Flame resistant fabrics are designated as either inherently flame resistant or flame retardant treated.
Inherently flame resistant fabrics are made of fibers whose chemical composition prevents the support of combustion and will self-extinguish when the flame is removed.
FLAME RETARDANT (FR) TREATED FABRICS
These fabrics, usually made of natural fibers, e.g. cotton, wool, and flax, are chemically treated to provide a greater level of resistance to flame impingement than the untreated fabric can provide.
These two groups of FR fabrics demonstrate a range of performance characteristics. However, the common link for both types is to provide protection. For a manufacturer to produce finished garments, FR fabrics must first be cut into component parts which are then sewn together with FR sewing thread to produce shirts, trousers, coveralls, etc. The sewing threads most commonly used to manufacture FR protective clothing are made of aramid fibers.
SEWING THREAD CONSTRUCTION
Sewing threads made of aramid fibers are available in three types:
- Continuous Filament (CF)
- Variegated Length Long Staple (VLLS)
- Short staple (cotton system spun yarn)
Each type of sewing thread has distinct characteristics that you need to consider when selecting the type of thread to use for each particular application.
WHAT ARE CRAQ-SPUN® AR SEWING THREADS?
CRAQ-SPUN® is the Atlantic Thread trademark for variegated length long staple (VLLS) sewing threads.
This spinning system is used to produce a superior sewing thread with strength and sewing characteristics of both continuous filament and short staple spun.
VLLS sewing threads have break strength, just below continuous filament, along with the sewability of either spun poly or core spun threads.