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About HKO
Which industries are HKO products suitable for?

We serve the automotive, marine, filtration, power generation, industrial equipment, and many other industries where high-temperature and fire protection solutions are required. Overview

What makes HKO an expert in heat protection and thermal insulation?

HKO has specialized in technical textiles for high‑temperature applications since 1974. With our own laboratory and research activities, we develop customized solutions for passive fire protection, thermal insulation, and filtration. Our motto: Trust the Experts. Learn more about HKO

Where does HKO manufacture?

Our main sites are located in Oberhausen and Thuringia. We also operate international sales locations. Our main production sites for needle mats and stitch‑bonded mats are our facilities in Beuren and Leinefelde, Thuringia. At our Oberhausen site, we manufacture glass fiber fabrics and refine mats and fabrics through coating, laminating, and chemical finishing. Learn more about our production facilities

Is it possible to develop customized products together with HKO?

Yes, it is. HKO offers co‑development sessions in our own laboratory or at the customer’s site to develop tailored products for specific requirements—from material selection to finishing. For innovative solutions, we always keep an eye on market needs and maintain open dialogue with our customers. Learn more about co-development

Is a collaboration between HKO and other textile manufacturers/partners for joint product development possible?

Yes, this is possible. HKO is open to entering partnerships with other companies for joint product development when synergy effects arise for all partners involved and high‑quality, customer‑oriented products can be created.

What are the advantages of working with HKO?

In addition to high‑quality products specifically suited to your application, you benefit from our development and consulting expertise as well as a global network within the Saint‑Gobain Group. Learn more

Customer Service
Where does HKO ship to?

Our technical textiles produced in Germany can be exported to all countries worldwide.

How can I contact HKO?

Via our contact form on the website or by phone. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

Are there minimum order quantities?

Yes, certain products require minimum quantities. We are happy to discuss the details personally. Contact us

Can I order samples?

Yes, we provide samples so you can evaluate the quality and characteristics of our materials.

Products and Technologies
What chemical resistance do the materials offer?

Our materials are resistant to oils, solvents, and many chemicals, making them ideal for harsh industrial environments such as chemical production or mechanical engineering.

Which products does HKO offer?

Our portfolio includes fabrics, needle mats, stitch‑bonded mats, knitted fabrics, as well as special refinements of these products designed for different temperature and safety requirements. Learn more about HKO products

How is quality for HKO products ensured?

Our products undergo stringent internal lab tests and external certifications to international standards such as ISO 9001. This guarantees consistently high quality and safety for all applications. See our certifications

 

Are there differences between woven and knitted fabrics?

Yes. Woven fabrics are stable and offer high mechanical strength, whereas knitted fabrics are elastic and adapt well to complex shapes. Both variants are optimized for different uses—for example, woven fabrics for protective covers and knits for PPE or flexible passive fire protection in aircraft seating. See our woven and knitted fabrics

Which products are suitable for expansion joints (compensators)?

Needle mats and stitch‑bonded mats made from glass fibers are ideal for compensators due to their high flexibility and temperature resistance. They absorb movements and vibrations without losing their insulation properties.

How are HKO needle mats and fabrics finished?

We refine fabrics by coatings, laminations, and chemical treatments. These processes improve temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and mechanical stability, resulting in tailor‑made solutions for demanding applications. Learn more

 

What are the mechanical properties of glass fiber fabrics and needle mats?

Ther fiber glass materials offer high tear resistance, abrasion resistance, and flexibility. These properties are crucial for applications in moving systems or flexible insulation, where mechanical stresses occur. In addition, insulation with needle mats significantly dampens vibrations and meet specific acoustic requirements.

Are HKO materials environmentally friendly?

All HKO products are asbestos‑free and designed for long service life. We focus on resource‑efficient production processes and offer materials that - under certain conditions - can be reused or used long‑term. Our production process largely avoids waste because glass‑fiber remnants from needle mats are fed back into the process. This reduces the environmental footprint and supports sustainability projects.

What advantages do glass fibers and glass yarns offer?

Glass fibers are non‑combustible, chemically stable, and provide high temperature resistance. They are lightweight, flexible, durable, and withstand mechanical loads.

What temperature ranges do HKO products cover?

