When it comes to ballistic protection, not all armor plates are created equal. One of the most critical distinctions in body armor is between stand alone and in conjunction plates. At AraTech Research, we exclusively manufacture stand alone plates, including our NIJ Level IV-certified plates, because we believe in providing maximum protection without compromise. But what exactly sets these two types of plates apart, and why have we chosen this path?
Defining Stand Alone and In Conjunction Plates
1.Stand Alone Plates:
Stand alone plates are designed to provide complete ballistic protection on their own, without requiring any additional layers of soft armor. These plates are constructed to stop high-velocity rifle rounds, shrapnel, and other threats independently. Whether NIJ-certified or not, stand alone plates undergo rigorous testing to ensure they offer the highest level of protection without the need for supplemental armor.
2.In Conjunction Plates:
In conjunction plates, on the other hand, are designed to work with a specific type of soft armor vest. These plates alone do not provide full protection; they rely on the soft armor layer underneath to meet ballistic standards. The plate absorbs part of the impact, while the underlying soft armor dissipates the remaining energy. Without the correct soft armor, an in conjunction plate may not provide adequate protection, even against the threats it claims to stop.
The History of In Conjunction Plates
In conjunction plates have a long history in military and law enforcement use, particularly during the early adoption of modern body armor systems. Early hard armor plates were heavy and unwieldy, so they were often paired with soft armor to balance protection with mobility. The idea was to create a multi-layered defense system where soft armor could handle lower-velocity threats, while the hard plate would protect against rifle rounds.
However, this design came with significant drawbacks. The biggest issue was compatibility—each in conjunction plate had to be used with the specific soft armor it was tested and certified with. Using a different type or brand of soft armor could render the plate ineffective, potentially putting the wearer at serious risk. Additionally, these systems were often bulkier and less comfortable, making them less practical for long-term wear.
Disadvantages of In Conjunction Plates
1.Dependence on Soft Armor:
The primary drawback of in conjunction plates is their reliance on soft armor to function as intended. If the soft armor isn’t worn or if it doesn’t match the plate’s specifications, the protection level is compromised. This introduces a significant risk in real-world scenarios where the correct pairing may not always be available.
2.Bulk and Weight:
Because in conjunction systems require both hard and soft armor to work together, they tend to be bulkier and heavier than stand alone plates. This can reduce mobility and increase fatigue for the wearer, especially during extended operations.
3.Complex Certification:
In conjunction plates are certified only when used with a specific soft armor vest. This complicates the certification process and limits flexibility for end users who may want to switch or upgrade their gear. Stand alone plates, in contrast, offer a simpler, more universal solution.
4.Potential for Misuse:
In the field, there’s always the risk that an in conjunction plate could be used without the required soft armor, either due to a lack of understanding or availability. This can lead to catastrophic failures in protection, which is why stand alone plates are often preferred in high-stakes environments.
Why AraTech Chooses Stand Alone Plates
At AraTech Research, we believe in providing uncompromising protection that can be relied upon in any situation. Stand alone plates offer several key advantages that align with our commitment to quality and safety:
•Maximum Protection: Our stand alone plates are designed to stop high-velocity threats independently, ensuring reliable protection without additional components.
•Versatility: Users can wear our plates with or without soft armor, providing flexibility in how they are deployed across various missions.
•Simplicity: Stand alone plates eliminate the complexity of ensuring proper compatibility between different armor layers, reducing the risk of improper use.
•Comfort and Mobility: By eliminating the need for extra layers, stand alone plates reduce bulk, allowing for greater comfort and freedom of movement.
Conclusion
While in conjunction plates have played a significant role in the evolution of body armor, they come with inherent limitations that can compromise user safety and performance. At AraTech Research, we focus on stand alone plates because they offer superior protection, simplicity, and versatility. Whether you’re law enforcement, military, or a civilian seeking top-tier ballistic protection, our stand alone plates are built to perform independently, ensuring you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.
If you’re looking for reliable, Canadian-made armor plates that meet the highest standards of protection, explore AraTech’s range of NIJ-certified and custom ballistic solutions. We stand behind every product we make—because your safety is our mission.
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