FireLoc®: Designed for Extreme Conditions

What Makes FireLoc® Special?

ACW’s FireLoc® Hardware is a specialized line of buckles, adjusters, and other fastening components made from superior heat-resistant plastic materials. This proprietary material is engineered to withstand high temperatures and, most importantly, meet stringent flammability standards, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). Additionally, FireLoc® has achieved a UL 94 V-0 flame rating.

The UL 94 V-0 flame rating is a critical standard for plastic materials. It signifies that the material stopped burning:

• Within 10 seconds after two applications of flame.
• No flaming drips from the specimen-ignited cotton placed below it.
  
  

In terms of flame retardancy, this V-0 classification is one of the most stringent for plastics, indicating excellent self-extinguishing properties with minimal risk of fire spread.

FireLoc® in Use

The primary applications for FireLoc® hardware are in products where fire safety, heat resistance, and potentially lightweight non-metallic solutions are paramount. This often involves:

• First Responder Gear: Firefighter turnout gear, rescue harnesses, EMT bags, and other equipment where hardware must not melt or ignite under extreme heat and in dangerous situations that make personnel vulnerable.
• Military and Tactical Equipment: Uniforms, vests, packs, and straps for military equipment that need to maintain integrity in high-heat environments or combat situations.
• Industrial Safety Equipment: Safety harnesses, fall protection equipment, tool belts, and protective clothing used in industries with fire hazards (e.g., welding, foundries, chemical plants).
• Outdoor and Recreational Gear: While perhaps less extreme than first responder gear, certain high-performance outdoor products, especially those used near open flames or in harsh conditions, may benefit from enhanced fire resistance.
• Transportation(Automotive, Aerospace): Components used in vehicle interiors (e.g., seat belt components, cargo restraints) or aircraft, where strict flammability standards are in place to ensure passenger safety in the event of a fire.
• Medical and Healthcare: Some medical devices or patient restraints where flame retardancy is a safety requirement.
  
  

Benefits for Product Manufacturing and End Use:

For Product Manufacturing:

1. Compliance with Safety Standards: Manufacturers can easily meet stringent fire safety regulations (like NFPA, UL, or specific industry standards) without resorting to heavier, more expensive metal alternatives.
2. Design Flexibility: Unlike metal, plastic hardware offers greater design flexibility in terms of shapes, colors, and integration into complex product designs.
3. Reduced Manufacturing Costs: FireLoc® plastic hardware is generally lighter and less expensive than comparable metal hardware, leading to lower material costs and potentially reduced shipping expenses.
4. Ease of Integration: Plastic buckles are often easier to attach and integrate into textile products compared to metal hardware, potentially streamlining assembly processes.
5. Corrosion Resistance: Unlike many metals, FireLoc® plastic hardware is inherently resistant to rust and corrosion, extending product life and maintaining aesthetic appeal, especially in humid or harsh environments.

For End Use (Benefits to the User):

1. Enhanced Safety: This is the paramount benefit. In environments where fire is a risk, FireLoc® hardware provides an extra layer of safety by not contributing to flame spread, maintaining structural integrity under heat, and preventing flaming drips that could cause secondary burns.
2. Lightweight: Being made of plastic, FireLoc® hardware significantly reduces the overall weight of the end product compared to equivalent metal hardware. This is crucial for applications like firefighter gear, where every ounce counts, or for comfortable wear in prolonged use.
3. Durability in Harsh Environments: Beyond fire resistance, the materials used are often engineered for high strength, impact resistance, and chemical resistance, ensuring the hardware performs reliably under demanding conditions.
4. Comfort and Non-Conductivity: Plastic hardware is generally more comfortable against the skin than metal, and it does not conduct heat or electricity, which can be a critical safety feature in certain applications (e.g., electrical work, extreme cold).
5. Cost-Effectiveness: While a specialized product, FireLoc® hardware allows for the creation of high-safety, high-performance products at a more accessible pricepoint compared to designs relying solely on exotic metals.

In summary, ACW’s FireLoc® Hardware addresses a critical need in product manufacturing for reliable, compliant, and high-performance fastening solutions in environments where fire safety and heat resistance are non-negotiable.
Its blend of safety, lightweight design, and durability makes it an invaluable component for a wide range of mission-critical and high-performance products.