Our products are designed for temperature ranges of between 200 °C to 1,600 °C. Glass‑fiber products are suited to medium temperature ranges, while silicate and aramid fibers are used for more extreme conditions. This allows solutions for engines, industrial furnaces, and fire‑protection systems. In addition, finishings can influence temperature resistance or other properties of the products, adjusted to the specific application. Contact us for a personalized consultation

What are glass fiber needle mats and stitch-bonded mats?

Needle mats are consolidated fiber mats that offer excellent thermal insulation, while stitch‑bonded mats gain additional stability and superior tear resistance thanks to stitching with glass yarn - compared with purely needled glass‑fiber mats. 

Both are designed for high‑temperature applications and are easy to process, e.g., for expansion joints (compensators), exhaust ducts, or textile smoke and fire curtains.

Which base materials does HKO use?

HKO relies on high‑performance fibers and yarns such as E‑glass, ECR‑glass, silica, and aramid. From these we produce needle mats, stitch‑bonded mats, and technical fabrics. The materials are non‑combustible, chemically stable, and resistant to extreme temperatures. They are suitable for applications from 200 °C to 1,600 °C, making them ideal for thermal insulation, fire protection, and mechanical loads. You can find our base materials here

How is the quality of our materials ensured?

All products for fire door and smoke curtain production undergo strict internal testing and meet international standards. We guarantee consistent quality through certified production processes and regular inspections.

How is disposal of HKO materials handled?

Disposal follows the instructions in the Safety Data Sheet and applicable environmental regulations. Our products are free of hazardous substances and can, in many cases, be recycled or thermally recovered.

Which materials does HKO use for thermal insulation?

We use glass fibers, silicate fibers, and other high‑performance fibers that withstand extreme temperatures while remaining lightweight and flexible. Learn more about our materials

How do I find the right material for my application?

Factors such as temperature range, mechanical load, and chemical environment play a major role in material selection. Our experts are happy to advise you individually. Contact us 

Are HKO products safe for human health?

Yes, our materials are asbestos‑free and contain no harmful fibers. They are not respirable and therefore safe for industrial use and further processing. Learn more

Which certifications do HKO products have?

Our products are certified according to relevant standards such as DIN EN ISO 9001, ISO 14001, 2014/90 (EU), MED, and IATF, and meet international safety requirements. HKO has also been awarded the EcoVadis Silver Medal for sustainability evaluation. View certifications

How do fabrics and needle mats differ in their applications?

Fabrics are ideal for flexible applications and high mechanical loads, while needle mats provide excellent thermal insulationMore info on needle mats and fabrics

How sustainable are HKO products?

We rely on long‑lasting, asbestos‑free materials and optimized production processes to conserve resources and reduce environmental impact. Get more info on sustainability at HKO

Are HKO products suitable for contact with food?

No. Our materials are designed for industrial applications and are not approved for direct food contact. We recommend use exclusively in technical environments.

Automotive
Which certifications apply to HKO automotive products?

Our products are certified according to ISO 9001 and IATF 16949. They also meet application‑specific fire‑protection classifications to ensure maximum safety.

Does HKO offer solutions for electric vehicles?

Yes, we develop specialized fire‑protection materials for EV battery packs, modules, and cells to minimize thermal risks. See our EV battery protection solutions

Are HKO Automotive materials safe for human health?

Yes, all our products are asbestos‑free and contain no hazardous fibers. They are safe for industrial use and environmentally friendly.

How does HKO support OEMs with individual requirements?

We work closely with OEMs to develop customized solutions. From material selection to series production, we support the entire development process.

What advantages do glass fiber mats provide in the automotive sector?

Glass fiber needle mats are flexible, lightweight, and provide excellent insulation properties. They can be adapted easily to complex shapes and are ideal for engine compartment insulation. View the solutions

How do HKO products contribute to noise reduction in the vehicle?

Our mineral fiber products offer not only thermal protection but also acoustic damping. This improves driving comfort and reduces noise emissions.

Are there solutions for hydrogen technologies?

Yes, we develop specialized insulation materials for pipes and components used in hydrogen systems. These materials are safe, lightweight, and chemically resistant.

What temperatures can HKO insulation materials withstand in the engine compartment?

Our insulation materials are designed for temperatures up to 1,000 °C. They are resistant to vibration and pulsation, which extends their service life in demanding environments.

Which products are suitable for combustion engines?

