Protecting windows during welding

[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!