BLS WF28 + BLS 2700next: integrated protection for welding and grinding
BLS WF28 welding mask is now available with the BLS WF-01 auto-darkening ADF filter and can be used with the BLS 2700next powered air-purifying respirator.
During welding operations, protecting the respiratory system, eyes and face at the same time can represent a real challenge.
A welding helmet can be bulky, a respirator may not have enough room to fit properly and, when different protective devices interfere with one another or are uncomfortable to wear, the risk increases that one of them may be used incorrectly or even removed during work.
This issue is particularly relevant considering that, since 2018, welding fumes have been classified by IARC as Group 1, “carcinogenic to humans.”
Protection must therefore be appropriate for the level of risk, while also being comfortable enough to encourage correct and continuous use.
A solution designed to work as one system
To address this need, BLS introduces BLS WF28, the welding helmet designed to be used exclusively in combination with the BLS 2700next powered air-purifying respirator.
The aim is to integrate three essential functions into a single solution:
- respiratory protection, provided by the assisted airflow of the PAPR;
- continuous eye protection, through the adjustable auto-darkening ADF filter;
- face protection during grinding operations, thanks to the flip-up optical unit and the visor underneath.
This allows the welder to move from one task to another while maintaining a protective system designed to work in a coordinated way.
Respiratory protection with BLS 2700next
The BLS 2700next powered air-purifying respirator supplies filtered air inside the helmet, helping to reduce the breathing effort associated with negative-pressure respirators and improving comfort during work.
Powered airflow is particularly important during prolonged tasks and in high-temperature environments, where comfort can directly affect the continuous use of PPE.
In the WF28 system, the airflow is also directed towards the visor to help prevent fogging, while avoiding a direct flow of air onto the operator’s face.
Adjustable DIN 9–13 auto-darkening ADF filter
One of the key elements of the BLS WF28 is the auto-darkening ADF filter, adjustable across DIN shade levels 9–13.
During welding, the filter automatically switches to the dark state to protect the eyes from the intense light radiation generated by the arc. Once welding stops, it returns to the light state, allowing the operator to maintain visibility without continuously lifting the helmet.
The adjustable shade level makes it possible to adapt the filter to different applications and user preferences.
The optical unit can also be flipped up once welding operations are completed, leaving the visor underneath available for grinding activities.
This configuration makes the device particularly practical in working environments where welding and grinding operations frequently alternate during the same task
Adjustable headgear for different head shapes
BLS WF28 is equipped with headgear designed to adapt to different head shapes.
The three adjustable support bands and ratchet adjustment system allow a precise fit for different head circumferences, while the pivoting nape support helps ensure visor stability during use.
The headgear also includes a replaceable front sweatband, designed to improve comfort and hygiene even during prolonged periods of use or in high-temperature environments.
A robust structure designed for comfort
The helmet is made of durable nylon and, despite incorporating the flip-up ADF optical unit, maintains a relatively low weight of 864 g.
The visor underneath can also be fitted with a dedicated grinding lens, increasing the versatility of the device across different work phases.
The integrated chin guard is made of flame-retardant material and can be replaced in case of wear.
Protection and comfort must work together
In welding applications, effective protection does not depend solely on the theoretical protection level provided by the device.
For PPE to be properly worn throughout the entire exposure period, it must be compatible with the other protective equipment required and provide a level of comfort suited to the actual working conditions.
With the BLS WF28 + BLS 2700next combination, BLS offers an integrated solution designed to combine respiratory, eye and face protection in a single system developed specifically for welding and grinding applications.
