The main difference between Treated Arc FR and Inherent Arc FR Fabrics is the process that is used at the final stage in order to make the product flame resistant.
Want more information on fr treatment for fabric? Feel free to contact us.
But which type of fabric should you opt for given your working environment?
When it comes to choosing protective clothing to work in an electrical environment, it’s important that you consider the fabric that you are choosing as this can have an impact on how effective they are at keeping you safe.
Inherent and treated are two terms that are most frequently used to distinguish between fire resistant fabrics.
What are Treated Fabrics?
Treated FR fabrics undergo a process during manufacturing that adds flame resistance onto the fabric fibres. Cotton fabric is treated by being given a flame resistant chemical application after it is woven together.
This treatment will chemically change the fabric and give it a flame resistant finish for a limited number of washes.
What are Inherent Fabrics?
Unlike treated fabrics, inherent fabrics do not have to undergo any type of process in order to make them flame resistant and are instead composed of fibres that are already innately flame resistant.
These properties cannot be diminished through use or laundering, meaning that the product will remain effective and wearable for as long as the user requires it.
Which fabric is more effective?
Both of these fabrics offer protection against the dangers of working as an electrical engineer, but inherent fabrics will score higher in terms of the longevity of garments, which is ultimately what matters the most when you are choosing work apparel.
This gives peace of mind knowing that once the has been issued to the wearer that regardless of how many washes or how old the clothing is, it still gives the same level of protection as the first day it was worn.
This will reduce the need to replace items and will ensure that workers always remain safe. You should always be sure to following laundering instructions and avoid using bleach, fabric softener or starch to clean your protective garments, as this can mask the fire-resistant properties of the clothing. Learn more about caring for and washing your arc flash clothing here.
Are you interested in learning more about Fire Resistant Fabrics Industry? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Work on live electricity? Take a look now at our Inherent Arc Flash Clothing here.
When you are active in selecting protective clothing for areas with risks like molten metals, radiant heat and electric arc (ARC), then you most probably have heard of the terms FR treated and inherent FR. But what is the actual difference between the two and why is one cheaper than the other? With the explanation below, we hope to clarify the differences and help you make better choices in the future.
Inherent FR
Inherent literally means “existing as a natural or basic part of something”. A nice synonym for inherent is intrinsic. So whenever you come across an inherent FR fabric, it indicates that at least one of the fibers used in that fabric has its own FR properties.
The most common FR fibers used in protective clothing are modacrylics and aramids. These fibers provide excellent protection against flames and heat. The higher the performance level of the fiber, the lower the weight you need to achieve a certain level of protection. And as a wearer, we generally prefer lightweight clothing because it’s much more breathable and thus comfortable than heavier clothing.
FR Treated
FR treated fabrics are based on cotton, blended with polyester, para-aramid or polyamide. These fabrics get their FR property from the chemical treatment that is applied to the fabric. This chemical treatment is executed in such a way that it fully penetrates the fiber and as such is bonded throughout the entire fabric. As a result of this treatment, the fabric becomes flame retardant and keeps this property during the lifetime of the garment.
What to choose when?
Unfortunately, there is no straight answer to this question. It mostly depends on the industry and the preferences of the users. However, to help you choose between the two, we have listed some typical pros and cons for each below:
-
FR Treated
- PROS: very good protection against molten metal, good protection against heat and ARC, relatively cheap, good value for money in dirty environments where expected lifespan is not very long.
- CONS: wash fastness is typically not very good (pale look after several washes), to achieve similar FR properties as inherent FR the fabrics typically become a bit heavier and therefore tend to be a bit less comfortable.
-
Inherent FR
- PROS: excellent heat and ARC protection, excellent colour fastness even after numerous washings hence good cost in use performance, typically lighter weight solutions with excellent comfort levels, typically used in less dirty environments where the corporate look is also important.
- CONS: limited protection against molten metal splash, typically a more expensive fabric than FR treated.
In general, it all comes down to your own needs and preferences. As these are often important decisions, we are more than happy to provide you with the right advice.
Aside from the type of FR fabric, which are the other industry trends you need to consider?
Selecting your new protective clothing is one of the most essential factors to create the best possible safety culture in your company. By reading this blog, you’re exploring the possibilities of certain fabric types. With the current technological progress that we are experiencing in the industry, it is necessary that you stay up to date. Do you want to learn more about fiber and fabric trends? Download our whitepaper and discover 6 of the newest industry trends in protective clothing.
Read our trend report
Learn about 6 important industry trends and improve the safety and comfort of your protective clothing:
The company is the world’s best Fireproof Fabric Suppliers supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.