
As a quick reminder, a PCM is "phase change material" (PCM) that is a substance that can absorb or release a large amount of heat energy during a phase transition, like changing from a solid to a liquid state, while maintaining a relatively constant temperature within a specific range, essentially acting as a thermal energy storage mechanism; it essentially stores heat by changing its physical state, not just by increasing temperature
What makes a PCM a key part of any personal #activecooling product line is that it does not rely on airflow to work, so it is one of a few cost effective solutions for keeping someone cool in enclosed areas or in heavy PPE such as a hazmat suit, or in high humidity areas.
When considering whether or not to use a PCM solution versus an evaporative cooling solution consider these variables.
The environment. If you can expect humidity at greater than 80-85% evaporative cooling will not be effective and it is probably best to go with a PCM solution.
If the work area has little to no airflow such as in the belly of an airplane or when wearing a hazmat suit, it is probably best to go with a PCM solution
If one of the two above situations is in play and the user can wear a bulkier cooling vest, it is probably best to go with a PCM solution.
These three questions are the essential ones to ask yourself whenever you are trying to find the right personal cooling solution, whether working indoors or outdoors, to maximize #performance and productivity. These questions are the right ones to ask when trying to find a solution for #heatfatigue and #heatstress risks in the workplace. As a result, they also present a convincing explanation as to why any heat stress line of #workwear products needs a PCM solution as part of the product line.


So now that you know you need a PCM #coolingsolution, how do you decide which PCM is right for you? Of course, it starts with understanding your target market, in this case, I will focus on the Industrial Safety market. You need to consider durability, duration, modularity, cost and weight when selecting your PCM solution.
Tune in next week when we discuss how to select your PCM to meet these variables.
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