Heat protection textiles for exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, and mufflers ensure efficient thermal insulation. They reduce heat loss, protect adjacent components, and help comply with emission standards. Depending on the application requirements, this can be achieved with (laminated) needle-punched or knitted mats from HKO's HAKOTHERM® brand, customized 2D stamped parts made from needle-punched mats and knitted mats, or laminated and assembled fabrics. Learn more about HKO ICE solutions

How do HKO products protect battery packs from thermal runaway?

Our multilayer materials create a barrier that retains heat and flames. They prevent fire from spreading to adjacent modules and minimize the risk of explosions — particularly important for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

Which solutions does HKO offer for electric vehicles?

We offer DEFENSOR‑Flex® multilayer systems for battery fire protection and thermal barriers. These systems prevent the spread of fire, reduce gas release, and are lightweight and flexible. They can be adapted to complex battery geometries and meet the highest safety standards.

What role does filtration play in battery applications?

Battery fires release toxic gases and particles. The DEFENSOR‑Flex® ML‑Z filter medium is used in battery systems to retain these substances safely and guide them out in a controlled manner. In addition to its filtration functionality, DEFENSOR‑Flex® ML‑Z also features fire‑ and heat‑resistant properties.

Passive Fire Protection for Construction
Which materials does HKO offer for manufacturing fire curtains?

We supply non‑combustible glass‑fiber fabrics and needle mats with special coatings that serve as core components for fire curtains. These materials are temperature‑resistant, easy to process, and meet international safety standards. They consist of THERMO‑E glass fabric reinforced with V4A and are coated with silicone or special fire‑protection coatings (F120). Needle mats are also used as infill for additional fire resistance. An intumescent solution (expandable graphite coating) for enhanced heat resistance is also part of our portfolio. Learn more about fire curtain materials

How can manufacturers integrate our materials into textile fire curtain/smoke curtain constructions?

HKO fabrics and mats can be easily fabricated and sewn. We supply roll goods tailored to our customers’ production processes.

Are the materials suitable for large smoke protection systems?

Yes. Our fabrics are lightweight and stable — ideal for manufacturing large‑format smoke curtains used in shopping centers, airports, or industrial facilities. They can be rolled up compactly and installed easily.

What temperature resistance do our materials for smoke curtains/fire doors offer?

Our fabrics and needle mats are designed for temperatures up to 1,000 °C. Special coatings further increase resistance to direct flame exposure.

How does HKO support smoke curtain/fire door manufacturers in product development?

We assist with material selection, provide technical data sheets, and support with samples for testing. This enables manufacturers to certify their products efficiently and bring them to market more quickly.

Which standards must manufacturers observe when using our materials?

Our products are suitable for applications in accordance with

  • EN 16034 (fire‑resistant closures) and
  • EN 1634 (testing of fire and smoke protection).

    We advise manufacturers on selecting materials that comply with these standards.

Which materials are suitable for smoke curtains?

For smoke curtains, we offer glass‑fiber fabrics with double‑sided PU coating that withstand temperatures up to 600 °C. They are lightweight, robust, and meet the requirements of DIN EN 12101‑1.

Which coatings are available for fire curtain and smoke curtain components?

We offer silicone, PU, and vermiculite coatings as well as intumescent fabrics for additional protection. These coatings improve temperature resistance and enhance mechanical stability. Learn more about HKO coatings

Why is PYROFAB® Sol relevant for insurance companies?

PV systems pose fire risks through defective wiring, hotspots, or electrical arcs. PYROFAB® Sol reduces fire and damage risks and helps meet safety requirements - which can positively influence insurance premiums. Companies with large roof surfaces and PV systems can significantly reduce damage potential with PYROFAB® Sol.

What is passive fire protection, and why is it important?

Passive fire protection prevents the spread of fire by using non‑combustible materials. Our products reliably protect equipment, vehicles, and buildings from fire risks. Learn more about HKO Passive Fire Protection solutions

What is PYROFAB® Sol?

PYROFAB® Sol is a fire‑resistant fabric used as a patented barrier between PV modules and the roofing material. It prevents the spread of fire in case of a PV system malfunction. With a surface weight of 560 g/m², it is very lightweight, UV‑resistant, and weatherproof, ensuring long service life.

How does PYROFAB® Sol work?

