ArcWear Rain Gear Product Use and Details

Is ArcJoule a full line (jacket, bibs, coveralls, pants), or just the jacket shown?

ArcJoule is a full line product offering a Jacket, Trench Coat, Bib Trousers and Waist Pants.

What are the specific item differences between 7501JFY102, 7501TFY102, and H7500FY?

7501JFY102 is a jacket with hood snaps to attach the H7500FY detachable hood that is packed with the jacket. The 7501TFY102 is a bib style overall used to make a complete suit with the jacket.

What temperatures / weather conditions is this best suited for (mild rain, cold weather, extreme storms)?

This product is designed to keep the wearer dry in heavy downpours as well as light mist. It is warm enough to wear in sub zero snow storms and breathable enough to wear during a mid-summer thunderstorm.

Is it designed to be worn over other FR garments, and if so, how much layering is recommended?

ArcJoule is designed to be the outermost layer of an FR layered clothing system. The first layer should be an FR base layer that fits tight and wicks moisture away from the body. An FR shirt and pant would be the next layer. For cold weather, an FR hoodie or sweatshirt could be worn over the FR shirt. Finally, the ArcJoule as the last layer providing a waterproof, windproof and breathable barrier to bad weather.

How does it perform in real world conditions like heavy rain, kneeling, or climbing?

ArcJoule has a durable water repellant (DWR) finish that allows the rain to bead up and roll off. This prevents the material from absorbing the rain (wetting out) causing the wearer to feel cold and wet. The material is tested under pressure, 30 psi, to ensure that even when kneeling or stretching, no moisture passes through.

ArcJoule Sizing and Fit

What is the full size range (XS to 5XL, long sizes, women’s cuts)?

ArcJoule is stocked in men’s sizes small – 5XL and women’s sizes sizes XS-2XL. We offer Long sizes which adds 2” to the sleeves and body of the jacket and the inseam of the bibs and pants.

How does the sizing actually fit: roomy, trim, or true to size?

As these are outerwear garments, they are designed with a roomyness to be worn over additional layers.

Are there fitting guidelines for wearing over existing uniforms or arc-rated clothing?

We offer a size chart to help provide guidance.

Are alterations or custom sizes available?

Custom styles and sizes are available as a make-to-order item.

ArcWear Comfort and Mobility

How does the garment feel in hot, humid conditions, given it is waterproof and arc rated?

 The ArcJoule is breathable which means as the body sweats, the moisture vapor is allowed to evaporate through the material, keeping the wearer comfortable.

How breathable is it compared to other NASCO lines or competitor products?

Breathability is measured by the amount of moisture transmitted through the material over a 24 hour period. The higher the number, the more breathable. Look for numbers exceeding 4000 g/m²/24 hrs.

Are there ventilation features (pit zips, back vents, mesh lining), or just breathable fabric?Pit zips and back vents provide opportunities for leaking. The breathable material will keep the wearer comfortable and dry.

Are there design features that aid mobility like gusseted underarms, articulated knees, or stretch panels?

Gusseted underarms and articulated joints are difficult to waterproof. The goal of this product is to keep the wearer dry.

ArcWear Safety, Ratings and Compliance

Does it meet the latest versions of NFPA 70E, ASTM F1891, ASTM F2733, and ANSI 107, or specific year revisions?

ArcJoule is designed to meet the latest versions of these critical performance safety standards.

What typical use cases match the arc rating of 11 cal/cm²? When would a higher level be needed?

Most gas and electric transmission and distribution applications, storm restoration, electric maintenance, meter servicing and line construction.

Are there any limitations (for example, not for molten metal, confined space, or certain chemicals)?

ArcJoule is not intended for long duration thermal exposures, molten metals, welding or chemical exposure.

Has the garment been tested for laundered performance over its life cycle, or only in new condition?

The performance safety standards require testing on material that has been conditioned (washed) five times. Additionally, the finished products have been laundered 25 times using home laundry equipment.

Durability, Care and Maintenance of ArcWear Rain Gear

What is the expected lifespan under normal utility or oil and gas usage?

Expected lifespan of the ArcJoule is three – five years.

How many laundering cycles can it withstand before performance degrades?

