Shop Now

View Blog Topics

From Our Blog

Weldclass Nominate-a-Charity Draw 2024

Date: 19-12-2024

Weldclass Foundation

It's on again...
Do Mobile Welding Fume Extractors Work

Date: 27-05-2024

Weldclass Academy

The pros and cons of mobile fume extractors

Maintenance Schedule for PAPR Welding Helmets

Date: 14-01-1900

Weldclass Academy

This article outlines a recommended maintenance procedure for Weldclass respirator welding helmets. Although designed for the listed Weldclass models, many of these steps outline general best-practice upkeep that is applicable to most brands of PAPR helmets.

View the Weldclass PAPR Helmet Range

Helmet & Respirator Models

The information in this article applies to the following Weldclass helmet and respirator models:

Weldclass PROMAX 680R PAPR Welding Helmet
Weldclass PROMAX 850R PAPR Welding Helmet
Weldclass PROMAX R50 PAPR Respirator Unit

Maintenance Schedule

Following schedule applies to the respirator/blower unit, hose, and welding helmet.

Frequency	Action / Component	Details
Daily	Visual Inspection	Check for any visible damage or wear. Ensure all components are free from obstruction & debris.
	Filter Check	Inspect condition of main filter, pre-filter, and spark filter mesh. Replace if visibly clogged or damaged.
	Function Check	Complete pre-use checks as per below 'Pre-Use Check Proceedure' (or section 11b of user manual)
	Cover Lenses	Ensure all clear cover lenses are clean. Replace if scratched or damaged. Note: For correct & safe operation of helmet, front cover lens must not have any blemish / marks that obstruct the ‘view’ of the arc sensors on front of auto-darkening lens.
	Battery	Remove battery and inspect condition. If any signs of damage, dispose of and replace battery. Ensure battery is fully charged prior to work shift.
Weekly	Clean Exterior	Wipe with damp cloth to remove dust and debris
	Clean Internals	Check helmet headgear, air vent, & face seal and clean if required.
	Inspect Hose	If inside of hose is dirty, or there are leaks or creases, replace hose.
	Inspect Face Seal	Replace face seal if excessively dirty or damaged / torn / punctured.
	Inspect for Damage	Check all components for damage, cracks, wear, air leaks, etc. Replace parts as required
Annual	Replace Parts	Replace all filters, helmet face seal, hose, and hose cover, helmet cover lenses, helmet sweatband. Replacing respirator battery is recommended if estimated that charge cycles of existing battery has exceeded 500.
Annual	Update Records	Ensure maintenance tasks are logged. Review records to ensure compliance with this schedule.

Pre-Use Check Proceedure

Always complete the following daily pre-use check proceedure in a safe environment that is free of fumes and other hazards, prior to using respirator.

Ensure the battery is fully charged
Disconnect air hose from the blower unit
Insert flowmeter device into the blower unit and switch it on
Does ball indicator reach the minimum flow level marking?
Yes = unit is suitable for use
No = replace filters and test again*
Attach air hose to the blower unit & switch it on
Block end/outlet of hose by hand until alarm sounds, and blower vibrates*
Check that all components - including helmet, face seal, hose, blower unit, filters, battery – are in good condition and assembled correctly

*If minimum flow is not reached and/or the blower unit alarms do not function, the unit may have a malfunction and/or need to be replaced. Re-test with a new and fully charged battery with new filters. If malfunctions continue, contact your Weldclass distributor and/or replace the blower with a new unit.

General Care and Maintenance Guidelines

Cleaning

Clean with mild detergent and damp cloth. Do not use solvents or alcohol based cleaning agents. Do not immerse in water or spray directly with liquids.

Storage and Disposal

Store in a dry and clean area, with ambient temperature range -10 to 55^oC, and relatively humidity less than 90% RH.
If stored at temperatures below 0^oC, the battery must be allowed to warm up before charging or use, to achieve full capacity.
If respirator will not be used for a long time, the battery should be removed, fully charged, and stored separately.
At the end of the useful working life of the unit and/or battery, local / state / national regulations must be followed regarding disposal.