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The introduction of FR stretch fabrics into the industrial safety market is relatively new. Most solutions are not suitable for the market as they lack durability and are unable to withstand industrial laundering. However, our latest innovation, Tecasafe® 360+ made with the XLANCE® stretch fiber, is an exception. In this blog, we speak to Jerome Hanriot, General Manager at XLANCE® and an expert source when it comes to stretch fibers and their durability, to find out what makes the XLANCE® fiber and Tecasafe® 360+ fabric so unique.
The origins of XLANCE®
The first developments of what today is XLANCE® began in the mid-2000. Launched in 2017 with its current branding XLANCE® is a polyolefin-based yarn known for its durable elasticity and unique chemical and thermal resistance. It is a revolutionary new product without comparison — and the first new elastic yarn on the market since 1967.
The origins of Tecasafe®
The Tecasafe® collection of inherent-FR fabrics has been popular in a wide range of industries for more than 20 years. In our latest innovation Tecasafe® 360+, we've stretched the bar even higher, with features such as:
- Excellent mechanical properties in tear strength due to Ripstop construction and para-aramid/polyamide content
- Improved tensile strength & FR performance (electric arc) due to para-aramid fibers
- Minimized folding/creases due to the incorporation of polyamide.
- The option to purchase with ethically sourced cotton, responsibly produced and safety tested
Fabric construction of The Tecasafe® 360+, featured with XLANCE® stretch fiber
A uniquely durable solution
XLANCE®’s durability as a stretch fiber is truly unmatched. If we compare it to spandex for example, the differences are obvious. If spandex were to be put through industrial laundering, it would lose its elastic properties or break. XLANCE®, on the other hand, experiences no fatigue or damage after multiple industrial washes. It complies with ISO15797, meaning it can withstand over 100 washes, making it exceptionally resistant.
XLANCE® washing performances, source: XLANCE®
Furthermore, XLANCE® can withstand temperatures of up to 428 degrees Fahrenheit without comprising its integrity and stretch performance, making it highly suitable for applications within the industrial safety market. This also means that the overall lifecycle of a garment incorporating XLANCE® — such as Tecasafe® 360+ — can be extended.
To learn more about how Tecasafe® 360+ performs in industrial laundering, we spoke with Alexander Zierer from ALSCO, a major industrial laundry in Europe. See video below to learn about their wash testing process, and how Tecasafe® 360+ measured up when put through these tests.
Wash testing at ALSCO: how Tecasafe® 360+ performs in industrial laundries
Comfortable for the wearer
There is a big trend within the industrial safety market today regarding comfort. Previously, fabrics were often rigid and not fitted. Tecasafe® 360+, made with the XLANCE® fiber, offers the opportunity to prioritize comfort alongside protective qualities. This is because XLANCE® features an innovative gentle stretch power, completely different from the typical high stretch power of spandex. The force required to stretch XLANCE® is much lower than that required for spandex. Therefore, Tecafesafe® 360+ offers the wearer a uniquely comfortable stretch feeling, perfectly suited for applications in energy, utility, (petro)chemical and manufacturing segments.
Stylish and great fit, they drape beautifully and, even after more than four years of use, they’re still intact and as elastic as they were in the first month! Absolute comfort: not too loose, not too tight. They make me feel free to perform any movement, which is crucial for safety—for example, when climbing, descending, or moving around on ladders, scaffolding, or work platforms. Freedom of movement (unlike traditional work pants that can get in the way) means safety at work!
- Feedback of maintenance worker wearing workwear with XLANCE®
An investment in the future
As with most innovations, Tecasafe® 360+ is a more premium offer. However, it is worth considering that purchasing this fabric covers not just the cost of a single garment, but the cost of an entire lifecycle. XLANCE®’s extended lifecycle, thanks to its ability to withstand a high number of industrial wash cycles, means money is saved in the long term as it does not need to be replaced as frequently.
"With XLANCE® and Tecasafe® 360+, you have protection you can trust."
- Jerome Hanriot
Keen to find out more?
Why not visit the Tecasafe® 360+ experience, where you can learn about the experiences of users, and request a sample or wear trial.
