FIRST IN THE WORLD TO OFFER PFAS-FREE FLAME RETARDANT CLOTHING WITH CHEMICAL PROTECTION

In 2021 Tranemo launched Cantex Weld Stretch (WS), the world’s first inherently flame retardant collection that provides chemical protection to EN 13034 and is completely PFAS-free. The collection offers the highest level of protection against splashes of molten metal and exceeds the requirements for heavy welding according EN ISO 11611 class 2.

Since being founded in 1934, Tranemo has been managed with a clear focus on sustainability and creating protective clothing that is designed to last. The launch of Cantex WS with a fluorocarbon-free treatment is another important milestone in Tranemo’s commitment to innovative and sustainable product development.

“This is a step in the right direction and it opens up new opportunities for us. We have been actively working to find a fluorocarbon-free alternative that meets our high standards of safety and environmental performance for several years. Cantex WS is a result of that work and we are proud to announce it today,” says Max Larsson, CEO of Tranemo.

The innovative Cantex WS is a new generation of inherently flame retardant Cantex garments for the metal working industry. In Cantex WS, Tranemo has combined advanced material technology that is totally free from fluorocarbons, with properties that have become synonymous with Tranemo – outstanding safety features and long service life.

“This is more about evolution than revolution. With the new Cantex WS collection we have refined and enhanced many features that are important to users, whilst maximising environmental performance at the same time. Cantex WS brings us a step closer to our

ambition to reduce the use of PFAS in our products,” says Max Larsson.

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used in the textile industry for a long time to protect textiles from moisture, grease and dirt. However, these substances break down extremely slowly and therefore have negative effects on the environment and health.

Tranemo sees great potential in the newly developed technology, which eliminates the need for treatment with fluorocarbons without affecting the overall level of protection of garments. This makes the collection a pioneering commitment to innovation and the first of its kind on the market.

“We have already completed all the necessary tests, with promising results. The next step is to monitor how the collection performs in real-life applications. This will provide us with valuable feedback for implementing the technology in our other products,” says Max Larsson.

“With the launch of Cantex WS we are taking our sustainability efforts to the next level. It feels inspiring to come up with innovative solutions that have less impact on the environment without compromising on the level of protection. Cantex WS takes us closer to our goal of gradually phasing out fluorocarbons from our products,” says Nieke Sarink, Sustainability Manager at Tranemo.