They are used under and around welding work to keep spatter off floors, machinery, finished surfaces and anything that would burn.
Material determines the temperature rating and the application. Fibreglass blankets resist high temperature and are the standard for welding spatter. Silica blankets resist higher temperature again and are used for heavy spatter and molten metal. Vermiculite-coated blankets resist molten metal splash. Carbon felt and aramid fibre blankets are lighter and more flexible but have lower temperature limits.
Thickness and weight affect durability and heat resistance. Heavier blankets resist spatter longer and stay in place better; lighter blankets are easier to move and drape. The weight in ounces per square yard is the usual specification.
Pads and heat shields are the smaller versions used for specific protection — protecting a hose from spatter, shielding a cylinder from radiant heat, or covering a small area. Fire-retardant treated canvas is used where the hazard is sparks rather than sustained heat.
