What Is a Heat-Resistant Glove?
Heat-resistant gloves serve as protective gear, shielding workers’ hands and arms from the risks associated with exposure to extreme temperatures, both high and low.
These gloves are crucial in research facilities dealing with temperature extremes and in industries where materials like resins, metals, and glass are melted, offering protection from burns and frostbite.
Materials such as cotton, silicone, aramid fiber, aluminum coatings, and polyurethane are used in their manufacture, chosen for their heat resistance and suitability for the specific working environment.
Uses of Heat-Resistant Gloves
High-temperature applications include food processing, glass manufacturing, steel production, and laboratory work, while low-temperature uses cover freezer operations, fishing, and handling liquid nitrogen.
In food processing, cooking gloves are employed for preparation, and oil-resistant silicone gloves prevent burns. Silicone gloves are preferred in food handling for their resistance to contamination, though they lack thermal insulation, necessitating the use of inner gloves for added protection.
Gloves used in glass and steel manufacturing need to withstand temperatures ranging from 500℃ to nearly 1,000℃, with those undergoing an aluminum vapor deposition process being highly sought after for their superior heat resistance.
For cold environments, such as in ice packing or outdoor work in the fishing industry, polyurethane gloves, which remain flexible at temperatures as low as -60°C, are common. Handling extremely cold liquids, such as liquid nitrogen, requires gloves durable to -196°C, typically used in laboratories and the biotech industry.
Characteristics of Heat-Resistant Gloves
The characteristics of heat-resistant gloves vary according to their material composition:
1. Cotton Material
Cotton gloves, used extensively in military applications, are highly absorbent and offer broad utility thanks to their heat resistance. Blends of cotton with polyester or rayon add features like wrinkle resistance and faster drying.
2. Silicone Material
Silicone gloves withstand temperatures above 200°C and are water-repellent, making them ideal for food industry and cleanroom applications due to their resistance to dust and contaminants.
3. Aramid Fiber
Aramid fibers, resistant up to 370°C, are noted for their flame resistance but are susceptible to degradation from UV exposure, acids, and alkalis.
4. Polyurethane Material
Polyurethane offers good elasticity and heat resistance up to 150°C, along with notable cold resistance, making it versatile for various applications.
5. Silica Fiber (Inorganic Fiber)
Silica fibers withstand temperatures between 600°C to 800°C, surpassing the capabilities of organic fibers for high-temperature applications.
Other Information on Heat-Resistant Gloves
1. Inspection of Heat-Resistant Gloves
Regular inspection is vital to ensure the effectiveness of heat-resistant gloves. Continuous use can lead to deterioration, potentially compromising their protective capabilities. Specifically, aramid fibers, which are susceptible to UV, acids, and alkalis, require careful inspection to maintain their integrity.
Proper management and pre-use checks are critical to avoid impairing the gloves’ fire retardant properties through wear, contamination, or improper maintenance.
2. Accident Cases Related to Burns
Despite the widespread use of heat-resistant gloves for safety, accidents can occur due to several factors:
- Failure to recognize hazards
- Undefined work procedures
- Lack of education on glove hazards and harmfulness
To mitigate risks, wearing the correct protective equipment and engaging in daily safety practices are essential. Awareness of potential dangers among workers and managers is key to preventing accidents.