New PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® Technology by GORE-TEX LABS Launching at A+A
The lightest weight Class 2 arc protection for cold and windy conditions
Electrical engineers and people in the power supply industry are often exposed to the risk of life-threatening arc flash in their daily work - and sometimes in extreme weather conditions. GORE-TEX Professional (Gore), the specialist for technical product technologies, is therefore expanding its PYRAD® portfolio with PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® Technology by GORE-TEX LABS: With a weight of 380 g/m², it combines the lightest class 2 arc fault protection and high breathability with constant thermal protection in cold and windy conditions or moderate rain.
Gore will present the PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® Technology by GORE-TEX LABS for the first time in Europe at A+A 2023 in Düsseldorf, Germany (October 24-27, 2023) at Booth G 60 in Hall 11.
The speed and strength of wind has a great influence on how cool a worker feels during outdoor work or operations. Personal protective clothing with PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® technology by GORE-TEX LABS technology offers the lightest weight Class 2 arc protection for cold and windy conditions. It is totally windproof and thus protects against unpleasant cooling caused by wind chill. In addition, it provides maximum breathability for improved wearing comfort in windy weather. The laminate's lightweight construction facilitates freedom of movement for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) wearers, ideal for physically demanding jobs that require dexterity and flexibility. "PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® technology by GORE-TEX LABS provides the most consistently warm Class 2 arc protection for cold, windy and moderately rainy weather conditions - without compromising weight or breathability", summarises Miguel Calixto, FR/ARC Multinorm Workwear Product Specialist at GORE-TEX Professional.
The PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® laminate technology by GORE-TEX LABS consists of 3 layers - a water-repellent face fabric for protection against moderate rain, a special membrane that completely blocks wind while incorporating protective PYRAD® technology, and a soft backer for balanced thermal comfort protection. PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® technology by GORE-TEX LABS is versatile and suitable for a variety of garment types including jackets, trousers, and coveralls.
PYRAD® technology: real-time protection through stable char layer
The PYRAD® product technology is based on a physical effect: it consists of countless small reactive dots homogeneously distributed over the fabric. When the fabric is strongly heated by a sudden flame or arc flash exposure, the dots react and expand by more than 10 times their original size to form a stable, gapless carbon layer that effectively inhibits heat flowing through the fabric. The result: no holes in the textile, no burning of clothing worn underneath, no burns on the skin even when exposed to the strongest heat.
Proven protection and comfort
PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® technology by GORE-TEX LABS has been tested to IEC 61482-1-2 (Arc Rating Class 2) and IEC 61482-1-1 with an ELIM (Incident Energy Limit) value of ≥40 cal/cm² and an ATPV value (Arc Thermal Performance Value) of ≥45 cal/cm². This ensures reliable and constant arc fault protection. In addition, the innovative technology combination also meets EN ISO 11612 standards (ISO 11612 Class A1, A2, B1, C1, D1, E1, F1) for flame retardancy and EN 13034 for protection against liquid chemicals. It is EN ISO 11611 compliant and provides protection against sparks and metal particles during welding. The laminate of PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® Technology by GORE-TEX LABS also has antistatic properties according to EN ISO 1149 3/5 and is available in high-visibility colors (Hi Vis Yellow and Orange) that comply with EN ISO 20471. The excellent breathability of the technology is certified by EN ISO 11092.
Sustainable manufacturing and material selection
The PYRAD® WINDSTOPPER® technology by GORE-TEX LABS is manufactured using PFC-free DWR (durable water repellency). Thanks to the use of 100% recycled polyester in the outer fabric plus a liner made from a carefully selected blend of fibres, the technology has a low environmental footprint (as measured by the MSI Higgs Index). It also complies with OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and California's Prop 65.
Gore revolutionised the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX Fabric more than 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to defense operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com
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. gore.com