What is the typical filter lens shade for GTAW work?

• A. #10
• B. #12
• C. #14
• D. #9

Answer: (B)

GTAW exposes the eyes to a bright arc with UV/IR radiation, so the lens must darken enough to protect vision while still letting you see the weld clearly. For typical TIG welding, a filter shade around 12 provides reliable protection across common current ranges and still allows good visibility of the weld pool and filler metal. Lighter shades (like 9 or 10) are workable only at very low current, while a much darker shade (like 14) makes it hard to see weld details. So, the typical filter lens shade for GTAW work is 12.