New Year, New Protection: Why We’ve Upgraded to Stanco Carbon Kevlar®

As we kick off 2026, many of our partners in the foundry and aluminum extrusion industries are performing their first safety audits of the year. When it comes to extreme heat, "good enough" isn't an option. That is why we are excited to spotlight our move to the Stanco ACKK214WL as our primary 14-inch high-heat gauntlet.

The Carbon Kevlar® Advantage

While standard aluminized gloves reflect heat, the Stanco ACKK214WL takes it a step further. By blending Carbon with Kevlar®, this glove offers superior structural integrity. In environments where molten metal splash is a daily risk, this material is engineered to "shed" the splash, preventing liquid metal from sticking to the glove and causing catastrophic burns.

Why This is the New Standard for 2026:

• 95% Radiant Heat Reflection: The aluminized back acts as a thermal mirror, keeping your hands cool even when working near furnace openings.

• Heavyweight 22 oz. Kevlar® Palm: This provides a massive barrier against abrasion and allows for safe intermittent contact up to 900°F.

• Superior Availability: We know that lead times can break a production schedule. By transitioning to this Stanco model, we are able to offer a higher-performing glove with much more reliable stock levels than previous alternatives.

Don't Forget the "Human Element"

Extreme PPE only works if your team stays focused. This month, we are also recommending that facilities restock their Cough & Cold Relief dispenser boxes. A distracted worker in a high-heat zone is a major safety risk—keeping non-drowsy relief on hand ensures your team stays sharp and clear-headed.

Safety Manager’s Checklist for January:

1. Inspect Heat Gloves: Look for "cracking" in aluminized surfaces or thinning palms.

2. Verify Reorder Numbers: Use Reorder #1252 for your Cold Relief refills to stay ahead of the winter flu surge.

3. Upgrade to Carbon Kevlar: If you are still using standard aramid blends, consider the Stanco ACKK214WL for better splash protection.