Welding shields darken automatically

Welding shield with auto-darkening filters allow the wearer to maintain good vision while being protected from harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation.

3M will be launching its latest Speedglas welding shield at the UK's MACH 2008 machine tool exhibition.

Made using world-class Swedish technology, the Speedglas range of shields is widely recognised as one of the best in the welding industry, said 3M.

Many welding and cutting procedures emit dangerous light radiation that can cause damage to the eyes.

The Speedglas auto-darkening filters mean that the wearer maintains good vision while being protected from harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation, but still provides constant visibility.

In addition to providing high levels of protection, comfort and visibility, 3M's range of Speedglas welding shields eliminate the neck-strain caused by 'nod-down' and increase the accuracy of electrode placement.

This improves the quality of the weld, reducing the need for grinding and rework.

The introduction of the new shield demonstrates 3M's commitment to the welding and manufacturing industries.

3M will have a significant presence at MACH 2008.

As well as showing the new welding helmet the company will be demonstrating its vast range of abrasive products and new air-powered abrasive tool line.

* 3M at MACH 2008, NEC, Birmingham, UK, April 21-25, Hall 4, Stand 4578.

* About 3M - 3M is a US$24.5 billion diversified technology company which, since 1902, has been creating innovative products that help make the world smarter, faster, healthier and safer.

Well known 3M brands include Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate and Scotch-Brite.

3M employs 75,000 people worldwide, producing thousands of innovative products for customers in dozens of diverse markets in some 200 countries.

Its 40+ technology platforms touch nearly every aspect of modern life - the company has applied its expertise in RFID technology to deliver biometric passports; it is using its understanding of the healthcare industry to provide hospitals with infection prevention and detection solutions; and its digital signage offerings are revolutionising the way businesses communicate with their customers, their employees and the general public.

The UK and Ireland is home to one of the largest 3M subsidiaries outside the USA, employing 3850 people across 17 locations, including 11 manufacturing sites.

Products manufactured in the UK include coated abrasives, respirators, adhesive tapes, industrial microbiology products, drug delivery systems, high-performance coatings, secure documents and passport scanners.

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