There Are Important Differences Between Fire-Resistant and Fire-Retardant: Here’s What You Need to Know

While the terms “fire resistant” and “fire retardant” appear to be very similar, there is a world of difference between them. And when it comes to engineering, innovation, and practical applications, it’s good to know as much as we can about these differences.

Defining “Flame Retardant” vs “Flame Resistant”

Flame retardant materials are treated with chemicals to slow down the process of combustion. When treated materials are exposed to ignition sources, they will still eventually catch fire, but the flames will spread more slowly than in situations with untreated products. In some cases, they will extinguish themselves once the sources of ignition are removed.  The materials most often used for fire retardancy are pretty standard- things like cotton, nylon, or polyester. Chemically treating them improves their resistance to fire.

Flame-resistant materials, on the other hand, are naturally resistant to fire due to their unique composition. They are ideal for functionality in environments where exposure to high heat or open flames exists and where there are high risks for failures.

The most common materials used for flame resistance are Kevlar, Nomex, PBI, and other para-aramids.

How do I decide which material to use and when?

Well, the best answer often lies in looking at the properties of each category of material.

The Key Properties of Fire-Retardant Materials are that they:

• Reduced Flammability- Their chemical treatments slow the burning process.
• Offer Temporary Protection- The flame-retardant properties can and often will degrade over time, especially with exposure to heat, moisture, UV rays, chemical washing, or weathering.
• Have a Risk for Chemical Leaching- Over a period of time, some flame-retardant chemicals can leach out of materials or products that potentially pose environmental and health risks.
  
  

Chemically treated fire-retardant cord and webbing are usually made from nylon or polyester and are commonly used in applications where a moderate level of fire resistance is required, such as camping gear, upholstery, and automotive interiors. You will find flame-retardant-coated ropes are used in marine applications where exposure to fire is a potential risk, such as on boats and docks.

Key Properties of Fire-Resistant Materials are that they

• Have inherent resistances to burning or melting- They are engineered at the molecular level to resist fire.   

• Burn slowly- and have self-extinguishing properties built in. Once the actual causes of combustion are removed, they will typically remain intact. 

• Emit limited levels of smoke and/or toxic gasses- by engineered design, these products will not typically self-perpetuate or enable the spread of fire.
• Have permanent resistant properties- that do not degrade over time under proper care.
  
  

Why choose ACW when looking for flame-retardant or flame-resistant materials?

With over 100 years of battle-tested, in-field customer experiences under our belts, we have proven track records that demonstrate we know what we’re talking about. 

We conscientiously and continuously put our materials through

• Rigorous Testing and Compliance: Our manufacturing process includes rigorous testing throughout critical steps to ensure our flame-retardant materials meet or exceed industry standards and safety regulations.
• Quality Assurance: We use the highest-quality materials and state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques to produce webbing and cord that perform reliably under fire conditions.
• Proven Performance: Our flame-retardant webbing and cord have been used in various critical applications, so you know they have proven effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
• Expertise and Innovation: With over 100 years of experience in the industry, we continuously innovate to improve the fire-retardant properties of our products to make sure you receive the best possible protection.

ACW engineers are solution providers.  

We are with you every step of the way. From design inception to rolling your finished product out the door, ACW has the expertise and performance history that matters most.

• We produce the high-quality cord and webbing you need. 
• We produce heat-retardant plastic buckles.
• We also procure any additional hardware you may need.
• We can do all the preassembly, cutting, and sewing. 

Because we handle it all, you rest assured your products will meet and/or beat all the standards you put in place. 

ACW products are Safety Engineered. 

Whether you need flame retardancy or flame resistance, our cord and webbing are essential for applications that require limited fire exposure protection or for those that must function in mission critical, high-risk environments. Their inherent properties and superior performance make them the preferred choices for high-risk environments. 

Rely on ACW for fire-retardant and fire-resistant cord, webbing, buckles, & hardware. No other company has dedicated the time, expertise, and proven in-field experience to produce the best flame-retardant webbing and cord that meet rigorous fire safety requirements for essential applications that require long-term fire exposure protection. Our products and materials inherently protect against fire and offer superior performance that makes them the preferred choice for reliability in high-risk environments.

By choosing ACW flame-retardant materials, you are prioritizing safety, quality, and reliability. For more information about our flame-retardant webbing and cord or to place an order, please contact us