Optimus is a new generation of fire suit designed to be 20% Lighter and 20% Better Performance. Studies have shown that for every 100g/m2 that is added to a fire suit assembly this results in a 10% additional loading on the heart. Optimus has been designed to reduce the overall weight of the suit by 20-25% compared to leading assemblies. By using the latest technology in outer shell protection Optimus can be washed for 60 washes whilst still maintaining Chemical and liquid protection to the fire fighter. Some outer shells require chemical reimpregnation during every wash. This has implications ! Washing the reimpregnation chemical into the entire garment means the layers in contact with the skin are also covered in this chemical which could potentially lead to an increased risk of cancer. Optimums is more sustainable.
The outer fabric is designed in such a way abrasion protection is enhanced. In laboratory tests many outer shell fabrics fail at around 25,000 rubs, the fabric in Optimus can withstand 100,000 + . This means your fire kit will last longer, can be washed more frequently and requires less chemical re impregnation, meaning you are doing your best to enhance the sustainable needs of our environment.
The first line of defence is the Outershell. The outer fabric of the Fire suit assembly is the latest textile innovation in lightweight outer shell for fire kit. It is our first line of defence, designed specifically for use in structural firefighting garments and was developed in response to firefighter concerns about chemical contamination. The fabric weaves protective fibers in a tight gabardine™ structure (a type of weave originally developed for use in heavy-duty raincoats) that provides maximum resistance to liquid penetration while remaining comfortable to wear. Firefighters who have worn the Optimus suit utilizing this outer fabric to fire incidents have remarked that, after wiping the garment down, very little carbonaceous material came off on the wipe. The tight weave prevents harmful particles from being absorbed into the garment, keeping the wearer safer. In addition to this, the fabric is also incredibly strong and durable. The textile has been proven to withstand over 100 wash and dry cycles against Chemical spillage and still perform as well as if it were new. The Durable water repellent applied to the surface can withstand 60 wash and dry cycles before a reapplication is required. This ensures the Optimus suit can have an increased frequency of washing compared to other fabrics in the marketplace and can lower the possibility of carcinogens reaching the firefighter through continued use or by fabrics that require continuous or frequent applications of Chemical replant treatments in the wash cycles. The fabric is highly resistant to abrasion and has excellent colour fastness leading to increased longevity of the garment. The 3D moisture barrier we have used is the latest evolution of heat barriers, due to the 3 D nature and channeling of the non-woven structure utilized in the moisture barrier at least 2 seconds additional radiant heat protection is obtained over traditional moisture barriers of the same weight currently utilized in the market.
Optimus most definitely meets the needs of the industry and significantly enhances the levels of protection to the wearer. Heat Stress will be reduced, and Increased laundry capacity without additional chemicals will lead to the reduction of carcinogens which together significantly improves fire fighter environment and safety.
