All About Ballistic Fabric

In contemporary times, Polyethylene (PE) materials and aramid materials are the most prevalently used in a wide array of bulletproof equipment. Their outstanding properties and remarkable bulletproof capabilities have enabled them to dominate the bulletproof equipment market, winning the favor of customers.

Nevertheless, due to the distinct characteristics of these two materials, the bulletproof products made from them exhibit differences in performance. To assist customers in making suitable choices, the following is an introduction to the advantages and disadvantages of these two fabrics:

1. PE Fabric

Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW-PE) is a high-performance organic fiber developed in the early 1980s. Alongside carbon fiber and aramid, it is recognized as one of the three major high-tech fibers in the world today. It boasts e

xtremely high stability and is highly resistant to degradation. Although this property causes severe environmental pollution, it also makes UHMW-PE an ideal material for manufacturing body armor. Additionally, it features low-temperature resistance, UV resistance, and water resistance.

In terms of bulletproof performance: When it comes to defending against low-velocity bullets, the anti-ballistic performance of UHMW-PE fiber is approximately 30% higher than that of aramid. Against high-velocity bullets, its bulletproof ability is 1.5 to 2 times that of aramid.

However, UHMW-PE has notable drawbacks: Its high-temperature resistance is far inferior to that of aramid. The operating temperature of PE bulletproof products should be maintained within 80°C (which can meet the temperature requirements of the human body and equipment, which is 55°C for temperature resistance). Once the temperature exceeds this threshold, its performance will decline rapidly. In contrast, aramid bulletproof products can maintain a stable structure and good protective performance even at a high temperature of 200°C. Consequently, PE bulletproof products are not suitable for use in high-temperature environments.

Furthermore, the creep resistance of PE is not as good as that of aramid. Equipment made of PE will gradually deform under continuous pressure. Thus, equipment with complex shapes, such as helmets that need to endure long-term pressure, cannot be fabricated from PE.

2. Aramid Fabric

Aramid, also known as Kevlar, emerged in the late 1960s. It is a new type of high-tech synthetic fiber. Aramid has advantages such as high-temperature resistance, acid and alkali resistance, lightweight, and high strength, and has been extensively applied in bulletproof protective equipment, construction, and electronic equipment.

Nevertheless, aramid has two critical shortcomings:

Therefore, aramid bulletproof inserts and bulletproof vests are not suitable for long-term use in environments with strong ultraviolet rays and high humidity, as this will significantly reduce their protective performance and service life. Moreover, the poor stability and short lifespan of aramid also limit its further application in the bulletproof field.

Regarding price, high-quality aramid is 30% to 50% more expensive than PE. Currently, the use of aramid in bulletproof products is gradually decreasing and is being replaced by PE bulletproof products. Unless in special environments or with specific requirements, such as the Middle East, which has high temperatures throughout the year, it is still recommended to use bulletproof equipment made of PE materials.

3. How to Distinguish between the Two Bulletproof Fabrics?

The most straightforward methods are as follows: Check the color: PE is white, while aramid is yellow. Feel the texture: PE is more flexible than aramid.

The above is an introduction to these two bulletproof fabrics. It is believed that customers now have a certain understanding of them. You can evaluate their advantages and disadvantages based on your own needs and select products that suit you.