FR Polyester Fabrics: The Standard for Contract Interiors & Safety
Our Flame Retardant (FR) Polyester fabrics provide the perfect balance between textile aesthetics and fire safety. Unlike standard polyester which can melt and drip dangerously when ignited, our FR Polyester is engineered to self-extinguish and limit flame spread. Available in both
Inherently Flame Retardant (IFR) and high-quality treated versions, these fabrics are the backbone of fire safety in public buildings, hotels, and healthcare facilities.
They offer the look and feel of premium decorative textilesโsoft, drapeable, and colorfulโwhile strictly adhering to international fire codes for vertical textiles and upholstery.
Key Features
- Durability & Washability: Particularly with our IFR options, the flame-retardant properties are molecularly bonded. They will not wash out or degrade over time, even after repeated industrial laundering.
- Vibrant Aesthetics: Unlike industrial fibers like Carbon or OPAN, FR Polyester accepts dyes perfectly, offering a limitless range of colors, patterns, and textures to match any interior design.
- Cost-Effective Compliance: It offers a more economical solution for large-scale coverage (such as stage curtains or hotel drapery) compared to aramid or specialty fibers, without compromising on safety standards.
- Abrasion Resistance: High tensile strength and resistance to wear make it ideal for high-traffic seating and furniture applications.
International Standards Compliance
Meeting fire codes is non-negotiable for public spaces. Our FR Polyester fabrics are tested to meet the following critical standards selected from our extensive portfolio:
- NFPA 701: The standard for fire tests for flame propagation of textiles and films (USA). Essential for curtains and drapery.
- DIN 4102-B1: Fire behavior of building materials and elements (Germany). A key standard for construction and event textiles.
- BS 5867 Type C: Fabrics for curtains, drapes, and window blinds (UK). Type C indicates performance is retained after washing (typical for IFR).
- EN 13773 Class 1: Classification scheme for curtains and drapes (Europe).
- BS 5852 Crib 5: Methods of test for assessment of the ignitability of upholstered seating.
Applications
| Sector |
Typical Use Cases |
Why FR Polyester? |
| Hospitality & Hotels |
Blackout Curtains, Sheers, Bedding |
Easy care, withstands frequent washing, meets NFPA 701. |
| Healthcare |
Cubicle Curtains, Room Dividers |
Hygienic, durable against industrial laundry, bacteria resistant options. |
| Events & Theaters |
Stage Curtains, Backdrops, Tablecloths |
Meets strict public venue codes (DIN 4102-B1), wrinkle-resistant. |
| Contract Furniture |
Office Chairs, Lobby Seating |
High abrasion resistance and colorfastness. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between FR and IFR Polyester?
A: IFR (Inherently Flame Retardant) means the fire resistance is built into the polymer DNA of the fiber itself. It lasts for the life of the fabric. FR (Flame Retardant) usually refers to fabrics that have been chemically treated. While high-quality treated FR works well, IFR is generally preferred for items that require frequent washing.
Q: Does FR Polyester feel stiff or chemical-like?
A: Not at all. Modern FR Polyester mimics the soft hand, drape, and texture of natural fibers or standard synthetics. You likely cannot tell the difference by touch alone.
Q: Can I wash these fabrics?
A: Yes. One of the biggest advantages of polyester is its ease of care. However, always check the specific care label. IFR fabrics retain their safety rating after washing, whereas some treated fabrics may require dry cleaning or re-treatment over time.