Effectiveness of Three Portable Cooling Systems in Reducing Heat Stress
Abstract
The Navy Clothing & Textile Research Facility (NCTRF) conducted a laboratory evaluation to examine a battery-operated, circulating liquid cooling vest and two 'passive', frozen gel pack vests for their effectiveness in reducing heat strain. The battery-operated system was the Model 1905 Cool Vest, manufactured by ILC Dover, Inc. (ILC). The passive systems were the SteeleVest, manufactured by Steele, Inc. (STEELE), and the Stay Cool Vest, manufactured by American Vest Co. (AMERICAN). Eight test subjects attempted four heat exposures, one without cooling (CONTROL) and one with each of the three cooling systems. The ILC and the STEELE, were similarly effective in reducing heat strain. The AMERICAN, reduced rectal temperature compared with the CONTROL, but not skin temperature, heart rate or sweat rate. The AMERICAN was not nearly as effective as the other two systems, possibly because of its a) lower surface area available for cooling and b) poor contact between the torso and the gel packs. Each of the cooling systems has logistical concerns. The ILC requires battery storage and recharging. The STEELE, however, requires more freezer space than the ILC for its coolant. If the added freezer space is not a limiting factor, the STEELE system, because of its simplicity, ease of use and low profile, is recommended for shipboard use. Keywords: Microclimate cooling systems, Thermoregulation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA206959
Entities
People
- Barbara A. Avellini
- Nancy A. Pimental