TenCate Protective Fabrics Americas, a leader in the field of inherently flame-resistant (FR) fabrics, is expanding its TenCate Tecasafe Plus product portfolio with the introduction of TenCate Tecasafe Plus 580, a lighter weight option for industrial safety apparel.

 “Since its initial introduction three years ago, TenCate Tecasafe Plus has become a force in the industrial flame-resistant fabric market. And now its reach is expanding. Engineered as a lighter weight option for industrial workers, electrical linemen and petroleum and gas workers, the new TenCate Tecasafe Plus 580 delivers durability, safety and, above all, comfort,” says Elliad Granger, Director of Marketing at TenCate Protective Fabrics Americas.

At 5.8 ounces per square yard, TenCate Tecasafe Plus 580 is said to be ideal for shirts and coveralls and the innovative cellulosic blend is said to provide comfort superior to traditional FR fabric options.

“TenCate Tecasafe Plus 580 combines its soft hand feel with excellent moisture management to keep the wearer cool and dry. The fabric design and durability will provide a long garment life that stands up to multiple launderings. It is also inherently FR to ensure the fabric's heat and flame protection will never wash or wear out,” adds Granger.

Certified protection

TenCate Tecasafe Plus 580 is certified to NFPA 2112 and is NFPA 70E HRC 1 compliant. TenCate says this ensures excellent protection against flash fire and electric arc flash hazards. The protective fabric can be dyed in a variety of colours such as light blue, khaki and royal blue.

 “This remarkable fabric is suited for use in industrial safety protective apparel, wild lands and fire fighting garments and as station wear for structural fire fighters and first responders. Leveraging the technology and success of TenCate Tecasafe Plus 700 and 850, TenCate Tecasafe Plus 580 is positioned to become a leading choice in the field,” Elliad Granger says.

The product portfolio of FR woven fabrics is available in three weights: 5.8, 7.0, and 8.5 ounces per square yard.

“At a low initial cost, and lower cost per wear than FR treated cotton, TenCate Tecasafe Plus not only offers greater value, but it is commercially available in all three weights today. Potentially fatal workplace accidents do not wait, and in the face of the current shortage of FR treated cotton, TenCate Tecasafe Plus is the obvious choice for workers who need affordable and comfortable protection now,” Granger adds.

Joint forces

TenCate Protective Fabrics North America says it has joined forces with its channel partners to fill the gap left by FR treated cotton, and to meet the upsurge in demand for FR clothing. The company says that cooperation within the value chain leads to maximum quality control by all parties involved in the development process, resulting in integral quality assurance, which is said to be fully in line with the system approach advocated by TenCate.