Gloves that protect from hydraulic fluids are indispensable safety gear for individuals working with hydraulic systems or exposed to hydraulic fluids. These gloves provide a critical barrier against potential hazards, ensuring the well-being of users in various industrial settings.
The design and materials used in these gloves are meticulously engineered to withstand the unique properties of hydraulic fluids, offering protection against chemical exposure, abrasions, and punctures. Understanding the different types of gloves available, their performance standards, and proper care is essential for selecting the most suitable gloves for specific applications.
1. Glove Materials
Gloves that protect from hydraulic fluids are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common materials include:
- Nitrile: Nitrile is a synthetic rubber that is resistant to a wide range of hydraulic fluids, including petroleum-based oils, water-based fluids, and solvents. It is also puncture-resistant and abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for heavy-duty applications.
- Butyl: Butyl is a synthetic rubber that is highly resistant to hydraulic fluids, including high-pressure fluids and corrosive fluids. It is also flame-resistant and ozone-resistant, making it a good choice for applications where there is a risk of fire or chemical exposure.
- Neoprene: Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is resistant to a wide range of hydraulic fluids, including petroleum-based oils, water-based fluids, and solvents. It is also flexible and comfortable to wear, making it a good choice for applications where dexterity is important.
- PVC: PVC is a synthetic plastic that is resistant to a wide range of hydraulic fluids, including petroleum-based oils, water-based fluids, and solvents. It is also puncture-resistant and abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for heavy-duty applications.
2. Glove Design Features: Gloves That Protect From Hydraulic Fluids
The design of gloves that protect from hydraulic fluids is critical to their effectiveness. Key design features include:
- Cuff length: The cuff length of a glove determines how much of the forearm is protected. Gloves with longer cuffs provide more protection, but they can also be more restrictive. Gloves with shorter cuffs are less restrictive, but they provide less protection.
- Glove thickness: The thickness of a glove determines how much protection it provides. Gloves with thicker walls provide more protection, but they can also be more cumbersome. Gloves with thinner walls are less cumbersome, but they provide less protection.
- Grip pattern: The grip pattern on a glove helps to prevent the glove from slipping when handling hydraulic fluids. Gloves with a textured grip pattern provide more grip, but they can also be more abrasive.
- Seams: The seams of a glove can be a weak point where hydraulic fluids can leak through. Gloves with seamless construction are more resistant to leaks, but they can also be more expensive.
3. Glove Performance Standards
Gloves that protect from hydraulic fluids are tested and certified to meet industry standards. The most common standards include:
- ASTM F739: ASTM F739 is a standard that sets forth the performance requirements for gloves that protect from hydraulic fluids. Gloves that meet this standard are resistant to a wide range of hydraulic fluids, including petroleum-based oils, water-based fluids, and solvents.
- EN 374: EN 374 is a European standard that sets forth the performance requirements for gloves that protect from chemicals. Gloves that meet this standard are resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including hydraulic fluids.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the different materials used in gloves that protect from hydraulic fluids?
Common materials include nitrile, neoprene, PVC, and leather, each offering varying levels of resistance to chemicals, abrasions, and punctures.
How do I determine the appropriate performance standard for my gloves?
Industry standards such as EN 374 and ASTM F739 provide guidance on the levels of protection offered by gloves against specific chemicals and hazards.
What are the key design features to look for in gloves that protect from hydraulic fluids?
Ergonomic design, non-slip grip, and extended cuffs are essential features that enhance comfort, dexterity, and protection.
