Breakthrough technoiogy and the introduction of 'smarter' fabrics by Universal Carbon Fibres in Yorkshire to protect lives in work and sports is being used in the latest world land speed record attempt.
RAF Tornado pilot Squadron Leader Andrew Green will attempt to smash the world land speed record of 633mph when he takes the wheel of the 54ft supersonic Thrust SSC car later this year. And he will be protected against the event of fire by wearing a suit, underwear, balaclava and gloves made from the fire resistant material Panotex.
The fabric, made from a pre-burnt fibre called Panox which has all combustible elements removed, has been produced by Universal Carbon Fibres in Cleckheaton where they have been researching and developing fire resistant textiles for the last 15 years.
The outer suit has been given a liquid repellancy treatment which will not allow volatile liquids to be absorbed yet leaves the material highly breathable. The unique blending of fibres will give the driver as much comfort as possible in the searing heat of the desert as a result of the addition of fine quality wool to the mixture of his undersuit.
"We worked closely with Squadron Leader Green when the suit was designed - it had to be very close fitting but still allow mobility when he's prised into the cockpit," says Peter Burnell, Sales Executive at Universal Carbon Fibres.
"The suit has been farther modified with an extraction harness around the shoulder area with grab strap epaulettes, should he need to be brought out of the vehicle quickly."
At the forefront of change and innovation, the company is a member of the IPT Group, and has been instrumental in introducing new textiles for a myriad of industrial applications, from aircraft seats and side walls to industrial and military protective clothing.
The company has also provided two fire marshals with Panotex suits made from P15, an aluminised covered fabric, for maximum heat reflection with a fire resistant felt liner for added heat insulation.
After a test run in the desert in Jordon, Squadron Leader Green will attempt to break the sound barrier by reaching speeds above 850mph at Black Rock desert in Nevada. The project team is being led by Richard Noble, who became the fastest man on earth when he drove Thrust2 at 633.468mph 13 years ago.
Peter Burnell adds: "Whilst we have every confidence in the protection provided by the suits, we sincerely hope they are never needed and wish everyone involved with the project the very best of luck and a safe return with the 850mph record."
For further press information, please call:
Ann Swift or Sarah Spencer Tel: +44 (0)1484-689070 Fax: +44 (0)1484-689079
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