Electrical Hazards vs. Arc Flash Protection from DuPont
Arc flash is a potentially lethal hazard that some professionals face every day. Garments made of DuPont™ Nomex® fibre help companies protect their employees – and their business – effectively.
An electric arc is a continuous electric discharge of high current between conductors, generating very bright light and intensive heat. The arc blast presents a very serious hazard (potentially fatal) because of the risk of severe burn injuries caused by intensive heat.
DuPont™ Nomex® fibre is inherently flame-resistant, will not melt or drip, and does not support combustion in the air, thus providing excellent arc flash protection. And because the protection is woven right into Nomex® garments, it cannot wear off of wash out over time.
When exposed to the intense heat typical of electric arc, Nomex® fibre carbonises and thickens. This increases the protective barrier between the heat source and the wearer’s skin and helps minimise burn injury.
As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation, we continue to develop and improve the arc flash protective properties of Nomex® fabrics. At our European Technical Centre in Switzerland, the DuPont™ Arc-Man® test simulates electric arc incidents in a controlled environment. This enables manufacturers to assess and compare the performance of their different fabrics and garments under highly demanding conditions.
To reinforce the work that DuPont is doing in the field of electric arc flash protection, a team of experts, including DuPont Engineering Technology, DuPont Personal Protection, and external independent experts, has developed the DuPont™ Arc-Guide. This innovative approach helps companies understand, assess and reduce the severities and consequences of electrical arc hazards.
DUPONT PRODUCTS & SERVICES
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Arc-Guide
The DuPont™ Arc-Guide helps companies understand and manage an electrical hazard that is deadly, yet gets frequently overlooked.
Arc-Man® Test
Nomex® Thermal Protection for Industrial Workers
DUPONT BRAND OFFERINGS
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Nomex® Brand
Whenever thermal protection is needed, only one fiber comes to mind — Nomex®. For over 40 years, workers across industries have relied on the inherently flame-resistant properties of Nomex® to help keep them safe from the hazards they face on the job.
INFORMATION & IDEAS
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Nomex® for Heat Stress Protection
Heat stress is a dangerous condition in any situation, but for firefighters it can be especially life threatening. In fact, heat stress is the number-one cause of casualties among firefighters. Nomex® fibre helps reduce heat stress due to its higher air permeability.
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Nomex® for Lower Wear-Life Cost
Today’s firefighters need to be able to optimise budget vs. performance, without compromising on safety. For decades DuPont™ Nomex® fibre has demonstrated lasting protective performance, while helping to minimise repair and maintenance costs.
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Nomex® for Performance Durability
Garments made of Nomex® fibre have helped protect firefighters for decades. Continuous exhaustive testing proves that they excel in the long-term retention of their heat and flame protective qualities.