If you don’t care about being safe and the safety of others around you while welding, then you are an inconsiderate Putz and don’t want to read what I have to say here.
But if you’re interested in protecting the eyes of others with a small one-time investment of time and money, read on.
I mean making portable welding curtains out of conduit, square tubing, angle iron, or even PVC tubing. A portable welding helmet that will block UV light but still allow the welder to see potential hazards, such as a passing forklift or overhead crane getting too close.
Most welders make their portable welding helmet frames out of metal because… I mean… hello! they are welders.
The first thing to do is determine the size of the actual weld curtain. Then measure and cut the metal to make a rectangle that is slightly larger than the weld curtain without the frame.
Then cut 2 pieces for the stabilizer legs that support the welding shield bracket. Square the rectangle and weld. Next, attach the lower stabilizer legs. I have seen some portable welding helmets that have 4 large ball bearings welded together to allow them to slide easily on the floor. I have also seen very small wheels attached to allow for easy movement. But none of this is necessary. The portable welding blind will be very light and easy to move.
Once you’re done welding, get some zip ties and attach the weld curtain to the frame.
Are you ready. In less than an hour, you can easily complete a portable welding shield from start to finish.
Now that is a worthwhile investment.