Sample Aramid description with images that are are mostly used in the manufacture of fire resistant clothing.
Chemical lab image helping to illustrate FR cotton and that the cotton fabric is sprayed over with or dipped into a flame-resistant chemical
kevlar-fiber-500x500.jpg
Image of a Cotton Plant. Even though cotton has high melting points it is prone to combustion

fire-retardant facing suits use either an Aramid fabric or a Chemically Treated (FR fire resistant) Fabric. What s the difference?

  • A certified racing suit’s fabric will either have been woven using an aramid fiber or made with a chemically treated organic fabric (FR.)

  • ARAMIDS are synthetic, technical fibers that have inherent properties including heat & flame resistance, low thermal conductivity, lightweight, resistant to abrasion, own a high tensile strength, have resistance to organic solvents and chemicals oils.

  • The fire resistant properties of an aramid fiber remain with the fabric and cannot be washed out.

  • Avoiding the complicated science of fire-retardant fiber compositions, it is simpler to state that there are multiple fire-retardant aramid fibers used in safety clothing. For motorsports Nomex® from DuPont™ is the preferred (meta-aramid) material.

  • Most aramid racing suits will be made with 100% Nomex® or -
    Nomex blended with another aramid fiber or -

    Nomex blended with an organic material such as cotton or -
    Be a manufacturer exclusive technical aramid fiber

  • Nearly all racing suits have a Nomex® lining

  • Aramid fibers are often constructed to contain other beneficial features such as elasticity, breathability and anti-static behavior.

  • The blend and the degree of Nomex® woven into the fabric will decrease or increase the price of the suit. Nomex® is proprietary and expensive. 100% Nomex® suits are highly desirable for their increased thermal properties, and because they are ultra light. The suit also has a higher degree of shine.

  • The blends and composition of an aramid woven fabric can significantly increase the suits characteristics including thermal resistance, weight, appearance and flexibility. Brands will develop with, or choose from manufacturers of aramid fabrics to distinguish their products from competitors.

  • Stretch panels are manufactured using highly, technical aramid fibers that have been developed for elasticity and breathability. Their inclusion in a suit significantly benefits the driver but can significantly increase the price of the suit.

THE CHEMICALLY TREATED (FR) FABRIC (usually cotton,) gains its flame resistance from being treated with a flame retardant chemical. The process produces a lower cost fabric. The downside the treatment is not permanent. In addition, to comply with the SFI & FIA safety standards, the suit will be much heavier. Frequent washing, regular use, exposure to certain elements causes the suit to lose some degree, or all, of its flame resistance. This can start at the eighth wash.

Proban FR cotton, Pyrovatex FR cotton, Indura FR cotton are all registered brands frequently used in the manufacture of ‘wallet friendly’ racing suits.

FR cotton suits are always heavier. Cotton is inherently heavier than synthetic thread. In addition, to pass the thermal tests (TPP,) multiple layers will have been used.

Remember no matter the fabric all the suits have to pass the same SFI and/or FIA standard tests. It’s how they achieve this which leads to the significant differences and costs of the suit.