When it comes to arc flash protection, you will discover a world of options and wording that will leave you scratching your head. This may be fine and dandy when it comes to your everyday garments, but when you life could depend on you knowing the difference between flame retardant cotton and flame retardant nylon, you need to know the difference. Having this knowledge will make your life better and safer. However, you will also find that this little bit of knowledge will also save you considerable time and money.
Let’s take a look at a few types of fabrics and materials you will find in today’s bustling market. Each fabric or material has its place, but knowing which is best for your arc flash protection garments is going to serve you well.
100% cotton has been utilized for centuries as PPE or personal protection equipment. Once upon a time, not too long ago, 100% cotton was considered was considered the best because it was much safer than polyester. While this is accurate, today, we know that if you want to have fuel for that explosive energy, then you will look at that 100% cotton. Instead of virgin cotton, today the experts utilize flame retardant properties in the development and creation of PPE.
There is 100% cotton that has been treated with a flame retardant. You will find a variety of names for this treated cotton fabric. However, there is also another option. There are inherently flame resistant fabrics on the market today that provide the protective properties necessary for explosive energy. You will find that whichever one you choose will have the rating it needs to fit within the category you need to insure your safety and the safety of those you work around.
Many manufacturers are also using 12% nylon and 88% cotton that has been treated in flame retardant. This offers protective properties, but nylon has always been considered a negative property when it comes to arcing energy. However, there is an interesting chemistry that happens. If you are wearing this and experience arcing energy, the nylon will actually melt. However, you will find that the gaps in the basic design of the cotton is filled with this nylon making a solid bond that actually promotes even more arc flash protection.
When it comes to this type of apparel, you will want to insure that you understand the life of your garment before a purchase. You will find that the manufacturer will promise a garment is good for so many washes. For instance, you may find that the flame resistant shirt offers a rating of 2. However, after 50-70 washes, you will not be able to utilize that garment again if you use a home washing. Maybe that will be reduced for washing industrially to between 30-40 washes. Recognize beforehand what your garment means to you and your budget.
There are a variety of materials used in the creation of your arc flash protection apparel. Knowing what each fabric offers and how long it will last is a good first step to the purchase of the protective apparel you need for your often hazardous career.
Max Johnson of The Uniform Connection. Click for more Arc Flash Protection.
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