Welding gloves play an essential role when you are carrying out hot works.

In this article, we’ll let you know everything that you need to know about welding gloves.

Some Basic Safety Rules

Before we start though, here are some facts that you really do need to know when it comes to choosing the right welding glove for you.

1. There are different gloves for different tasks
2. Carrying out risk assessments is essential
3. Welding gloves will only work if you wear them correctly
4. One size doesn’t fit all

With many burns and cuts to welder’s hands caused by wearing the wrong gloves, or by taking them off; these points are essential. Because of this, the best type of welding gloves are the ones that you can leave on and that are comfortable to wear.

How Often Should Your Welding Gloves Be Changed?

It is important that you know exactly when you should be replacing your welding gloves.

If they are damaged in any way, have cutes, holes, or are in any way compromised, then it is not worth the risk to continue using them. Buy a new pair straight away.

Make Sure Your Welding Gloves Are Suitable For The Task

Welding gloves come in several different designs, materials, and styles. The gloves that you use for welding must meet the required level and they should be tested and certified.

Before gloves are allowed to be sold as welding gloves they need to meet rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand everything that will get thrown their way.

Not only should your welding gloves protect your hands, but they should also cover your wrists.

You should also think about what type of welding you’re doing. Are you looking to carry out tack, long weld, or both? Will you be using a MIG, TIG, or a stick?

Where will the welding be done? Indoors is completely different to outdoors when you’re welding.

What Are Good Welding Gloves Made Of?

For stick welding, the following applies:

• ● When welding at 90 amps and above, you’ll need kevlar thread.
• ● For over 125 amps, you should have cotton insulation as well
• ● Once you get to over 250 amps, you should have cotton and foam inside.
• ● Gloves used above 500 amps should backhand pad or reflective material on the back of the hand

One of the best materials for welding gloves is leather, however, the grade and the cut of the leather are significant. For gloves being used with TIG and MIG welders, you should look at pigskin leather, goatskin leather, or the top grain cowhide.

It isn’t just the exterior of the glove that matters, the interiors are essential too. If you’re welding outdoors in colder conditions, look for a cotton or wool lining.

Fits Like A Glove

Finally, make sure that your glove fits you well. Not only will you struggle to get the bead right with awkward, ill-fitting gloves, but you could also be putting yourself at serious risk.

Try on a few, making sure that you try moving your hands and fingers around as much as possible so ensure they’re comfy.