Which Is Better for Laser Welding Eye Protection: OD5+ or OD6+?

Laser welding is a powerful and efficient process used in a wide range of industries including manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and electronics. However, the intense light and radiation produced during laser welding can be very harmful to the eyes. Therefore, choosing the right laser protective gear is not just a matter of personal preference, but a critical safety decision, and choosing the right laser safety glasses within that laser protective gear—especially the right optical density (OD) rating—is a top priority. But when comparing OD5+ and OD6+ laser safety glasses, which one offers better protection? Which one is right for your application? Let’s find out.

What does OD (optical density) mean in laser safety?

Optical density (OD) measures how well laser safety glasses attenuate or block laser light. The higher the OD value, the better the protection.

OD5+ means the glasses block 99.999% of laser light at a specific wavelength.

OD6+ means that the glasses block 99.9999% of lasers, and the attenuation rate is 10 times that of OD5+.

With each increase in the OD value, the protection performance is multiplied.

OD5+ vs. OD6+: What is the difference?

OD5+ laser safety glasses can block more than 99.999% of lasers, and the safety protection level is high. They are often used in low-power laser welding or indirect irradiation applications, and the price is relatively affordable.

OD6+ laser safety glasses have a laser blocking rate of up to 99.9999% and above, and the safety protection level is higher than that of OD5+ laser goggles. They are suitable for high-power laser welding, direct or close-range irradiation work environments, and the price will be slightly higher.

Key points:

If your welding process uses higher-power lasers (e.g. >100W) or involves direct line of sight irradiation, OD6+ is a safer choice.

Factors to consider when choosing OD5+ or OD6+

1. Laser wavelength

Please check the specific wavelength of your laser machine (e.g., 1064 nm for fiber lasers and 532 nm for green lasers). Choose glasses that match the OD rating and the correct wavelength range.

2. Laser power output

Low to medium power (<50W): OD5+ may be sufficient.

High power (≥100W): OD6+ or higher glasses are strongly recommended.

3. Working distance

The closer you are to the weld, the higher the risk of exposure. OD6+ is ideal for close work.

4. Comfort and visibility

While OD6+ provides better protection, it may slightly reduce the transmittance of visible light and darken the environment. Please choose a model that takes into account both safety and visibility based on your working environment.

Industry Recommendations

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z136) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other organizations recommend that laser safety glasses be selected based on verified laser flux (OD) and wavelength certifications. Be sure to choose a reputable brand with reliable test data.

Here are some reputable and internationally recognized brands with reliable test data

1. Honeywell: Honeywell is a US multinational company that specializes in the research, development, production and sales of industrial safety and personal protective equipment, including laser protective glasses.

2. Laser Safety Industries: Laser Safety Industries is a professional manufacturer of laser safety and protective equipment headquartered in the United States, with products covering the world.

3. NolR Laser Company: NoIR Laser Company is a US manufacturer of laser protective glasses, and its products are suitable for medical, industrial, scientific research and other fields.

4. LaserPair Co., Limited: LaserPair is a well-known laser safety glasses brand from China. Its products have passed the authoritative certification of the German national laboratory DIN CERTCO and are widely used in laser medical, laser dentistry, laser handheld welding and other fields.

5.Univet: Univet is an Italian manufacturer of laser safety equipment, including laser safety glasses, laser protective masks, etc.

Conclusion: OD6+ is safer - but choose according to your needs

Both OD5+ and OD6+ laser safety glasses are very effective. However:

If you are specifically using medium-power lasers and there is indirect exposure, choose OD5+.

But if you are using high-power lasers, direct line of sight, or need additional protection, choose OD6+.

Ultimately, the right OD level ensures that your eyes are protected from irreversible damage.