Expanding its arc rated PYRAD® Portfolio, Gore-Tex Professional has developed a technical fusion of stretch foul weather arc rated Class 2 protection with outstanding wearer comfort and multi-norm compliance.
The new technology is the result of intensive research and development. It combines GORE-TEX Professional’s proprietary technologies with different engineering techniques. The resulting arc-rated Class 2 fabric technology has a unique stretch attribute which provides electrical workers with an extremely comfortable, easy to wear and lightweight solution to arc-rated foul weather protection.
Miguel Calixto, product specialist at GORE-TEX Professional comments: “The new arc rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® Stretch fabric technology has been developed with real-work situations and end user needs in mind and I believe we are setting new standards in arc rated multi-norm protective apparel, combined with lightweight stretch wearer comfort.”
This multi-norm compliance fabric technology stands far above other existing arc-rated hardshell rainwear solutions, as typically norm-compliant PPE for electrical workers is heavy and bulky, restricts freedom of movement and absorbs water. This new fabric technology is remarkably different because it has 50% more stretch than other existing products available. It is waterproof, lightweight, flexible, and noticeably soft and comfortable to wear. Unlike other fabrics which serve this industry to protect workers against the risk of an accidental arc, it is also remarkably quieter when worn.
Arc Rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® Stretch Jackets and Trousers deliver flexible comfort and improved overall fit and are 45% lighter than other Class 2 arc protection rainwear. Workers can easily bend, kneel, climb, and stretch without any restriction of movement thanks to the innovative new GORE-TEX PYRAD® stretch technology.
The fabric consists of 2-layers in combination with a flame-resistant liner, an outer shell fabric and an advanced elastic ePTFE membrane, coupled with the protective GORE-TEX PYRAD® fabric technology. Its increased stretch is the result of the elasticity of the laminate, which is determined and conforms to EN ISO 20932-1:2020 + A1:2021. At a load of 30N the new GORE-TEX PYRAD® stretch laminate achieves an elongation of more than 12% in warp direction. It recovers over 85% of its original shape after being stretched. Typically conventional, non-elastic fabrics stretch less than 5% and recovery back to its former shape is poor. The elastic properties are durable and will not deteriorate in use or when laundered.
New GORE-TEX PYRAD® Stretch Jackets and Trousers are ergonomically designed to support natural freedom of movement without constricting the wearer. Arc Rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® garments are durably waterproof and resistant to common hazardous liquids. They totally block out the wind, even in the stormiest conditions, which eliminates any wind chill factor and helps to maintain a comfortable wearing temperature. Additional wearer comfort is achieved because jackets and trousers engineered with GORE-TEX PYRAD® stretch technology deliver a 25% increase in breathability. This helps to prevent a buildup of moisture on the inside of the garments.
How does the GORE-TEX PYRAD® fabric technology work?
During an arc flash exposure, GORE-TEX PYRAD® fabric technology (countless reactive dots) rapidly reacts to the heat even before the outer shell starts to burn. The reaction of the dots causes them to expand by a magnitude of more than 10x higher than its original size and form a stable insulating protective shell of carbonaceous char with the face fabric (without melting or dripping) stopping flame propagation, blocking convective and radiant heat from the arc flash exposure, and reducing the heat transfer to wearers skin. In addition, the physical integrity of the laminate is maintained after heat and flame exposure, which means no break or hole formation.
About Gore
W.L. Gore & Associates is a global materials science company dedicated to transforming industries and improving lives. Since 1958, Gore has solved complex technical challenges in demanding environments — from outer space to the world’s highest peaks to the inner workings of the human body. With more than 12,000 Associates and a strong, team-oriented culture, Gore generates annual revenues of $4.5 billion. www.gore.com
