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RPE Air Fed Helmets

RPE Air Fed Helmets FAQs

Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing powered air respirator helmets for welding and grinding.

What is an RPE air fed helmet package?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

It is a welding or grinding helmet combined with a powered air unit worn on a belt. The unit draws in air through filters, and a hose carries it to the helmet so the wearer breathes filtered air rather than the fume around them.

RPE stands for respiratory protective equipment. Packages bring the helmet, blower, filters, hose and battery together so they are designed to work as a set.

Does source extraction make this unnecessary?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Not always. Extraction at the weld reduces fume in the workshop, but it may not remove all of it from the welder's breathing zone. Where fume exposure cannot be adequately controlled by extraction alone, or in confined or awkward positions, respiratory protection is used as well.

Your risk assessment decides, and RPE is generally the last line of defence after other controls.

How does a powered unit differ from a simple disposable mask?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

A powered unit moves filtered air to the wearer, so breathing is easier, the air is cooler and there is a positive flow inside the helmet. A disposable mask relies on the wearer drawing air through the filter, which becomes tiring over a shift.

Powered units also avoid the need to fit a seal tightly to the face in the same way as a tight-fitting mask, though the helmet still needs to be worn correctly.

Which filters are needed for welding?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Welding fume is mostly fine particles, so a particle filter of a suitable class is needed. If the work also gives off gases or vapours, for example from some coatings, cleaning products or processes, a different or combination filter may be needed.

Filters are marked with their type and class. Check the data plate and manual for your own unit, use only the filters it lists, and let your risk assessment decide which class is right for the work you do.

How do I know the airflow is correct?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Powered units have a flow check or indicator, and an alarm if the flow drops. Follow the manual for the test method and the minimum flow required, and test it before each shift.

Low flow can come from a blocked filter, a flat battery, a kinked hose or a damaged seal. Stop welding and fix the cause before continuing.

How long will the battery last and how do I look after it?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Battery life depends on the battery, the filters fitted, the airflow setting and the temperature, and decreases as the battery ages. The manual gives typical run times.

Charge it fully before use, use only the charger supplied, store it as recommended and replace it when run times drop noticeably.