Mission-critical applications require reliable and state-of-the-art technology to operate effectively in even the harshest conditions. This technology spans every area of operations, from military personnel’s clothing and gear to the components used in vehicles, aircraft and electronic equipment.
Materials like expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) are vital in this industry. They have many characteristics that enhance military gear. At TTG, we partner with the military to produce tailored solutions. Our American-made, regulatory-compliant materials help keep soldiers safe and run their equipment.
The Strategic Role of ePTFE in Defense
The modern military environment continuously adapts to new threats with advanced technologies. Equipment and gear must resist harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, abrasion and chemicals for reliable performance. They must also be lightweight. Some military applications require effective dust and contaminant filtering to prevent damage, and gear must comply with strict regulatory standards like Berry compliance and MIL-SPEC.
ePTFE plays a strategic role in overcoming many of the challenges faced in this environment. It has exceptional chemical resistance and performs well in temperatures ranging from arctic cold to desert heat. It is microporous, making it breathable, while keeping harmful particles out. Its hydrophobic and oleophobic properties enable it to keep out water and oil. Despite its durability, the material maintains a lightweight and flexible design. It is customizable to the needs of your operation.
Our Engineered ePTFE Products for Military Demands
TTG manufactures specialized military ePTFE membranes, laminates and other components. Our quality assurance and compliance with military standards ensure a reliable addition to your operation. Here are some of our products and capabilities:
- Thermal lamination: We can bond layers of materials together to improve their properties and qualities. This capability enables applications like multi-layer fabrics that offer durability and comfort in military applications.
- Oleophobic treatment: Dust, oil and other substances will slide off materials more easily with this coating. Adding it to products makes cleaning easier and enhances longevity, even in harsh environments.
- ePTFE manufacturing: We have a cutting-edge facility where we manufacture products using custom-designed equipment. These technologies improve thermal bonding while reducing fouling.
- Custom ePTFE: Get mission-specific membranes and components to meet your unique military requirements for everything from gear to vehicles and equipment.
Practical Military Uses for ePTFE Technology
Films and coatings use ePFTE because it can help protect against moisture and chemicals. The material’s low-friction properties are useful for moving parts, bearings and seals. Electronics and mechanical tools employ this material in military vehicles for insulation or venting. It works well in applications like cables, connectors and enclosures.
Besides equipment, protective gear and uniforms harness this technology to help protect soldiers in their various duties, offering enhanced chemical, biological and nuclear defense. ePTFE membranes for CBRN fabric can make it more resistant to chemicals and flames. Aviation and air crew suits, flight deck uniforms and combat vehicle uniforms may use this technology.
The microporous structure of ePTFE also makes it suitable for high-efficiency filtration. Aircraft and military vehicles may adopt it to keep dust and other contaminants from harming critical functions.
The TTG Advantage for Defense Solutions
We’re a reliable partner to the defense industry. Here are a few ways we stand out:
- U.S. manufacturing: Our Missouri facility enables us to create ePTFE membranes for Berry-compliant face masks and other products. We manufacture in the United States using only domestically made materials.
- Collaborative approach: We get to know our customers and their desired end use to make products that offer the superior performance you need for particular environments and applications.
- Reliability: We perform all our manufacturing in-house, which makes us a reliable choice. This setup also enables us to create rapid prototypes and finished solutions.
Partner With Us for Military Materials
We can help with all your specialized ePTFE applications, from ePTFE membranes for flame-resistant clothing to laminates and filters used in military equipment and technology. Reach out to our team to discuss your needs and get a quote for your desired solution.