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How does a bullet resistant panel actually stop a bullet?
The technology behind bullet resistant panels is fascinating. Unlike metal, bullet resistant panels not only stop bullets from penetrating an area, they actually absorb the bullet to prevent ricochet. This feature can mean the difference between life and death when you are trying to protect your friends, families, and patrons.
At Covenant Security Equipment, our bullet resistant panels are made of multiple layers of woven roving ballistic grade fiberglass cloth mechanically injected with a thermoset polyester resin and placed in a hydraulic hot press, where it is formed into flat, rigid sheets. This production technique, and materials used, provide the controlled internal de-lamination to permit the capture of penetrating projectile.
The initial impact of a bullet upon the hard surface of the panel causes the bullet to distort and flatten. Then, as the bullet penetrates the layers of fiberglass cloth within, the laminate pulls apart in a controlled manner so that the energy of the bullet dissipates. More energy is absorbed as the bullet penetrates the high-strength glass fibers.
Each level of bullet resistance contains a varying number of layers. The amount of layers and the weight of each level determines what kind of bullet it will stop.
The following is a chart showing the weight and thickness of each level:
You might notice that the level numbers are not in order from least to greatest in protection as you would logically assume, but notice that the weight and thickness are in proper order.
Our bullet resistant panels can be used in walls, furniture, vehicles and as blast protection barriers. If you would like help deciding what level is best for your project, please contact us at sales@covenantsecurityequipment.com and we would be happy to help.