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Fibres/​Yarns/​Fabrics

TenCate to introduce military combat fabrics for firefighter turnout gear

These new fabrics for firefighter turnout gear use TenCate Coolderm technology to provide better insulation and protection from heat.

29th May 2015

Innovation in Textiles
 |  Nijverdal

Protective, Clothing/​Footwear

The introduction of the new TenCate Defender M thermal barriers and liners with TenCate Coolderm technology widens the options for complete layered systems for firefighter turnout gear. © TenCateTenCate Protective Fabrics in Europe is launching new thermal barrier and liner fabrics for use in firefighting turnout gear, based on the TenCate Defender M flame-resistant fabrics already used for military combat uniforms.

These new fabrics for firefighter turnout gear use TenCate Coolderm technology to provide better insulation and protection from heat while offering an evaporative cooling effect to keep the skin cooler and drier. This is said to contribute to a reduction in the heat stress suffered by firefighters and further increase their overall safety.

Advanced layered systems

The company will introduce the new fabrics at the forthcoming Interschutz 2015 international trade fair that takes place in Hannover, Germany, next month.

The introduction of these new TenCate Defender M thermal barriers and liners with TenCate Coolderm technology widens the options for complete layered systems for firefighter turnout gear, the company reports. Together with TenCate's extremely strong and light outer shell fabrics these combinations are said to make the most advanced layered systems for firefighters available on the market.

Heat stress reduction

The flame-resistant fabric technology was originally developed for the US Army in TenCate Defender M. Currently it protects military personnel in combat uniforms in various countries. “We have taken our successful flame-resistant fabric technology and used it to develop innovative new thermal barriers and liners for firefighter turnout gear. Active moisture-wicking enables body temperature to be better regulated,” explained Ralf Schellen, Director Market Sector at TenCate Protective Fabrics in Europe.

By dispersing sweat to a wider area on the fabrics's surface, evaporation is expedited. Allowing the moisture to pass rapidly through the fabric and away from the skin, it regulates the body temperature.

“The inherently flame-resistant fibres, inherently wicking properties and excellent breathability of TenCate Coolderm technology allows fabrics to be softer and cooler without any harsh chemical treatments or finishes, providing enhanced comfort and safety for firefighters,” said Ralf Schellen.

www.tencateprotectivefabrics.com

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