Frequently Asked Questions
- How does ArmorCore® actually stop a bullet?
ArmorCore® panels are designed to allow entry of the bullet (non-ricochet), and then defeat the energy of the bullet through a controlled process of ply-delamination. The correct ratio of fiberglass to resin, and the right amount of heat and pressure during the curing process, ensure that each layer of woven roving fiberglass will delaminate from one another and allow for a controlled, non-spalling encapsulation of the bullet within the panel. The kinetic energy of the bullet is released or dissipated through this ply-release or delamination process. -
What does it mean that your product is "UL Listed"?
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., the world's oldest and largest, not for profit, independent testing company, wrote the standard for bullet resisting materials. This standard, UL752, has been widely accepted throughout the world as the standard for architectural bullet resistive building materials. ArmorCore has been tested according to that standard by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. A ballistic resistive product becomes "UL Listed" after being subjected to a variety of ballistic tests which include shooting the materials while frozen at -25 degrees Fahrenheit and while heated to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. After the initial testing series, the product is then set up for maintenance testing that involves "pulling random samples" without notice from the manufacturer's routine production on a quarterly rotation. This rigorous testing schedule ensures that the product is being made without variation and has the highest level of ballistic resistive integrity available. - What are some common design applications for ArmorCore® Panels?
ArmorCore® panels can be used anywhere there is a perceived or real threat of ballistic assault. Bullet resistant panels or sheathing are specified in many design situations: Judge's Benches
Courtroom protection for the Jury area and the Witness Box
Woodwork of Tellers cages or counters in banks
walls within:- government buildings
- police stations
- District Attorney's offices
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How about pricing? How can I get a price quote?
First, be sure you know which UL Level of ballistic protection you are needing. Here in the U.S. market you will be needing a UL Level 1 through 8. It is also helpful if you know the actual net sizes or cut sizes that you will be needing. This will help us to optimize your order in our effort to save drop-off and waste. Use our Request for Quote form to send us a request for quote. We will then fax or email you an official quotation with our current and competitive pricing. - How easy is it to work with these panels?
Compared to older more traditional bullet resistant building materials such as plate steel, concrete or cinder blocks with sand, ArmorCore® offers a lot more utility and ease. The panels are fairly lightweight,3.6 lbs per square foot @ UL Level 2, and can be easily cut, drilled, sanded, painted, textured. ArmorCore® panels are more compatible with other wood or gypsum materials. Regular jobber drill bits can be used for drilling, masonry or diamond grit-edge blades for sawing, and ArmorCore® can be secured to wood or steel studs using a #6 or #8 self-drilling drywall screw or decking screw. ArmorCore® can be primed and painted with oil or water based paints, can be glued to other surfaces with Liquid Nails adhesives, and can be covered with drywall, wood panels, or literally any type of wall covering. Instructions for Installation are included with every order to assist skilled or novice installers. -
How does a customer get a price quote?
Go to our section: Get a quote