What shade number is for gas shielded arc welding (ferrous) electrodes of 1/16, 3/32, 1/8 and 5/32 inch diameter?

What shade number is for gas shielded arc welding (ferrous) electrodes of 1/16, 3/32, 1/8 and 5/32 inch diameter?

• A. 11
• B. 12
• C. 13
• D. 14

Answer: (B)

Gas shielded arc welding on ferrous electrodes in the 1/16 to 5/32 inch range requires a filter that protects eyes from the bright arc while still letting you see the weld puddle clearly. The standard recommendation for these sizes is a helmet shade of 12 because it provides enough protection for the typical currents used with these diameters without overly hindering visibility. If you used a larger diameter or higher current, you’d generally need a darker shade (13 or 14) to maintain eye safety; a lighter shade (like 11) would not offer enough protection for these welding conditions.

Gas shielded arc welding on ferrous electrodes in the 1/16 to 5/32 inch range requires a filter that protects eyes from the bright arc while still letting you see the weld puddle clearly. The standard recommendation for these sizes is a helmet shade of 12 because it provides enough protection for the typical currents used with these diameters without overly hindering visibility. If you used a larger diameter or higher current, you’d generally need a darker shade (13 or 14) to maintain eye safety; a lighter shade (like 11) would not offer enough protection for these welding conditions.