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Ergonomics
Glovebox ergonomics is always a challenge. Often Arc viewing camera systems are commercially available
gloveport height is set for material handling operations in a and offer good magnification, good weld puddle visibility,
glovebox which is not ideal for welding. For manual welding, and some post weld inspection options. Camera systems
operators typically prefer to be a little elevated in a posture to are more common but not exclusive to automated weld
weld the flat position and looking down on the weld puddle. systems. There is a price tag associated with quality arc
Gloveboxes designed specifically for welding operations may viewing systems, and the addition of cameras to the weld
want to consider raising the gloveport height to accommodate head generally adds to the clutter. The cost of the cameras
their process. Protective over-gloves are almost always can be difficult to swallow, but most welders who use the
needed for manual welding and affect the dexterity of the camera systems grow to love them and will not give them up.
operator. The key to manual welding is ensuring that the
operator has a comfortable posture and reasonable reach in Conclusions
order to perform a smooth continuous weld bead. Running a welding process within a glovebox has the
advantages of a clean, inert, and moisture free environment.
Visibility The glovebox also offers the containment and personnel

Perhaps the single most difficult challenge when welding protection that many in the nuclear industry need. The
in a glovebox is visibility. The challenge is not unique to nature of welding equipment typically brings sharps hazards
welding, but welding does seem to amplify the issue. The into the glovebox which should be addressed. Careful
constraints on glovebox geometry, size and location of feedthrough planning and meticulous grounding will avoid
windows, and location of gloveports all play a role in weld costly and frustrating mistakes. Ergonomics and Visibility
puddle visibility. Improved visibility can come from clever can be a challenge for many glovebox applications and
fixturing design and it is common to see custom arc view welding is no exception. Careful planning of visibility and arc
shaded glass or auto darkening lenses used as part of the viewing can make the most challenging weld look easy. v
glovebox or weld fixturing.

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