Protecting windows during welding

[backformore]

How have folks protected windows from welding spatter while installing cages? (I know removing would work, but trying to avoid that).

Thanks. Rory

[Z3_GoCar]

Preface that I'm not a cage builder. But, I have done a lot of welding close to things that need protection so I do have experience with this. Buy one of those kevlar welding blankets at your welding supply.

[jimbbski]

If it's a quick welding job I use wet cardboard but if it's going to take a while then a proper welding blanket is advised.

[backformore]

Thanks. Any suggestions on attaching/supporting the welding blanket over the window/windshield? Although as I think about it, you probably just hang it as a "curtain" between the welding and the window in question.

On a related note, how far away does one have to protect? Or to put it another way, how far will spatter fly?

Thanks again.
Rory

[joeg]

3M™ Welding and Spark Deflection Paper, 05916

[backformore]

where does one get that? Welding supply store perhaps?

[joeg]

Online; try Eastwood

[Matt93SE]

Eastwood has it listed, summit does not. (I thought Summit bought Eastwood and sold everything on summit's site as well?)

It's expensive, but it's the right thing to use for glass and paint. I REALLY wish I had. also note you need it when grinding too. I've destroyed several windows just grinding in the area (some VERY hard to replace- like a 63 1/2 Galaxie windshield!)..
When arc and MIG welding, a couple feet horizontal clearance is about all you need. If TIG, it's not really an issue since you shouldn't have metal flying around.

When grinding, any exposed glass within 10-15 ft needs to be covered since those damn sparks fly everywhere and in every direction!

[backformore]

Thanks for the replies. Unfortunately I think I've discovered the grinding part a little too late. Not too much, but certainly more than I wanted.

I remembered that I have some welding shield material that I bought years ago. It is essentially translucent plastic designed to be used as a welding curtain. It is not as easy to apply as the 3M material would be, but I've been able to attach it with zip ties and duct tape and it seems to be doing the job. I did some testing with it welding right next to it and even over it, and nothing got through it. It is also pretty expensive but I had it on hand so it's "free".

[Matt93SE]

That's the best kind then! have fun getting off the duct tape residue, but that's still better than replacing your windshield.

[backformore]

I've actually gotten pretty lucky Matt. The duct tape I'm using seems to hold well for a day or two and then sorta loses its adhesion and falls off the glass. I have to reapply tape occasionally but no sticky residue!

[Matt93SE]

Yeah I'll vote for that.

The newer tapes are much better about that, and 3M offers a couple of forumations in their industrial line that's supposed to hold like the good ol' stuff, but still be a clean-release for 6 months, even heat & UV stabilized so it doesn't get gooey when left in the sun.

It's also $40 a roll!!!