As mentioned in previous articles, the ability of the arc suppression BlastMat™ blanket to endure the stress of an arc event involves its strength and flame resistance.  A blanket should be examined before each use to ensure its integrity and cleanliness. If the blanket has not been exposed to the heat and pressure from an arc explosion during use, it could possibly be reused.

Safety Protocols

If the blanket is damaged, it should either be discarded or repaired. Damage such as minor discoloration can be repaired. Care must be taken to insure the blankets three critical properties have not been compromised:

• Resistance to blow through
• Ability to protect against blast
• Ability to stop after flame

Rips, tears, loose or missing seams, heavy abrasion, missing grommets, or other obvious problems require removal from service. Protocols for removing damaged blankets from service must be a part of your organizations’ safety program.

Cleaning

With proper cleaning, you will prolong the useful life of the BlastMat blanket. The following procedures must be followed:

• Blankets can be washed in commercial or home laundry equipment
• Hot water – 140F is sufficient
• Detergents ONLY are to be used.
  • Soaps leave a residue on the fabrics and can promote flaming
• Oxygen bleach is OK.
  • Chlorine bleach will reduce the strength of the ballistic layers by up to 90%. Do not use it.
• Dry the blankets completely after washing as water can conduct electricity and has a secondary effect of reducing the fabric strength until removed.

Therm-Equip® Arc Suppression Blankets

Our BlastMat arc suppression blankets are a multi-layer product with outer fabric layers protecting the ballistic fabric inner layers. Fabric used in the outer layers has been tested to 25 washings with no significant change in properties. The fabric for the inner layers provide over 80% of the strength and is the major concern in blanket care.

By Victor L. Petrovic PhD