Wearing PPE in extreme climates can present some of the biggest challenges for firefighters. For the past eight years Eagle has been working with key partners to develop a new firefighting ensemble designed specifically for this harsh environment.
High UV and extreme external temperatures present a huge risks for firefighter safety. The solution – to find and utilise the best innovative materials in the world and reduce suit weight, improve breathability and reduce heat stress.
Firefighters are often exposed to burns, smoke inhalation and crush injuries. They are also exposed to heat stress, on a daily basis, which leads to severe impact on their physical performance and job-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion and cardiac arrest. It is a known fact that firefighting is hot, exhausting and can be dangerous, and this is amplified with when having to work in high humidity and ambient temperatures.
Heat stress puts firefighters at greater risk of developing heat-related illness which can be fatal. Research shows that heat stress also puts significant pressure on a firefighters cardiovascular system, with the worst outcome being a sudden cardiac event (SCE) like a stroke or heart attack.
The technical team at Eagle have worked closely with fabric designers and engineers to design products with improved breathability. The goal being to create PPE that works better at dissipating the heat generated by the firefighter during physical exertion whilst still protecting to the highest standards.
The Vulcan fire suit utilises fabric technology and construction techniques which give a greater flexibility and agility while working. When PPE is bulky and heavy it places an unnecessary burden on the wearer. Eagle have focussed on ensuring the performance of their garments considers both Thermal Protective Performance (TPP) i.e. protect the firefighter from external heat and allow the heat generated to escape and Thermal Heat Loss (THL).
Eagle have worked very closely with fabric partners to deliver garments with an exceptionally low RET breathability score which provides the wearer with an additional level of comfort.
Why PBI Pro?
We have used PBI in the manufacture of the Vulcan outer shell which significantly increases the level of outer shell protection for firefighters. Pbi Pro is unique compared to other fabrics because it is an engineered yarn which combines additional heat and flame protection with the super-strong filaments making for improved flame and UV protection. In comparable products the filament suffers under UV attack (up to 57% loss in strength after 200 hours), whereas PBI Pro has a wrap that reduces this loss. It also features Petroguard+ fabric finish that also reduces UV attack.
PBI Pro uses the Aramid filament, which is also used in other PBI fabrics. The innovation in this new fabric is that the filament is protected and therefore improves break open performance. It can also be produced in dark colours such as dark navy or black.
Fabric strength tests from independent reports
- Residual Strength >2300N – the standard is 450N
- Tensile Strength >2500N – the standard is 450N
- Tear Strength >580N the standard 25N
The Vulcan fire suit utilises a superior membrane and liner which combine to provide excellent performance and resilience.
Stedair 3000E is a high-performance PTFE Bi-Component Technology which is resistant to Blood Borne Pathogens, Viral Penetration and Common Chemicals. It features a bi-component membrane composed of a hydrophilic (water loving) and oleophobic (oil hating) coating that is impregnated into the matrix.
The TriDex Liner is a highly innovative 3D Weave featuring air gaps that improve heat resistance – a single layer liner which is exceptionally soft, comfortable and breathable.
Ergonomic design
With years of experience and a strategy of investment in continuous improvement, Eagle’s newest Vulcan 3D design is the ultimate suit, offering unrestricted freedom of movement. The fresh style has been inspired by leading sportswear research which will provide firefighters with garments that look and feel good, as well as provide them with optimal protection. Ergonomics is all about designing a garment to best enable the firefighter to do their job. The sport action-cut reduces any restriction.
Conclusion
The Vulcan’s delivers a weight reduction of up to 40% on some leading historical products that are in use today in the region. Materials and improved design mean breathability and comfort has been achieved. The advances in outer shell and the inner materials means that this product will have greater UV protection and therefore extend garment life. The Vulcan is ready for you.
For more information, go to www.eagletechnicalproducts.com
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