The ArcJoule has been through 25 laundry cycles. This does not indicate an end-of-life point. It is simply the point at which the laundry evaluation was completed.

Are there specific washing and drying instructions to maintain arc and FR performance?

Yes, machine wash, warm water, mild detergent, no bleach and line or tumble dry, no heat.

Is repair allowed, and if so, what repair standards or services are recommended?

NASCO offers factory repairs for most rips, tears and all instances of a failure in workmanship. Please contact customer service, 800-767-4288 to arrange for an RMA.

Chemical and Hazard Details for Arc Wear Rain Gear

What chemicals, specifically, has it been tested against?

No specific chemicals.

Is it for light incidental splash or more serious exposure?

Only indicated for light, incidental splash where immediate egress and removal is the work practice.

Are there any chemical incompatibilities (fuels, solvents, acids) that will damage the garment?

Most hydrocarbon based fuels and solvents must be laundered out soon after exposure. This product is not intended to be used where there is a known exposure to acids.

Integration With Your Industrial Gear

How exactly does the fall protection access work and what types of harnesses is it compatible with?

The fall protection access is intended to work with most harnesses. When possible, the D-ring can be exposed through the access or a pig-tail can be fed through the access.

Is it compatible with tool belts, FR hoods, hard hats, and gloves without compromising the ratings?

Yes, the waist of the jacket is designed so that it will not impede the access to a tool belt. The detachable hood with drawstring is intended to be worn over all styles of hard hats, including a bee keepers style.  The take up tabs at the sleeves are intended to cinch tight, allowing rubber gloves to still be worn.

Are there pockets, radio tabs, or mic loops for tools and communication devices? 

Two patch pockets on the jacket are designed to hold tools, gloves or cell phone.

Customization and Branding

What are the options for corporate branding (logo placement, max size, number of colors)?

NASCO has the ability to place a logo on jackets, coats, bibs and pants using a high quality heat transfer. This allows us to use single-color, full-color or even reflective material. Maximum width is 10” on the back and 4” on the front.

Does adding a logo or reflective emblem impact the arc rating or FR performance?

No, as long as NASCO applies the logo.

Are custom color accents or striping patterns available, or is fluorescent lime yellow the only option?

Complete customization is available including reflective trim placement, pocket types and placement, design features and accent colors (color blocking).

Purchasing, Logistics and Support

What is the typical lead time for orders, including custom branding?

Typical lead time for stock items is 3 days. 5 days for adding a logo and 6-8 weeks for customized items.

Are there minimum order quantities for custom logos or special sizes?

NASCO does not require minimum orders of any kind.

Is there a warranty or satisfaction guarantee, and what does it cover?

Our products are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship.  We will repair,  replace or refund the purchase price.

Are samples available for trial wear before a large purchase?

Yes, for samples please contact sales@nascoinc.com to make your request.

Is there a distributor network or preferred channels for different regions or industries?

Yes, NASCO sells through a nationwide network of distributors. Please contact sales@nascoinc.com to request a distributor near you.

Comparison and Justification

How does ArcJoule compare to other NASCO series or competitor garments in:

Arc rating: ArcJoule is CAT 2, 11 cal/cm² with the products in the industry ranging from 7 cal/cm² to 30 cal/cm².
Breathability: 4452 g/cm²/24 hrs. Data from competitive brands is not available publicly.
Durability: ArcJoule ranks high. Products in the market range from single use to 3 years.
Price: ArcJoule is the lowest cost, breathable FR rain suit in the market. It is at least 3% less than the next cheapest product and 16% less than another popular brand.

Are there any case studies, testimonials, or field test results from utilities or oil and gas companies?

Please contact sales@nascoinc.com to request end-user references.

What is the total cost of ownership advantage versus cheaper non-FR or single-hazard rainwear?

Typical imported FR or even non-FR PVC rainsuits do not last very long. The best of them would need to be replaced every 2-3 seasons.  The ArcJoule is expected to last at least 3 years which is 4-6 times longer but is less than 3 times more expensive. While the per unit cost is more, over the 3-5 year lifespan, the ArcJoule can save tens of thousands of dollars. Please contact sales@nascoinc.com to request our cost justification calculator.