- Material: New-type fiber
- Features: Lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, and more
- Function: Thermal insulation, anti-static, flame retardant, and arc flash protection
- Applicable Environments: Electricians’ daily work, potential arc flash environments
- Precautions: Washing, repairing, etc.
arc flash suits provide flame retardant, heat insulation, anti-static, and arc flash explosion protection. They do not lose their effectiveness or deteriorate due to washing. When arc flash suits come into contact with arc flames or intense heat, the high-strength, low-extension bulletproof fibers inside the fabric automatically expand rapidly, thickening and increasing density, forming a protective barrier for the body.
Table of Contents
definition of arc flash
An arc flash occurs when a person is near high-voltage electricity but does not directly touch it. The body serves as a bridge, and an electrical fault occurs. arc flashes can generate temperatures up to 29,400\\u00b0C, approximately four times the surface temperature of the sun, causing violent explosions and electrical burns.
During an arc flash, enormous amounts of energy are released in a very short time. The metal conductive components vaporize, causing high-temperature steam and metal to expand rapidly. This rapid expansion of air and vaporized metal creates a loud explosion and generates significant pressure.
Main causes of arc flash
- Use of poor-quality conductive materials
- Damaged insulation (cracks, water ingress, aging, etc.)
- Accidental contact with live electrical parts
- Design or installation errors
- Lack of proper maintenance or care of electrical equipment
Types of arc flash injuries
Arc flash injuries can cause severe damage to the body. The most serious injury type is arc flash explosion burns, which are caused by heat radiation and molten metal splashes from the arc explosion.
- Arc Flash Explosion Burns: The most serious injury from an arc flash, primarily caused by heat radiation and flying molten metal.
- Burns from Suit Ignition: When clothing ignites due to the arc flash, leading to further burns or molten metal drips causing severe burns.
- Hearing Damage: The intense noise produced during an arc flash can cause hearing damage.
- Physical Damage: The shockwave from the arc flash can cause physical injury to the body.
arc flash injury Overview
Arc flash injuries are typically burns caused by intense heat generated by electrical arcs, even without direct contact with electrical currents. Unlike other electrical injuries caused by direct contact with live wires, arc flash injuries are harder to detect and prevent, making them more dangerous in the electrical industry. An arc flash often occurs without physical contact and is more easily overlooked, which makes it challenging to avoid. Direct contact with ignited clothing can cause serious burns or even death.
Measuring arc flash intensity
The intensity of an arc flash is measured by Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV), in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm\\u00b2). ATPV indicates the energy level at which the fabric of the suit will begin to fail and allow second-degree burns. 6 cal/cm\\u00b2 of exposure is equivalent to a lit cigarette on your fingertip for 1 second, and just 1-2 cal/cm\\u00b2 can cause second-degree burns to human skin.
According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), the arc flash injury severity is directly linked to the heat energy released during the arc explosion. Thus, ATPV values are used to determine the level of protection provided by the arc flash suits, where the higher the ATPV value, the better the arc flash protection.
arc flash suit Series
With the rapid development of industrial sectors, arc flash accidents have become more frequent, and the number of victims is increasing. By wearing protective suits with fire resistance and heat protection capabilities, workers increase their chances of survival and minimize injuries. Arc flash suits effectively address long-standing safety concerns for personnel in industries like electricity and chemicals, significantly reducing the likelihood of arc flash injuries.
Arc flash suits are designed for electrical power workers, whether full-time or part-time, working in daily operations or in environments where arc flashes are potential hazards. However, they are not suitable for environments containing hazardous chemicals, toxic gases, nuclear radiation, or other special conditions.
Technical Specifications
The protective capabilities of arc flash suits rely on the principles of arc discharge. The material used in the suit expands rapidly when exposed to heat or arc flames. This expansion increases the material’s density and thickness, forming a protective layer that minimizes heat transfer to the skin. The high-tech materials used in the suit are designed to be heat-resistant, flame-retardant, non-flammable, non-melting, and electrically insulating, providing permanent fire and insulation protection.
arc flash fabric typically expands and carbonizes during an arc flash, increasing its density and forming a barrier that protects the wearer from the intense heat.
Layer Structure
- Single-layer Suit Fabric: 5 cal (210g/m\\u00b2), 9.1 cal (230g/m\\u00b2), 15.5 cal (270g/m\\u00b2) permanent flame-resistant protective fabric.
- Double-layer Suit Fabric: 22 cal.
- Triple-layer Suit Fabric: 35 cal.
These materials are made from permanent flame-retardant fabrics, typically blended from aramid fibers and FR-VISCOSE, providing exceptional protection from arc flash hazards.
Major Categories
Arc flash suits come in two main categories:
- Arc Flash Operation Suit (Long Coat Style): Used for electrical operations, with protection level ATPV \\u2265 10 cal/cm\\u00b2.
- arc flash work Suit (Three-tight Jacket and Long Pants Style): Used as daily workwear, with protection level ATPV \\u2265 5 cal/cm\\u00b2.
Key Features
- Permanent Arc Flash Protection: The fiber material itself has inherent flame-retardant properties that provide long-lasting protection, even after multiple washes.
- No Continuous Burning or Dripping: The suit won\\u2019t ignite or continue burning when exposed to heat or flames.
- High Temperature Resistance: The fabric won\\u2019t deform or undergo other physical changes when exposed to high temperatures.
- High Tear Strength: Resistant to wear and tear, dimensionally stable, and not prone to tearing.
- Increased Protection: When exposed to arc flash, the suit’s fibers expand and become thicker, effectively blocking heat and minimizing injury.
Advantages
- Lightweight: Under the same protection level, the arc flash suit is lighter than other fire-resistant fabrics, offering more comfort.
- Breathable and Moisture-Wicking: Made with natural plant fibers, providing excellent breathability for comfort.
- Permanent Anti-static: Unlike other products that rely on conductive threads, this fabric incorporates conductive fibers for permanent anti-static performance.
- Health and Environmental Protection: The suit uses advanced materials that do not require chemical treatments, ensuring the safety of workers without exposure to allergens and harmful chemicals.
Special Environment Restrictions
This product should not be used alone in environments with chemical hazards, toxic gases, biological materials, radioactive substances, or other unknown gases or liquids. It must be used in conjunction with other professional protective suits in such environments.
Washing Instructions
- Dry the suit promptly after it becomes damp to prevent mold or bacterial growth.
- Wash immediately if stained to avoid contamination.
- Machine or hand wash using neutral detergents. Avoid washing with other clothing.
- Optimal water temperature for washing is between 40-48\\u00b0C.
- Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
Storage
Before storage, ensure the suit is clean and dry. Avoid storing in areas with corrosive materials. Keep it in a dry, well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight. Periodically air it out to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
