3M Scotchlite Reflective Material Stands Up to Rigorous Heat Endurance Testings

Firefighter safety and visibility are top priorities during a fire emergency, as first responders are required to perform a range of duties from battling fires to executing searches and rescues to scene and traffic control.  That’s why 3M, a leader in innovative reflective technology, designed 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material – Series 9500 Fire Coat Trim, a high-visibility solution that withstands extreme heat conditions before, during and after the demanding duties of a firefighter’s job. 

3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material – Series 9500 Fire Coat Trim is the latest example of how 3M combines innovative technologies with industry needs.  Appropriate for NFPA compliant turn out gear, the premium trim ensures that firefighters are equipped with the high-visibility safety material needed to withstand extreme heat conditions. 

Leading the Way in Technology:  A Demonstration in Quality:
To demonstrate that 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material – Series 9500 Fire Coat Trim is the best solution for added protection and visibility, it was examined in a heat endurance test against another trim product,  at 260°C (500°F) for 5 minutes.* Here are the results:

3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material – Series 9500 Fire Coat Trim:
•    Maintained its shape, appearance, flexibility, nighttime visibility and durability
•    Continued to provide exceptional nighttime visibility, even under extreme heat of 260°C (500°F) for five minutes
•    Maintained a brightness measurement of over 500 cd/lux/m² after three minutes in the heat test
•    Maintained a brightness of over  350 cd/lux/m² throughout the five minute heat test

While both products met the NFPA’s Heat and Thermal Shrinkage requirements, the technological leader was clear in the results, as the comparative trim found the product turned black and brittle; deformed and curled; and its brightness went to zero.

*The test was based on the Heat and Thermal Shrinkage Test of NFPA 1971–20071, which states: “Trim shall not melt, separate, drip or ignite when tested for heat and thermal shrinkage at 260 °C (500 °F) for 5 minutes.”