Choices When Selecting A Category 2 Arc Flash Kit
There are different choices when searching for a category 2 arc flash kit which could include fabric, type garment style and with or without rubber insulated gloves. The more you add to the kit does affect the price and hopefully this article will help you with your purchasing decision.
When it comes to fabric type there are a couple choices that are familiar such as the Protera fabric which is breathable, lightweight and very durable and the Ultra Soft FR cotton fabric that is very popular and has been what you could call an industry standard.
The Protera fabric is a little more expensive (typically 10% more) although the expected wear life is 3-4 years compared to the Ultra Soft which is 2-3 years.
Next in line is whether you want the kit to include added features such as a knit face covering balaclava which is a ski mask type hood that is worn inside the hard hat/face shield assembly for added protection. Some vendors will supply this as part of the kit and others will provide it as an add on option. This way you can lower the costs slightly if a balaclava is not required.
Typically a category 2 protective kit consist of a coverall, hard hat/face shield assembly, safety glasses, a gear bag to hold all the units and some brands will provide a knit balaclava. Some of our customers in the past have asked for the jacket and bib overall combo but this setup is usually not offered until one gets in to a category 3 and 4 protection. This option can of course be provided but it is more expensive as we would have to piece together the components and the coverall kit is a stock assembly as it is the most in demand type of set. The reason for this is because a one piece coverall is less costly to make then the 2 piece jacket/overall combo.
The last choice to make is whether you require rubber insulated gloves. Most kits come with the choice of with or without the glove kit. The glove is generally a class 0 (1000 VAC) along with the leather protector gloves and a protective bag. Again it has a lot to do with budgets and what you really require as if you already have gloves you would not have to order them again.
Terry Smeader
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Tags: Arc Flash Kit, category 2, Class 0 gloves, Protera, rubber insulated gloves, Ultra Soft