The material is non‑combustible and acts as a passive fire‑protection layer by preventing direct flame contact with the roof surface. It is easy to install and requires no structural modifications, making it ideal for both new buildings and retrofits.

Which roofs are particularly fire sensitive?

PVC, PIR, bitumen, TPO/FPO, and EPS‑insulated roofs are considered especially fire‑critical. PYROFAB® Sol significantly reduces the risk by acting as a fire‑blocking layer between the PV system and the roofing structure.

Who distributes PYROFAB® Sol?

Our partners in sales to end customers are solar installers, roofers, and (building material) dealers. Solar installers and roofers can install the material at the customer's site at the same time as the system, thereby significantly increasing fire protection for the end customer. Retrofitting PYROFAB® Sol to existing PV systems on flat roofs can also be done by the solar installer or the end customer themselves. We developed the patented application with our sales partner Sonnen Stark GmbH.

How is PYROFAB® Sol installed?

Installation is carried out by a solar installer or roofer during initial installation or retrofit. The thin coated fabric is applied onto the existing roof without altering the structure.

Can PYROFAB® Sol be reused after roof renovation?

The system is designed for sustainability. In the event of a roof renovation, PYROFAB® Sol can be easily removed from the roof. Provided that the material is not damaged during dismantling and shows no signs of age-related wear and tear, there is nothing to prevent it from being reused on the new roof structure. This saves costs and conserves resources.

What advantages do textile materials offer compared to steel for curtain fillings?

Textile materials are lighter, more flexible, and allow for slim construction designs. They reduce the overall weight of the curtains, simplify installation, and simultaneously deliver high fire‑protection performance.

Where is PYROFAB® Sol manufactured?

In Germany, at our Oberhausen site. This ensures high, consistent quality. PYROFAB® Sol is protected by a European patent.

What are the delivery units of PYROFAB® Sol?

We supply standard rolls of 1.5 m width and 50 m length—ideal for large flat roofs such as industrial or public buildings and warehouses.

Which certifications does PYROFAB® Sol have?

The coated PYROFAB® Sol White fabric is certified according to DIN EN 13501‑1 A2, fulfilling all relevant fire‑protection standards.

What are the material's advantages of PYROFAB® Sol?

It is lightweight, robust, weatherproof, UV‑resistant, and fulfills the highest fire‑safety requirements—significantly increasing building safety.

Can PYROFAB® Sol be retrofitted?

Yes, PYROFAB® Sol is designed specifically for retrofit applications without requiring structural modifications. If a PV system is already installed, we generally recommend temporary removal to ensure proper installation. Exceptions may apply depending on the roof structure. We assess this individually for each project.

Marine
Are there HKO products for shipbuilding?

Our marine solutions include welding protection fabrics, insulation materials, and fire protection systems that meet strict safety standards for shipyards. See HKO Marine solutions

Why is passive fire protection so important in the marine sector?

Passive fire protection prevents the spread of fire by using non‑combustible materials. This protects human lives, critical areas such as engine rooms and reduces the risk of fire, explosions and costly repairs on bord and at the shipyard. View our passive fire protection solutions for the Marine sector

What temperature resistance do HKO welding protection fabrics offer?

Our welding protection fabrics withstand temperatures of up to 1,000 °C. They are robust, durable, and available in lightweight versions for easy handling.

Are the products REACH compliant and MED certified?

Yes, all HKO marine products comply with international safety standards, are REACH‑compliant, and MED‑certified.

How does HKO fabrics protect during welding work in shipbuilding?

With heat‑resistant fabrics that protect sensitive components from sparks and welding spatter. This reduces the risk of damage and increases work safety.

What insulation solutions exist for exhaust pipes in ships?

For this area, we offer equipped glass fabrics with a high-temperature finish or laminated with aluminum foil, as well as glass and silicate needle mats with aluminum lamination or as a classic sandwich solution.

How does HKO contribute to sustainability in the marine sector?

Our materials are durable and reduce the need for multilayer solutions. This conserves resources and reduces transport emissions.

Are there special solutions for batteries in ships?

Yes, DEFENSOR‑Flex® multilayer systems provide effective fire protection for marine battery applications.

What advantages do glass fiber fabrics offer in the marine sector?

Glass fiber fabrics are non-flammable and offer high protection while being lightweight. They are ideal for use on ships, offshore platforms, and in shipyards.

