PBI is the lightest outer shell system certified for USAR operations at only 5 oz./yd.2. Not only is it by far the most comfortable fabric for USAR operations, it also has PBI's ultimate flash protection plus TurtleSkin's rugged durability and puncture resistance.
Now Certified to NFPA Standards 1951, 1977, 1999
While PBI TurtleSkin is the lightest and softest fabric ever certified for USAR, it is also the most puncture resistant.
Magnification Comparison of Fabrics
In the magnifications below, you can see the tighter weave of PBI TurtleSkin compared to the looser weave of ordinary USAR material. The advanced weave of PBI TurtleSkin results in greater protection, less weight, and increased durability in USAR garments.
| PBI TurtleSkin
|
Ordinary USAR Fabric
|
|
• Smooth, soft feel
• Light Weight: 5 oz./yd.2
• Excellent flash resistance
• Highest puncture resistance: 9.6 pound-force
• Patented tight weave
• Provides better durability |
|
• Coarse feel
• Heavy Weight: 6 oz./yd.2
• Low flash resistance
• Low puncture resistance: 3.8 pound-force
• Loose weave leaves holes that snag and tear |
Patented Protection
Unlike low-tech fabrics, PBI TurtleSkin is made with a new patented technology that produces an extremely tight weave using ultra protective PBI fiber. The result is a smoother, more durable, lightweight shell fabric with superior flash and electric arc protection that sets a new standard for USAR outer shell puncture resistance and comfort.
| NFPA Test |
Requirement |
PBI TurtleSkin |
| Breaking Strength |
> = 70 lb. |
120 x 124 lb. |
| Abrasion Resistance |
> = 50 lb. |
76 x 150 lb. |
| Tear Resistance |
> = 5 lb. |
15 x 15 lb. |
| Cleaning Shrinkage |
< = 5% |
5 x 0 % |
| Flame Resistance |
< = 4" char |
1.7" x 1.4" |
| Heat Resistance |
> 500F |
Pass |
| Thermal Shrinkage |
< 10% |
Pass |
| Spray Resistance |
> = 80 |
90 |
PBI TurtleSkin combines Warwick Mills' patented TurtleSkin puncture technology with the ultimate flash protection and flexibility of PBI fibers to provide the lightest, most comfortable garments for NFPA 1951 USAR Operations.
In addition, PBI TurtleSkin provides a new level of puncture resistance to better protect USAR personnel from injuries caused by glass, metal, or other sharp objects.
