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[July 2003]
Iraq War Performance Of Morgan Advanced Ceramics Armour Points To Further Demand For Low-Weight Shielding
Personnel and vehicle armour manufactured from alumina by Morgan Advanced Ceramics in the UK is up to 50% lighter than steel counterparts delivering similar protection. The lightness of the alumina contributes to the speed with which troops and equipment can be deployed in combat. In addition, the company has the ability to pressure mould and precision-cut this tough material into complex shapes, leading to heightened interest from both anti-terrorism quarters and the military.
Weight and shape are critical issues for personal as well as vehicle armour. For the individual, freedom of movement is paramount, so the ceramic body armour needs to be light and comfortable to wear. Morgan supplies the US, Europe and Asia with ceramic body armour in the form of ‘mosaics’ or one-piece breast and back plates. Incorporated into a protective jacket or vest, the ceramic can withstand armour-piercing rounds up to NIJ Level III and IV.
For vehicle protection, Morgan offers jigsaw configurations that are precision-cut using novel CNC techniques. The process is fully automated so individual vehicle designs can be sent direct to the cutting machine, producing vehicle armour that fits around window shapes, weaponry and even door handles, etc. This degree of contour accuracy ensures that the ceramic protection is positioned precisely where it is needed. Extraneous material is eliminated and therefore the weight of the already low mass armouring is kept to a minimum. This, together with the ability to deliver “appliqué” armour for installation at point of need, significantly reduces vehicle airlift weight and assists rapid deployment.
Morgan offers a range of lightweight armour profiles based on high alumina and toughened alumina ceramics. It can manufacture up to 600mm long and 75mm thick as well as pressed and machined complex shapes to customer specifications.
ENDS