Portwest Modaflame Knit FR Full Zip Sweatshirt

The Portwest FR738 Modaflame Knit FR Full Zip Sweatshirt combines exceptional flame resistant protection with the comfort and convenience of a modern zip-through design. Constructed from inherently flame resistant Modaflame Knit fabric, this sweatshirt delivers permanent protection that never diminishes regardless of how many times it is laundered. The full zip front provides easy on-off access while maintaining comprehensive safety coverage for workers in hazardous environments.

Featuring a 300g Modaflame Knit construction, this sweatshirt offers outstanding arc flash protection with certified performance to IEC 61482-2 standards. The fabric blend of 60% modacrylic, 39% cotton, and 1% carbon fibre creates a garment that is both protective and comfortable, with the high cotton content ensuring breathability and a soft hand feel against the skin. The integrated carbon fibre provides permanent anti-static properties, making this sweatshirt suitable for ATEX environments where electrostatic discharge poses a risk.

The practical design includes two generous front pockets that provide secure storage for tools and personal items while doubling as hand warmers during colder conditions. Ribbed cuffs and hem ensure a snug, comfortable fit that retains warmth without restricting movement. The full-length zip with protective storm flap allows for easy temperature regulation throughout the working day, whether worn as a standalone layer or as part of a multi-layer FR system.

Certified to multiple international safety standards, the FR738 offers protection against radiant, convective, and contact heat, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. From electrical utilities and oil and gas facilities to welding operations and manufacturing environments, this versatile sweatshirt delivers the multi-hazard protection demanded by safety-conscious professionals. The 40+ UPF rating provides additional protection for outdoor workers by blocking 98% of harmful UV rays.

Key Features & Benefits

Inherent Flame Resistance

• Modaflame Knit fabric with permanent FR properties built into the fibre structure
• Flame resistance never washes out or diminishes over time
• Modacrylic fibres are naturally difficult to ignite and self-extinguishing
• Protection against radiant, convective, and contact heat
• Guaranteed FR performance for the life of the garment

Arc Flash Protection

• IEC 61482-2 certified for arc flash hazards
• IEC 61482-1-1: ELIM 9.2 CAL/CM², ATPV 15 CAL/CM² (open arc test)
• IEC 61482-2 IEC 61482-1-2: APC Class 1 (box test)
• Suitable for electrical work and utility environments
• Protection during arc flash incidents

Anti-Static Properties

• EN 1149-5 certified anti-static performance
• 1% carbon fibre content provides inherent static dissipation
• Suitable for ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 2 explosive atmospheres
• Prevents dangerous electrostatic discharge
• Permanent anti-static protection woven into fabric

Premium Modaflame Knit Construction

• 60% Modacrylic, 39% Cotton, 1% Carbon Fibre
• 300g/m² (9oz) fabric weight for warmth without bulk
• High cotton content ensures superior comfort and breathability
• Soft hand feel for all-day wearing comfort
• Strong, durable construction for demanding work environments

Practical Full Zip Design

• Full-length front zip for easy on-off access
• Convenient temperature regulation throughout the day
• Works as standalone or layering piece
• Easy to remove quickly in emergency situations
• Professional appearance suitable for various work settings

Comfort Features

• Ribbed hem for secure, comfortable fit
• Ribbed cuffs that retain warmth and prevent ride-up
• Comfort fit design allows freedom of movement
• 2 front pockets for secure storage and hand warming
• Lightweight feel despite comprehensive protection

UV Protection

• 40+ UPF rated fabric
• Blocks 98% of harmful UV rays
• Essential protection for outdoor workers
• Helps prevent sun damage during extended exposure

Quality Certifications

• CE-CAT III: Complex Design Personal Protective Equipment
• CE certified for European compliance
• UKCA marked for UK market
• ATEX environment approved
• Tested to multiple international standards

Technical Specifications

Safety Standards & Certifications

The Portwest FR738 Modaflame Knit FR Full Zip Sweatshirt is certified to multiple international safety standards:

Anti-Static:

• EN 1149-5 – Electrostatic properties (material performance requirements)

Arc Flash Protection:

• IEC 61482-2 – Arc flash protection
• IEC 61482-1-1 – Open arc test: ELIM 9.2 CAL/CM², ATPV 15 CAL/CM²
• IEC 61482-1-2 APC Class 1 – Box test arc protection class

