2oTrimestre16 | PROTECCIÓN LABORAL 87 Updated products Microfiber glove: goodbye to sweaty hands Market research illustrates the need to converge to the use of high abrasion resistant gloves that are lightweight (15 and 18 gauge) and comfortable to match workers needs for intricate handling within assembly applications. R&D department responds to the market and customers’ demands with new solution for workers whose actions range from general handling to precise assembling. They need an optimized grip and a maximum comfort during tasks which require an extended wear time, durable life and without sweating. Comfort & Protection At Showa believes that comfort is as important as the protection, which is why they have reduced the weight and have improved the efficiency for their new model. In order to offer this premium combination, they have engineered a microfibre fabric and have designed a glove with this fabric. The diameter of this microfibre is smaller than a strand of silk, which is itself already about 1/5 the diameter of a human hair. The most common types of microfibres are made from polyesters, polyamides or a conjugation of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene. Microfibre is used to make mats, knits, and weaves for apparel, upholstery, industrial filters, and cleaning products. The shape, size, and combinations of synthetic fibers are selected for specific characteristics, including softness, toughness, absorption, water repellency, electrostatics, and filtering capabilities. Microfibre fabrics have many qualities due to which they are preferred in many applications mostly for sport and cleaning, and they are: -Exceptional strength. -Breathable fabrics. -Comfort is similar to natural fibers and soft. -Very durable. -Can be easily maintained and cared for. -Retain their original shape. -Have good moisture wicking ability. -Light weight. On a whole, microfibres are high performance and low maintenance fabrics. Take workers comfort and protection to the next level To protect workers who move between tasks from general handling to intricate assembly, it requires high abrasion performance, dexterity, finger sensitivity and comfort. Showa 381 is the ideal multipurpose solution. It provides the lightest Showa microporous nitrile coated glove supported by a microfibre liner with an abrasion resistance up to level 4. Its design and comfort is further enhanced as breathability and moisture evacuation by 20% more than our standard offering. Showa developed in his R&D, following markets needs and trends a very light glove (19 gm) using microfibre (polyester and spandex) with a high abrasion resistance coating made of foamed nitrile. This glove offers, moreover the abrasion resistance, an excellent fitting due to optimal microfibre liner design and unique Showa ergonomic shape that replicates the natural curve of the human hand. Athletes often use this microfibre fabric to improve their performances during competitions and in order to reach their accomplishments, such as cycling jerseys, as it is a material that provides a high capacity to absorb sweat and water while avoiding irritation. The Showa 381 model is a combination of 2 technologies In the first place, the microporous nitrile coating grants exceptional grip while allowing warm air and moisture from inside to escape, thus maintaining your hands dry. In the second place, the microfibre liner absorbs quickly perspiration and moisture. This technology is comparable to capillary action. This natural phenomenon entails the capacity of a liquid to flow into narrow spaces without the assistance of, and in opposition to, external forces like gravity and evacuation. Besides this propriety is activated by the heat generated by your hand, which triggers natural vaporisation. The drying time is by 20% faster than our standard for cooler and dryer hands. Benefits: lighter and stronger The 0.84 mm finger thickness provides an excellent level of tactility and sensitivity combine with a level 4 to abrasion (EN 388 : 4121) it provides an exceptional suppleness, ultra-comfort and hand fitting thanks to the combination of microfibre and spandex. The Microfibre properties boost vapour permeation and enhances breathability thus drier hands and less sweat. It is designed to be used in general handling, assembly dry and oily parts, handling of small / fine parts, maintenance, power tooling and gardening By using this fibre for gloves for the first time, your hands will benefit from the same advantages and comfort of these sportsmen with no compromise to safety. 65