Extra Inserts for Phase Change Vests
Unlike frozen water or gel products, the Phase Change Material maintains a consistent temperature of 58F/14C and expels energy at a constant temperature during its transition from a solid to a liquid. This ensures that the user receives a constant, cooling temperature throughout the entire 2-3 hour period. For use in Phase Change Cooling Vest, Hydration Vest and NOMEX and INDURA fabric vests.
Phase Change Inserts vs. Ice Inserts
| Phase Change Inserts | Water/Gel Inserts
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| Time To Freeze | Approx. 30 Minutes | Approx. 180 Minutes
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| Time To Thaw | Approx. 120 Minutes | Approx. 60 Minutes
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| Temperature | 58F/14C (Comfortable) | 31F/0C (Too Cold)
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| Temperature Consistency | Constant 58F/14C | None
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| How To Freeze | Freezer, Refrigerator,
or Ice Water | Freezer Only
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| Insert Weight | 15 oz/Insert
(Less Than 4lbs/Vest) | 20 oz
(5 lbs/Vest)
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|---|
| Condensation | No | Yes
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| Solid Phase | Soft | Hard
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| Re-Usable | Yes | Yes
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| Non-Toxic | Yes | Yes
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| Physiological Concerns | None | Vasoconstriction
Hypersensitivity
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|---|
The Phase Change Material developed by TechNiche International is comprised of a proprietary blend of alkanes with unique thermal properties. The physical state of this blend, is determined by the external temperature:
- Above 58F/14C Liquid
- Below 58F/14C Solid
This means that if the inserts are placed in ice water (below 58F/14C), the Phase Change Material is forced to release energy and solidifies. Unlike water, while in the solid state, the Phase Change Material remains at a constant temperature of 58F/14C until it absorbs enough energy from the external environment to return to a liquid state. Our vests incorporate 4 insert pouches weighing a total of 4½ lbs. This amount of Phase Change Material will remain at 58F/14C for approximately 2-3 hours. At this point, the material has absorbed a sufficient amount of energy (i.e. heat) and will return to a liquid state where the temperature will begin rising congruently with the external environment. The inserts can then be "re-charged" by placing them in ice water or a refrigerator or freezer.
Additionally, the phase change inserts, which are 6" wide and 14" tall are VERY durable. They can withstand over 1,000 lbs of pressure, however ballistics tests have not been conducted on them. The US Army's Safety & Health Division has reviewed the Phase Change Cooling Inserts for deployment under military body armor and the inserts were "recommended for implementation without restriction". |
