According to the company, poor heat and moisture management can disrupt the efficient body cooling process, which is extremely important for firefighters. This may lead to the loss of concentration, fatigue, breathing difficulties and ultimately heat stroke.

TenCate Protective Fabrics has addressed these key functionalities by presenting several new and existing protective solutions, such as the TenCate Gemini XTL outer shell based on PBI fibres, and TenCate Millenia turnout gear based on PBO fibres.

Best performing outer shell

TenCate Gemini XTL protective fabric is made from PBI fibres and, the company reports, is the best performing PBI-based outer shell on the market.

Compared with other currently available fabrics made from PBI fibres, it is said to have the strongest tear and tensile strength and better resistance to abrasion – earning its top score for garment durability.

Strongest and lightest turnout gear systems

TenCate Millenia, which is based on PBO fibres, is also offered in a layered system and, according to TenCate, is the strongest and lightest system for firefighter turnout gear. Because of its weight and the highly breathable thermal moisture barrier that facilitates efficient sweat evaporation, it helps to prevent heat stress.

The moisture management and breathability of the TenCate systems is also said to offer excellent protection against water, chemical or blood splashes and blood-transmitted diseases. The TenCate thermal moisture barrier (ePTFE / PU-BI membrane) is based on a patented 3D technology that helps to realize improved insulation and reduced heat stress.

TenCate Protective Fabrics

TenCate Protective Fabrics is a leading producer of protective fabrics for the manufacture of safety wear. The company supplies garment makers with an extensive range of top-quality and technologically advanced fabrics.

Among those using the protection offered by  TenCate’s fabrics are firefighters in New York, Amsterdam and Montreal, workers in world leading oil and gas companies and utilities, and various NATO armies.

www.tencateprotectivefabrics.com