AWS F2.3M

This standard for welding curtains and screens shall apply toall wielding and cutting operations  or processes whereharmful radiation (see Section 4) is emitted, and excludes thosesources that emit X-rays, gamma-rays, particulate radiation (suchas alpha and beta radiation), laser light or electron beams. Thisstandard makes use of the International System of Units (SI).

Purpose. The purpose of this standard is toprovide reasonable and adequate means, ways, and methods for thetesting, selection, and safe use of transparent welding curtainsand screens. In order to carry this out, the function of thesetransparent welding curtains and screens needs to be understoodclearly. These devices are designed to provide outside viewers, atsome distance from the welding arc or operation, a safe view of theoperation and operator. Transparent welding curtains and screensare not meant to replace a welding filter plate or to provide aclose-up view of the welding operation. It is recommended that thetransparent welding curtain or screen be at least 1 meter from thearc or operation. In establishing safety requirements, the hazardsfor a viewer at least 1 meter away were considered, with an 8 hourviewing time. In addition, a worst-case welding arc for ultravioletand blue light emission was used (GMAW on aluminum with an argonshield gas). This represents a conservative approach for eyesafety.

Because of this philosophy, curtain or screen grades were notreferenced to the welding or cutting operation. The user is free tochoose a device of whatever level of visible light transmission forthe particular situation. Consequently, all devices must provide aminimally adequate level of ultraviolet and blue light attenuation.For example, if a low level of glare attenuation is desired, alight shade curtain can be selected, and the user would be assuredof adequate levels of attenuation of ultraviolet and blue lightradiation.

Edition:

2

Published:

01/01/2011

ANSI:

ANSI Approved

Number of Pages:

26

File Size:

1 file , 140 KB