In light of the increasing demand for lightweight and comfortable bullet-resistant vests, Teijin Aramid introduced two SK1 approved Twaron-based solutions that weigh less and offer more comfort. The new lightweight Twaron CT511 – made from one of the thinnest aramid yarns in the world – and a new lightweight hybrid solution that reduces back face deformation was presented at the General Police Equipment Exhibition & Conference (GPEC) in Leipzig, Germany.
The need for more comfort and flexibility has become increasingly important for police forces and special SWAT teams, in order to improve their performance. In the case of bullet-resistant vests, it is paramount that they ensure the best protection by absorbing the impact of bullets and other types of firearms. However, the weight and the fit of the vest should not hinder the performance of its wearer. The new Twaron solutions were tested in Mellrichstadt, Germany, and have been approved under the German Technische Richtlinie for threat level SK1.
The first, very low weight, 100 percent Twaron solution is 4.18 kg/m² and consists of Twaron 420 dtex yarn, which is one of the thinnest aramid fibers available in the market. The Twaron CT511 fabric is also made from this yarn. As a result, it is an extremely light, thin and flexible bullet-resistant vest. The second introduction is a hybrid solution, which is also lightweight and very flexible; it weighs just 4.68 kg/m² and is made from Twaron CT612 (550 dtex yarn) and the new Twaron LFT SB1 plus. This hybrid solution contains an integrated anti-trauma system that reduces back face deformation (BFD) by 30 percent. Furthermore it is very flexible, making the vest extremely comfortable to wear.
The introduction of these two new solutions in the European market took place at the GPEC, Europe's leading specialized trade fair exclusively for authority members, September 2012 in Leipzig, Germany.
