Schools

School protection can be a very sensitive subject to many however there has never been a greater need in our country’s history to protect our most vulnerable. Schools in the U.S. along with overeseas institutions are always looking for new and innovative ways to improve their infrastructure due to the increasing number of violent attacks occurring inside our schools today. Throughout this year alone (2022), 40 school shootings in the U.S. resulted in the injury or death of students and teachers. These staggering statistics have led to parents, school boards, inventors, consultants and government taking action to harden our schools.

ArmorCore bullet-resistant fiberglass panels can reinforce walls, doors, desks, entry points or any area vulnerable to attack. They are easily incorporated into retro-fits or new construction with standard industry tools.

With our rigorous ISO 9001:2015 quality assurance program and continuous product testing, Waco Composites ensures the highest level of product quality by continually researching and developing our UL752 certified products.

What are bullet-resistant panels?

ArmorCore bullet resistant panels are made of woven roven fiberglass and thermoset polyester resin, pressed and produced into flat rigid sheets designed to trap the projectile with no ricochet or spalling. Instead of requiring a robust and immovable concrete or masonry wall, bullet-resistant panels can be used to construct walls using standard stud-wall techniques. The bullet-resistant panels are typically mounted onto the studs and covered with drywall for an aesthetically pleasing finish.=

ArmorCore panels can also be cut to any 2-dimensional size, pre-drilled etc. and incorporated into many different areas of the school. Waco Composites works with door manufacturers who incorporate ArmorCore within the door as well as furniture manufacturers who incorporate ArmorCore into desks and many other areas.

Fiberglass and steel are two common types of bullet-resistant panels. Fiberglass composite wall panels weigh about half as much as steel, are much easier to work with and can be cut and drilled on the job site.

Contact us today to learn more about our bullet-resistant panels for schools.

EDUCATION APPLICATION FLYER

Benefits of bullet-resistant panels in schools

Bullet resistant safe rooms for schools have the following advantages:

  • Protection against Active Shooters: One of the primary benefits of bullet-resistant fiberglass panels is they protect against active shooters. In an active shooter situation, having panels in place can provide a barrier between students and the shooter, potentially saving lives.
  • Protection against Severe Weather: Waco Composites partnered with the Engineering Research Center at Texas Tech University, a testing center that partners with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to test many different building materials for their suitability to withstand wind damage from hurricanes and tornados. The tornado test criterion uses this missile traveling at 100-mph which corresponds to a 250-mph wind and is the criterion used in designing for occupant protection. ArmorCore meets the F-5 tornado rating requirements for wall protection.
  • Forced Entry Protection: By providing a barrier between classrooms and potential threats, this helps facilitate safe learning environments. Additionally, the panels can help to deter potential intruders, making it less likely that they will attempt to enter the school.
  • Reduced Costs for School Districts: The panels can save school districts money by deterring potential threats and reducing the need for repairs after severe weather events. Additionally, the panels can help to reduce insurance costs for school districts as they will be less likely to be held responsible for damages caused by intruders or severe weather events.
  • Increased Peace of Mind for Parents and Guardians: Finally, ArmorCore panels also provide parents and guardians with increased peace of mind. Knowing their child’s school has taken steps to improve safety offers parents and guardians the peace of mind they deserve.

Why choose ArmorCore® bullet resistant panels for your schools

ArmorCore® manufactured by Waco Composites is used by architects in designing or remodeling educational facilities, such as universities, colleges, high schools, middle schools, and kindergartens. Our bullet-resistant panels are available in 8 different UL752 certified levels of protection for educational facility applications.

Here are some unique benefits of ArmorCore® panels.

  • UL752 Certified panels in Levels 1-8
  • Easy To Install With Conventional Tools / No certification required
  • Effective Delay Against Forced Entry / F-5 Tornado Rated
  • ASTM E119-98 Fire Rated
  • Low Wicking – preventing build-up of mold
  • Non-Toxic Materials – no Formaldehyde
  • Available in standard sizes ranging from 3’, 4’ & 5’ widths by 8’, 9’ & 10’ lengths
  • Non-Conductive / Will not impede cell signal
  • Custom cutting available to any 2-dimensional size including pre-drilling, beveling etc.
  • Quick turnaround times averaging 7-10 business days

 

 

Safeguard your students with the highest level of security

ArmorCore®  by Waco Composites is here to help create a safe environment for your students and teachers.

If you’re interested in learning more about how these panels can benefit your school, please contact us today for a quote.