DuPont launches next-generation multi-hazard protection

With a global reputation for innovation and development in inherent, multi-hazard protection for a variety of thermal hazards, DuPont has announced the launch of its new Nomex MHP fabric. This fabric represents the next-generation of protection against heat and flame, arc flash and small molten metal splashes for industrial areas.

Nomex MHP has been designed in response to growing market demand for multi-hazard protection, providing durability and high levels of protection while remaining breathable and comfortable: a significant step forward in performance. Nomex MHP, a blended fabric, is light and breathable because it incorporates the Nomex fibre and retains its strength and durability through the use of DuPont Kevlar fibres. As a result, the fabric delivers more durable multi-hazard protection in the mid-performance multi-hazard environment.

Nomex MHP was developed with workers in mind. It offers a number of features designed for a more professional appearance and comfort, resulting in higher levels of acceptance. Standard touch testing methods, carried out by the French Institute for Textiles and Clothing, revealed that Nomex MHP feels soft and smooth compared to FR cotton and modacrylic blends. The fabric is naturally fluid and supple that, in turn, prevents it from creasing.

Nomex MHP is engineered to absorb moisture and dries faster than FR treated cotton, in addition to having lightweight properties that allow workers to stay comfortable while working. It shrinks less than FR treated cotton and current modacrylic blends, resulting in a better fit for the garment’s life, important factors to ensure comfort and a lasting professional appearance.

Frederique Favier, Application Development Leader Nomex Personal Protection, said: "Nomex MHP is suitable for workers currently wearing garments made from FR cotton or simple modacrylic blends of fabric who are looking to make the first step in upgrading their protection level  in the multi-hazard  environment. Nomex MHP has also been designed to offer excellent wear-life cost”.

In addition to  wear trials, garments made from Nomex MHP fabric have been tested  on DuPont Thermo-Man, one of the most advanced thermal burn injury evaluation devices in the world. The results demonstrate that Nomex MHP offers very low percentage body burn at 3, 4 and 5 second exposures, providing the wearer with an exceptional level of protection.

With the danger of counterfeit or poorly manufactured protective garments an ever-present threat, companies are continually looking for reassurance that garments purchased are authentic and are of a high quality. The DuPont Nomex Partner Program helps to combat this by creating a carefully-selected network of customer-oriented and progressive weavers and garment manufacturers whose fabrics and garments pass the rigorous quality controls of DuPont. Certified Nomex fabrics are visible to the end-user through the distinctive Nomex labelling programme.

Garments containing Nomex have either a Nomex red label or a Nomex orange label. The use of these labels helps end-users to distinguish the protective quality of the garments and provides assurance of authenticity, quality and performance. The red label is a clear indication that the garment is of premium quality: it always offers excellent heat and flame and arc protection ranging from good to outstanding - together with offering exceptional durability and light weight properties. 

The orange label, found in garments made from Nomex MHP, signifies a mid-range category garment in the Nomex fabric portfolio which offers improved protective performance, durability and comfort relative to FR cottons and modacrylic fabrics. Garments with the orange label offer good heat and flame protection and are made of a scientifically engineered blend of Nomex and other materials.

For more than 40 years, people working in the most dangerous jobs have trusted Nomex to offer the best in thermal protection. With the introduction of Nomex MHP, DuPont exceeds current standards in multi-hazard protection and continues to provide innovative and new solutions to help keep people safe at work. To find out more about Nomex MHP and the Nomex fibre, visit www.nomex.co.uk/solutions.