Which HKO products are suitable for use on ships?

HKO offers welding protection fabrics, thermal insulation materials, and fire‑protection products certified according to SOLAS and MED. They are lightweight, robust, and specifically designed for engine rooms, HVAC and decks. Learn more about our naval solutions

Personal Protective Equipment
How is product safety of PPE guaranteed?

The protective performance of our Personal Protective Equipment is ensured through testing and certification by accredited bodies as well as internal quality controls.

Are PPE products washable?

Yes, but depending on the type of protective equipment. Specific care instructions are provided for each product design.

How long do Personal Protective Equipment products last?

Our products are durable thanks to robust materials and high‑quality workmanship. The protective properties of our products also benefit their own longevity. 

Is customized PPE available?

Yes, we offer customized solutions for specific applications. Please feel free to contact us.

What types of protection does HKO cover for Personal Protective Equipment?

Our products provide heat protection, mechanical protection, welding protection, and chemical protection - tailored to the specific use case and requirement. You can find an overview of our PPE veriations and applications here.

Are the PPE products comfortable to wear?

Yes, they are. The soft, flexible materials offer high wearing comfort. Ergonomic designs make extended use easier.

Which materials are used for HKO Personal Protective Equipment?

Soft technical textiles such as aramid fibers (in HAKAMID® and HAKANIT®) provide protection (cut and heat protection) and comfort at the same time. Depending on the application, our PPE can also be made of THERMO E-Glas and/or finished with aluminum or treatments to achieve the desired level of protection.

Which standards do the PPE products meet?

Our Personal Protective Equipment products are certified to EN ISO 11612 for heat and flame protection and EN 388 for cut resistance. This ensures maximum safety.

Which industries is HKO Personal Protective Equipment suitable for?

Our PPE serves the following industries: Fire brigades, military, police, foundries, the glass industry, and motorsport - anywhere extreme heat and mechanical loads occur. Here more details on our PPE-Variety

Which Personal Protective Equipment products does HKO offer?

We offer protective jackets, hoods, gloves, and cuffs made from HAKAMID® and HAKANIT®. These materials are heat‑resistant, cut‑resistant, and comfortable to wear. They comply with standards such as EN ISO 11612 and EN 388. See all HKO PPE products

Filtration
Can HKO filtration products be customized?

Yes. We offer tailored solutions in various thicknesses, basis weights, and densities. Delivery forms include rolls, cut‑to‑size sheets, or die‑cut parts, adapted to customer requirements. Let's discuss your requirements

Which solutions for industrial filtration does HKO offer?

HKO provides textile filter media for oil‑mist separators, flue‑gas filtration, and industrial air cleaning. Products such as MATIFIL® needle mats are designed for high temperatures and comply with ISO 16890 standards. They improve air quality, protect machinery, and contribute to occupational safety.

What is the service life of HKO filter materials?

Thanks to high temperature resistance and mechanical stability, our filters are long‑lasting and maintain consistently high separation efficiency. This reduces maintenance effort and operating costs.

Which particle sizes can HKO filter media separate?

Our filter media are designed for PM10, PM2.5, and PM1 particles. They reliably remove coarse dust, fine dust, and ultrafine particles such as diesel soot and nanoparticles.

What is MATIFIL® and how is it used?

MATIFIL® is a glass‑fiber needle mat developed for the filtration of aerosols, fine dust, and oil mist. It is used in oil‑mist separators, turbochargers, and catalytic systems, offering high separation efficiency at minimal pressure drop.

What advantages do HKO filter materials offer compared to conventional solutions?

Our filter media are non‑combustible, temperature‑resistant up to 500 °C, and durable. They feature extended pore volume, large active fiber surface, and no electrostatic charge, which increases both efficiency and safety.

Which industries are HKO filtration products suitable for?

We serve automotive, power generation, mechanical engineering, and the chemical industry. Applications range from oil‑mist separation in engines to flue‑gas filtration in power plants.

How does filtration contribute to occupational safety?

HKO filtration solutions reduce oil mist and fine dust in the air, protecting employee health and supporting compliance with legal limits. Non‑combustible materials also minimize fire risks.

Which standards do HKO filtration products meet?

All products are classified according to ISO 16890 and meet international safety standards—ensuring reliable performance in demanding environments.