Flame Resistance:

• EN ISO 11612 (expected based on Modaflame Knit range standards)
• A1: Limited flame spread (surface ignition)
• B1: Convective heat resistance
• C1: Radiant heat resistance
• F1: Contact heat resistance

Additional Certifications:

• CE-CAT III – Complex Design Personal Protective Equipment
• UKCA Marked – UK Conformity Assessed
• 40+ UPF – Ultraviolet Protection Factor
• ATEX Suitable – Approved for explosive atmosphere environments

Understanding Modaflame Knit Technology

Modaflame Knit represents Portwest's advanced inherently flame resistant fabric technology, specifically engineered for multi-hazard protection:

Inherent vs Treated FR Unlike chemically treated fabrics where flame resistance can wash out over time, Modaflame Knit uses inherently flame resistant modacrylic fibres. The FR properties are built into the fibre structure itself, meaning protection is permanent and consistent throughout the garment's entire working life. There is no gradual loss of protection, no need to monitor wash cycles, and no risk of compromised safety.

The Modacrylic Advantage Modacrylic fibres are naturally difficult to ignite and self-extinguishing when the ignition source is removed. When exposed to flame, the fibres form a protective char that insulates the underlying skin from heat rather than melting or dripping like synthetic alternatives. This characteristic makes modacrylic-based fabrics among the safest options for flame-exposed workers.

Carbon Fibre Anti-Static The 1% carbon fibre content woven throughout the fabric provides permanent anti-static properties. Unlike surface treatments that can wear away with use and washing, the carbon fibre dissipates static charge continuously and reliably. This makes Modaflame Knit suitable for ATEX-classified explosive atmospheres where static discharge could trigger ignition.

High Cotton Content The 39% cotton content ensures the fabric remains soft, breathable, and comfortable against the skin. Cotton's natural moisture management properties help regulate body temperature and prevent the clammy feeling associated with some synthetic FR fabrics. This high cotton content makes Modaflame Knit sweatshirts comfortable for extended wear.

300g Construction The 300g/m² (9oz) fabric weight provides warmth suitable for cooler conditions and transitional seasons without excessive bulk. This makes the FR738 ideal as a mid-layer during winter or a standalone outer layer in milder temperatures.

Understanding Arc Flash Protection

Arc flash is one of the most serious electrical hazards, capable of causing severe burns, hearing damage, and even fatalities. The FR738's arc flash certification provides critical protection:

What is Arc Flash? An arc flash occurs when electrical current flows through an air gap between conductors or from a conductor to a grounded surface. This creates an explosive release of energy that can reach temperatures of up to 35,000°F (19,000°C) – hotter than the surface of the sun. The resulting blast can cause severe burns, ignite clothing, and propel molten metal fragments.

ELIM Rating Explained The ELIM (Energy Limit Value) of 9.2 CAL/CM² represents the maximum incident energy at which the fabric has a 50% probability of causing a second-degree burn. Higher ELIM values indicate greater protection. The FR738's 9.2 CAL/CM² rating provides solid protection for many electrical work scenarios.

ATPV Rating The ATPV (Arc Thermal Performance Value) of 15 CAL/CM² indicates the incident energy level at which there is a 50% probability that sufficient heat transfer through the fabric will cause the onset of a second-degree burn. This rating helps safety managers select appropriate PPE for specific arc flash hazard levels.

APC Class 1 The APC (Arc Protection Class) 1 rating from the box test method indicates the garment provides baseline arc protection. This classification is suitable for many electrical maintenance and operational tasks.

Ideal Applications & Industries

The Portwest FR738 Modaflame Knit FR Full Zip Sweatshirt is ideal for professionals in:

• Electrical Utilities – Power generation, transmission, and distribution work
• Oil & Gas – Refineries, petrochemical plants, offshore platforms, drilling operations
• Welding & Hot Works – Fabrication shops, shipyards, manufacturing facilities
• Manufacturing – Steel mills, foundries, metal processing, automotive
• Chemical Processing – Chemical plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Mining – Underground and surface mining operations
• Telecommunications – Infrastructure maintenance and installation
• Construction – Electrical contractors, multi-hazard construction sites
• Maintenance & Engineering – Industrial plant maintenance, facilities management
• Utilities – Gas distribution, water treatment facilities

Full Zip Design Advantages

The full zip design of the FR738 offers several practical advantages over pullover alternatives:

Easy Access The full-length zip allows the sweatshirt to be put on and removed quickly without disturbing hard hats, safety glasses, or other PPE. This is particularly valuable when workers need to add or remove layers throughout the day as conditions change.

