Austria-based Pfanner Schutzbekleidung GmbH is having the headband for its Protos Headset Integral manufactured by KRAIBURG TPE.
2020 Pfanner Schutzbekleidung
KRAIBURG TPE supplying skin-friendly TPE for innovative Protos headset
From forestry and agriculture, to construction and air rescue services, PPE has to have a comfortable, lightweight and practical design.
A high-performance compound from KRAIBURG TPE’s VS/AD/HM THERMOLAST K series was therefore selected for the headband of the Protos Headset Integral, developed by Westcam (Mils, Austria) and distributed by Pfanner Schutzbekleidung.
In addition to its velvety surface (VS), outstanding adhesion (AD) and high mechanical (HM) properties, this high-tech TPE offers a wide range of design freedom and cost-effective processing.
Martin Greber, Head of Development at Westcam, said: “We already had very good experience with a thermoplastic elastomer from KRAIBURG TPE that was used for the visor of the Protos Integral Safety Helmet … The adhesive strength of this hard/soft application has already been tried and tested many times in practical use, and that was why THERMOLAST K was also shortlisted for the wire/TPE and ABS/TPE combinations in the headset from the start.”
The clips are made of an ABS copolymer with a TPE injection moulded on the inside for reliable insulation. The TPE’s texture makes the headband and clips pressure-free and comfortable.
The selected THERMOLAST K compound combines a hardness of 60 Shore A with high tensile strength, tear strength and breaking strength. The wear-resistant surface has long-term resistance to sebum, creams and common household detergents. In addition, the TPE meets the requirements of ISO 10993-10 for irritation-free tolerability of materials for applications that are in contact with skin.
The Protos Headset Integral was developed for capsule ear protection, with the advantages of a modular structure and compact size with minimal protrusion when worn and a small packing size when folded. All materials in the headset have been tailored to suit its function.