In a steel mill environment, the coexistence of moisture and hot metal creates an inherent risk of molten metal splash across all phases of iron and steel production. These hot metal splashes act like a vapor explosion, with liquid metal projected at temperatures exceeding 1,500°C. When hot metal is exposed to open air, the water or vapor transformation can cause a volume increase by a factor of 1,700, generating pressure waves.

When reducing metal comes into contact with moisture, it can lead to oxidation of the metal and generate hydrogen in the environment. Hydrogen burns as it is being produced and can cause a powerful explosion. Explosions can also result from combustion with the oxygen contained in the air.

The latest versions of PROBAN® FR fabrics, engineered for steel mill workers, are designed to deliver unquestionable protection against molten metal splashes. They also address obvious heat-stress-related issues in steel mills, where temperatures can exceed 50°C in the mill.