Timothy Micek

Welding Gloves What Are They Made Of?



Posted: Thursday, March 31, 2011

by Timothy Micek
http://www.weldinghelmetboss.com

Welding gloves provide protection to the fingers, hands, wrists, and forearms from heat, sparks, electricity, molten metal, and flames during welding operations.During welding temperatures can get as high as 1005 degrees Fahrenheit. Because the heat is so extreme, the internal insulation of the glove is just as if not more important than the external lining of the glove; however, both the lining and the insulation vary the effectiveness of protection and overall comfort of the glove.

To find welding gloves that best fit you and your work it is important to be familiar with the materials and the available features. Remember price is not as important as safety, so fight the desire to settle for the least expensive pair. In this case it is okay to splurge since there is no such thing as overprotected as long as the gloves do not impede dexterity. There are numerous materials used to make flame retardant gloves, both natural and synthetic. The natural materials category consists of the following: cowhide, calfskin, pigskin, goatskin, deerskin, treated cotton, and wool. As evident, the natural materials are obtained from organic, or naturally produced, sources such as animals and earth-grown textiles. Synthetic materials on the other hand are from non-organic sources. A few examples of non-organic glove materials are: Kevlar threading, Nomex, rubber, and aluminized earth-grown textiles. Most synthetic welding gloves are a combination of both organic and non-organic materials.

Many beginning welders make the mistake of assuming that the materials from which welding gloves are made are more a matter of preference than performance, that is not the case. Each type and material base has its own specific properties and qualities that effect its performance and overall use. That being said, here are a few things to consider before purchasing new welding gloves. First of all, be sure to purchase gloves that are both heat resistant and flame retardant. If the gloves only offer one or the other then they are not satisfactory nor do they offer full protection. Also, make certain that the gloves you consider for purchase have been tested, approved, and meet all related testing standards and requirements. Do not be afraid to ask questions when shopping around to purchase new gloves. It is beneficial to know how durable the gloves are, how long the gloves will last is not terribly important. However, if you choose an expensive type of glove that will need to be replaced often, it might not be the most rational decision.

Although safety is more important than price, it is okay to be reasonable. On that note, be sure that the gloves are up to par in your work environment. Here are some more important nuances to consider. The gloves should allow full range of motion in the forearms, wrists, and fingers; gloves that fit poorly can be just as dangerous as gloves that are not properly insulated and can cause easily preventable accidents.

Last but not least, make sure you explore all of the glove options that are available and do not settle for less. Be sure to find a pair of gloves that both fit well, work well, and make you feel safe.
Timothy Micek is an equipment operator by trade and he has expert knowledge in welding safety gear.

He cares about welders and what they do because welders make up every part of the world we live in today and without welders their would be nothing being built.

Welders are the worlds most valuable resource according to Timothy Micek, that is why he has developed a website dedicated to the safety of our welders.

Welders can go to his website and find quality top of the line welding safety gear to protect themselves from all the welding processes in the industry today.

Visit his site at www.weldinghelmetboss.com and get your welding safety gear.
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