Welding Gloves, What Are They made Of?

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.