DSM Dyneema, the manufacturer of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) fiber, (branded as Dyneema) launched today at Milipol 2013 the ‘Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology’ – the company’s newest product development program. This new technology combines breakthroughs in polymer science, next-generation fiber technology and unique uni-directional engineering to deliver up to 25 percent higher ballistic protection while reducing weight by up to 20 percent. The new products based on Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology can be used to design personal protection (vests, inserts, helmets, soft armor applications and extremity protection) and vehicle armor. All Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology products are manufactured at the DSM Dyneema facility in Greenville, N.C.
“We have eliminated the traditional compromise between higher protection and lower weight, enabling armor manufacturers to meet tomorrow’s threats and design challenges,” said Shitij Chabba, Global Segment Director, Life Protection, DSM Dyneema.
Three companies joined the Dutch company demonstrating applications of the new technology – Rheinmetall Ballistic Protection GmbH, Point Blank Enterprises and TenCate Advanced Armour. These initial applications demonstrate the advantages of the new material, in reducing weight, improving flexibility and reducing thickness of protective used for both soft and hard ballistic protection.
DSM Dyneema views adoption of next-generation material technologies as critical in addressing major law enforcement and military trends that are intensifying the need to reduce the weight of protective gear. Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology delivers benefits of significantly lighter weight – enhanced comfort and flexibility for people and greater range, agility and capacity for vehicles – while providing extreme ballistic performance.
DuPont Protection Technologies, the maker of the famous Kevlar fiber, has introduced two new Kevlar products at Milipol 2013 – a new generation multi-threat solution designed for greater comfort to the ballistic vest wearer, the AS450X is designed to provide anti-stab, anti-spike, and combined ballistic protection in armor applications. It is designed to offer improved mobility and driving comfort, particularly when donned in patrol vehicles. The lightweight laminate film structure helps enhance flexibility and can cover a greater surface area.
“We focused on the variety of risks law enforce,net officers face at all times, and with these products we are addressing those threats” said Jeroen B. Jacobs, Global Marketing Director at DuPont. According to Jacobs; Handgun threats pose only 15 percent of the threat to law enforcement agents, after knife stabbing (35 percent) and blunt trauma (50 percent).
Difficult climate conditions also add to the challenges, noted Jacobs. DuPont has also introduced the XPS104 fabric, offering enhanced bullet stopping power and reduced back face deformation even in hot climates. Based on market research revealing that a water repellent ballistic solution is required, the new product improves the ballistic performance and comfort even in wet conditions. Jacobs added.
