One thing that is key for a firefighter is time. Time to get out! Core FX is designed and tested to give this protection – EXTRA TIME. Kermel’s new CoreFX fabric is a high-performance solution for fire suits. It is very thermostable and can withstand a double flashover without any break-open. Due to its unique composition this fabric provides great protection and comfort.
Kermel is a permanently non-flammable fibre used all over the world by firefighters, police, military and industry professionals. Kermel can never burn as the molecular structure of the polymer means sustained combustion is just not possible. Regardless of UV exposure, washing, time or chemical contamination Kermel will always remain 100% flame retardant.
Why is Kermel so comfortable?
The physical structure/shape of Kermel fibre (spherical) results in numerous unique advantages, e.g. Kermel has limited piling, the smooth surface is unrivalled for ‘next to skin’ feel and the lower surface area means dirt has fewer sites to attach. This all gives the end user the best possible garment.
Testing a double flashover
We conducted a double exposure comprising an initial manikin test followed by cooling of the apparatus to ambient temperature. The jacket was opened to demonstrate flexibility of the outer fabric. Then a second identical exposure was carried out on the already damaged suit and the results for both the initial test and the repeat test were calculated. Testing was undertaken on the 2006 version of the ‘male’ heat-sensing manikin known as RALPH (Research Aim Longer Protection against Heat) developed at BTTG. This version of RALPH, together with the associated test facility, has been built to comply with ISO 13506: 2008.
RALPH has a total of 123 sensors distributed over the head, torso, legs and arms which monitor the temperature on the surface of the manikin during a test. From the temperatures recorded predictive percentage burn injury at Pain, 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree levels are calculated using the Takata and Stoll skin model as specified in Annex C of ISO 13506: 2008.
During a test the manikin is challenged by a flame engulfment apparatus consisting of 12 burners surrounding the manikin in a hexagonal pattern. The manikin is placed at the centre of the hexagonal pattern. The lower set of six burners are pointed at the legs and lower body of the manikin whilst the upper set of six burners are pointed at the upper body and head.
The new Kermel CORE FX allows you to accomplish all your missions in the most demanding conditions.
For more information, go to www.eagletechnicalproducts.com
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