Alternative power arrangements in the form of heavy-duty generators and batteries are essential for engineers working at sites for project execution to render humanitarian aid to people facing natural disasters. The working conditions can be very challenging and very often the people involved need to be working even when it is raining or snowing hard or the area is flooded. This makes it critical for the power equipment to be protected well from the elements. In this context, heavy-duty PVC tarps find great popularity in the field for protecting sensitive equipment from rain, snow, dirt, fire, etc.
Advantages of PVC Tarpaulin
PVC tarpaulins are manufactured out of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) which is a very strong material capable of functioning at its peak performance in a very wide range of temperatures and environmental conditions. The synthetic nature of the material, the very high mesh count, and special coatings applied to them ensure that they are completely waterproof with outstanding mechanical strength. PVC tarpaulins are extremely robust with very high resistance to cracking, tearing, and tear elongation. The treatment with special chemicals can make PVC tarps fireproof, UV radiation-proof, heat-resistant, etc. that can be very useful in protecting generators and battery packs operating for long durations in the field. According to https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org, PVC has inherent flame-retardant properties making it suitable for diverse uses.
Waterproof or Water-Resistant, Which to Choose?
In terms of performance, there is a lot of difference between waterproof tarpaulins and those that are water-resistant. While both have their uses, for the job of protecting power equipment from the elements, you need the tarp to be waterproof. The true test of a waterproof tarp is that it does not absorb any moisture when it is soaked in water. This is the type of tarpaulin that is ideal to counter heavy rain, hail, snow, and sleet that can very easily damage sensitive electrical equipment. Because of their waterproof properties, PVC tarpaulins are also anti-rot and mildew-resistant.
Thickness and Mesh Count
When the environmental conditions are particularly challenging, you should ensure that the 12×12 tarp you buy is as thick as possible. The advantage is that for the same thickness when compared to other tarp materials, PVC is lighter and more flexible, which means that their operational life is also extended and they are more value for money. To protect your power equipment from high winds, it is better to choose a PVC tarp with a high mesh count, which is the number of threads or filaments per square inch. The higher the mesh count, the denser the material, and the more difficult it is for wind or water to pass through it. Higher mesh count also translates to better resistance to tearing.
Conclusion
PVC tarpaulins are extremely versatile because apart from their intrinsic properties of high strength, durability, and waterproofing, it is also possible to make them fire-resistant or give more insulation with an extra layer of padding on the inside. All in all, for application in very challenging conditions, when you need very high performance, a PVC tarp is perhaps your best bet in the field.