Free skull cap for every reader and the chance to win a welding helmet
July 16th 2007

To mark the launch of its Speedglas SL Welding Shield with Auto Darkening Filter - its lightest welding shield ever, 3M is offering all IP&E enews readers a free skull cap and the chance to win a welding helmet*, just register your details at click here and quote reference IPE.

3M, the diversified technology company, has launched what it believes to be one of the world’s lightest auto-darkening welding shields, weighing in at just 360 grams.

Combining the performance of the 3M Speedglas Auto Darkening Shield with new, lightweight liquid crystal cell technology, the new 3M Speedglas SL (super-light) Welding Shield with Auto Darkening Filter (ADF) incorporates a number of new features that optimise its comfort, visibility, protection and durability.

The latest addition to the range is the result of an ongoing dialogue between 3M and its customers. Mike Cottam, Marketing Executive for 3M’s Occupational Health and Environmental Safety Group, explains:

“Through 3M’s drive to develop application-specific solutions that can further reduce occupational accidents and injuries, we work closely with our customers to improve our product offerings. A recent survey by 3M highlighted that the top priority for many of our arc-welding customers was a welding shield with lighter weight. To improve wearer acceptance and thus increase wear time, 3M resolved to create a product that would match the performance and strength of the 3M Speedglas Welding Shield, but with lighter weight and increased comfort.”

The product is therefore particularly suited to the automotive industry and occasional welders where lightweight PPE is key.

Features and benefits

• The 50% lighter 3M Speedglas SL filter and a new manufacturing technique have resulted in a shield that is at least 26% lighter overall than other models.

• A versatile headband uses a pattern of holes that enables it to be breathable and conform to different shaped and sized faces and heads.

• The shield can be tilted to set a preferred viewing angle and set closer or further away from the face to accommodate different sized noses, safety glasses and/or 3M respirators.

• The welding filter features 4 user-selectable sensitivity settings and 5 dark state levels (8-12)

• The tough, non-absorbent shield retains its strength in high humidity

• A new motion detector automatically turns the filter on and off as the welder picks up or sets down the shield.

• The outer protection plate can be quickly removed and replaced.

The new Speedglas SL filter from 3M can be used with most arc welding processes such as MMA, MIG/MAG, TIG and plasma welding. The filter is particularly appropriate for low-to-moderate amperage welding (0.1 to 250amps).

3M offers a range of 3M Speedglas auto-darkening filters (ADFs) that turn dark as an arc is struck, and light again after the arc stops. The 3M Speedglas SL Welding Shield with ADF conforms to European Standard EN 379 (eye protection for welders) and is CE marked. As a leading supplier of occupational safety products, 3M can offer advice and guidance on legislative issues and the correct specification and use of many types of PPE in the workplace.

For further information, just  click here.

* One free skullcap per company, while stocks last. Entry for the prize draw has been extended until the 31st August. The winner of the 3M Speedglas SL Welding Shield with Auto Darkening Filter will be notified on 31st August.

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