Temperature Regulation The zip can be partially opened for ventilation during physical activity or in warmer conditions, then closed for maximum warmth when needed. This versatility makes the FR738 suitable across a wider range of temperatures than fixed-closure alternatives.

Emergency Removal In emergency situations, a zip-front garment can be removed much more quickly than a pullover, which could be critical if the garment becomes contaminated or ignited.

Layering Compatibility The full zip design makes it easy to layer over other FR garments such as polo shirts or t-shirts, and under FR jackets or coveralls, without bunching or restriction.

Professional Appearance The clean zip-front design offers a professional appearance suitable for site visits, meetings, and customer-facing roles while maintaining full FR protection.

Layering System

The FR738 functions excellently within a comprehensive FR layering system:

As Mid-Layer: Wear over Modaflame Knit FR polo shirts or t-shirts (FR805, FR806) for enhanced thermal protection during cooler conditions. The zip-front design layers easily without bunching.

As Outer Layer: In mild to cool conditions, the FR738 works well as a standalone outer layer, providing warmth and protection without the bulk of a jacket.

Under FR Outerwear: Layer under FR jackets or coveralls during cold weather for maximum thermal protection. The 300g fabric adds significant warmth without excessive bulk.

Important Layering Note: When layering FR garments, ALL layers must be flame resistant. Never wear non-FR garments underneath FR clothing, as they can melt, ignite, or contribute to injury severity in a thermal incident. The FR738 pairs well with other Portwest Modaflame products for comprehensive head-to-toe protection.

Recommended Layering Partners:

• FR805/FR806 Modaflame Knit FR Polo/T-Shirt (base layer)
• FR81 Modaflame Knit Zip Front Hooded Sweatshirt (alternative mid-layer with hood)
• FR Jackets and Coveralls (outer layer for cold/wet conditions)
• Modaflame FR Trousers (lower body protection)

Care Instructions

To maintain optimal protection, comfort, and longevity:

• Machine wash at maximum 40°C, normal process
• Use mild detergent – avoid fabric softeners and bleach
• Do not bleach
• Do not tumble dry
• Line dry away from direct heat
• Iron at maximum 110°C if required
• Do not dry clean
• Inspect garment regularly for damage, wear, or contamination
• Replace garment if fabric shows signs of damage, heavy soiling, or contamination
• Follow any additional care instructions on garment label

Why Proper Care Matters: While Modaflame Knit's inherent FR properties never wash out, proper care ensures the fabric maintains its integrity, fit, and appearance. Avoid harsh chemicals, high temperatures, and tumble drying to preserve the garment's protective characteristics and extend its service life.

Why Choose Portwest FR738?

Portwest has been manufacturing protective workwear since 1904, and the Modaflame range represents their commitment to innovation and quality. When you choose the FR738, you're investing in:

• Permanent FR Protection – Inherent flame resistance that never washes out
• Arc Flash Safety – IEC 61482-2 certified with ELIM 9.2 CAL/CM², ATPV 15 CAL/CM²
• Anti-Static Properties – EN 1149-5 certified for explosive atmospheres
• ATEX Approved – Suitable for Zone 1 and Zone 2 environments
• Superior Comfort – High cotton content and soft knit construction
• Practical Design – Full zip access with 2 pocket storage
• UV Protection – 40+ UPF rating for outdoor workers
• Proven Quality – CE-CAT III and UKCA certified
• Professional Appearance – Suitable for customer-facing roles
• Value for Money – Professional-grade protection at competitive pricing

Companion Products

For complete Modaflame FR protection, consider pairing the FR738 with:

• FR805 Modaflame Knit FR Long Sleeve Polo Shirt – Professional base layer
• FR806 Modaflame Knit FR Long Sleeve T-Shirt – Casual base layer
• FR81 Modaflame Knit Zip Front Hooded Sweatshirt – Alternative with hood
• FR759 Modaflame Knit FR Women's Sweatshirt – Ladies' fit option
• Modaflame FR Trousers – Lower body FR protection
• Modaflame FR Coveralls – Full body protection
• FR Jackets – Weather protection with FR performance