Choosing the Right Arc Flash PPE: Lightweight vs. Standard Protection
When it comes to high-voltage electrical work, the question isn't whether you need protection—it’s which type of protection will keep you safest and most productive on the job. With the recent expansion of our Stanco Arc Flash category, we now offer two distinct paths to NFPA 70E CAT 4 compliance: Standard UltraSoft® kits and the new Lightweight NORFAB and Aramid blends.
1. The Traditional Powerhouse: Westex UltraSoft®
For many safety managers, the Stanco TTK40 and TTK25 kits are the gold standard. Using a dual-ply construction of Westex UltraSoft® fabric, these kits offer:
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Familiar Comfort: An 88% cotton blend that feels like standard workwear but provides permanent flame resistance.
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Extreme Durability: High-tenacity nylon in the fabric resists abrasions in tight industrial spaces.
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Full-Body Security: These are comprehensive kits including 35" coats, bibs, and standard hoods to meet CAT 3 and CAT 4 requirements.
2. The New Frontier: Lightweight "Task-Based" Gear
Heat stress is one of the biggest hidden dangers in electrical maintenance. If your team is working in non-climate-controlled environments, every ounce of fabric weight matters. Our new Stanco TT44670 Bib Overalls and TTK44TV Kits are game-changers:
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40% Lighter Weight: By using NORFAB and specialized Aramid blends, these garments achieve a 44 cal/cm² rating at a total weight of only 11 oz/yd².
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Reduced Fatigue: Lightweight gear allows for better range of motion and keeps the wearer significantly cooler during long shifts.
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Advanced Visibility: Kits featuring the TransVision Shield™ provide clear color perception, allowing workers to identify wires without lifting their protective visor.
3. Economy Options: The TTEK Series
For those who need high-level protection for quick-response tasks, the Stanco TTEK Economy Kits (like the TTEK40) offer a unique 50-inch coat and 15-inch legging configuration. This setup allows for rapid donning over existing daily-wear FR clothing, ensuring you are CAT 4 compliant in seconds.
Which Kit is Right for You?
| Feature | Standard (TTK40/TTK25) | Lightweight (TT44670/TTK44) |
| Fabric | Dual-Ply UltraSoft® | 11 oz. NORFAB/Aramid |
| Best For | Rugged, all-day durability | High-heat environments |
| Weight | Traditional heavy-ply | 40% lighter than cotton |
| Rating | Up to 40 Cal | Up to 44 Cal |
Stay Safe. Stay Compliant.
Whether you prefer the rugged feel of UltraSoft® or the heat-beating performance of our lightweight NORFAB line, we have the NFPA 70E solution to fit your workflow.
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