Functions of Anti-Impact Gloves
Anti-impact gloves are designed to protect hands from injuries caused by impact and vibration. Their primary functions include:
- Impact Absorption: They use specialized padding (e.g., thermoplastic rubber, gel, or shock-absorbing foam) to absorb and disperse impact forces, reducing direct pressure on the hands.
- Vibration Damping: These gloves help minimize the effects of repetitive vibrations, which is crucial in tasks involving heavy machinery.
- Multi-Hazard Protection: They often provide protection against abrasion, cuts, punctures, and even thermal hazards.
- Enhanced Grip: Many models include features like textured palm patches to improve grip in oily or wet conditions.
Materials for Anti-Impact Gloves
The materials used in anti-impact gloves are selected for their durability, flexibility, and protective qualities:
- Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR): Commonly used for padding due to its shock-absorbing properties.
- High-Strength Fabrics: Materials like Kevlar® provide cut resistance and durability.
- Synthetic Leather and Rubber Composites: These materials offer flexibility and protection in high-risk environments.
- Shear Stiffening Gel: Advanced composites that enhance impact resistance while maintaining flexibility.
- Reinforced Coatings: Materials like DURAtech® coating improve abrasion resistance.
Applications of Anti-Impact Gloves
Anti-impact gloves are essential in industries where hand injuries are common due to high-impact tasks:
- Construction and Demolition: Protection against impacts from tools and materials.
- Manufacturing and Assembly: Safeguarding hands during machinery operation.
- Oil and Gas Industry: Protection in oily or wet conditions with heavy machinery.
- Mining: Resistance to rough materials and high-force impacts.
- Automotive and Mechanical Repair: Protection against abrasions and impacts from tools.
- Warehousing and Logistics: Handling heavy packages and equipment.
- Carpentry, Plumbing, and Electrical Work: Protection against cuts and impacts during tool use.
International Standards for Anti-Impact Gloves
Several standards govern the design and performance of anti-impact gloves:
- ANSI/ISEA 105: Used in the U.S. for measuring cut resistance.
- EN388: European standard for testing cut, abrasion, tear, and puncture resistance.
- GB 24541-2022: Chinese standard for mechanical hazard protection, including impact resistance.
- OSHA 1910.138: U.S. regulation requiring appropriate hand protection based on task hazards.
Well-Known Brands of Anti-Impact Gloves
Several brands are recognized for their high-quality anti-impact gloves:
- HexArmor: Known for durability and comfort.
- Ansell: Offers models like the HyFlex® 11-290 with INTERCEPT™ technology.
- Mechanix Wear: Combines style with protection.
- Ironclad: Provides heavy-duty gloves with heat and impact resistance.
- Youngstown Glove Company: Known for flame-resistant and impact-resistant gloves.
- Superior Glove: Offers high-performance gloves for industrial use.
- Ergodyne: Focuses on ergonomic design for user comfort.
Most Popular Models of Anti-Impact Gloves
Here are some notable models:
- Ansell HyFlex® 11-290 with INTERCEPT™: Features ergonomic design, ANSI A5 cut protection, and heat resistance.
- MCR Safety – 9388NF: ANSI A6 cut protection with reinforced thumb crotch dip.
- ATG® Gloves – MaxiFlex® Cut™: Includes AIRtech® for breathability and DURAtech® coating for abrasion resistance.
- Portwest A729 Anti-Impact Thermal Gloves: Combines impact protection with resistance to abrasions and cold.
- NJORD Anti-Impact Gloves: Certified to cut resistance level 5 according to EN388.
- KONG Original Gloves: Your powerful hand parter in oil & gas.