Welders at Groningen shipyard get scoop of new welding helmet

The worldwide first is for shipbuilder GS Yard in Groningen. They received the very first copy of the latest Multi Vision welding helmet with the Multi C'Air system on June 3. Sober as they are, they don't immediately get up on their feet at a product innovation. A little later, when an experienced welder shows immediate enthusiasm for the improved true color cassette, it does not leave even those cool 'Grunningers' unmoved.

Welding is 'core business' at the Groningen shipyard that specializes in river vessels up to a maximum length of 135 m. Ships that prove their qualities in shallow water, but that also set sail for English ports without any problems. Every year, ten new ships slide into the Winschoterdiep from the longitudinal slipway. They also rebuild ships. With lighter constructions they increase cargo capacity and speed while reducing fuel consumption.

Satisfaction

The yard employs about 180 men and at least a third of them do welding work. "Multi Vision has long been the regular welding helmet that people are always satisfied with," Gerrit Wever, responsible at GS Yard for purchasing and technical service, let us know. Nevertheless, he is looking with great interest at the new one that the representative of technical wholesaler Delftechniek is coming to offer. That is the Multi Vision Hybrid, which is equipped with a flip-up window. Multi Vision helmets are developed and released by Vlamboog. The existing series has been around for nearly 25 years. The new series (in addition to the Hybrid, there is also the Multi Vision Grind, without a flip-up window) has been improved on many fronts. For example, the viewing window has become no less 16% larger (from 44 x 98 mm to 50 x 100 mm). Furthermore, the shape has been tinkered with for better conduction of welding fumes past the helmet.

New air systems

The concept for the new helmet had been on the drawing board for some time and gained momentum in 2016. New air systems were also developed with the helmet. The Multi C'Air III filters the air supply to the helmet. The battery lasts 8 hours and vibration and sound signals alert the user when the filters become saturated. In addition, a Heavy Duty battery is available for up to 12 hours of operating time. Multi C'Air Flow is a certified system where overpressure is created inside the helmet via connection to a compressor or air conduction system. The helmets offer TH2 degree of protection which is the second highest class. Sales Director Cornelis Alderlieste of Vlamboog is above all pleased with the fact that despite the greatly improved quality, the price of the helmet has remained extremely competitive. The Multi Vision Grind has a recommended retail price of €120 and that of the Multi Vision Hybrid is €154. The helmets are largely produced abroad but assembled in the Netherlands. The new line will be available starting in July.

Better view of weld pool

As a spot is sought in the shipyard to capture the handing over of the first helmet in a photo, the welders look on from a distance with eager anticipation. The new helmet with its bright orange print stands out. After the photo opportunity, Wever puts it to the test and asks an experienced welder if he would like to try on the helmet. He didn't hesitate for a moment, strapped on the Air System, put on the helmet and went to work. After just a few minutes, he has his verdict. He is especially impressed with the improved true color cassette. "In my current helmet, the image is greenish. In this new helmet it is bright blue. That gives an even better view of the weld pool, so you can weld even more precisely."