WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. company Alcoa Defense has launched an innovation in armor alloys that provide optimal protection and survivability.
The new armor alloy -- ArmX -- builds on Alcoa's more than 120 years of alloy expertise to create a product that combines reduced weight with toughness and strength for armor applications.
Alcoa said it developed ArmX armor alloy through proprietary casting technologies applied to unique metal chemistry that ensure uniform properties throughout the material, even in thick sections. ArmX armor uses range from bolt-on applique solutions to vehicle hatches. Additional applications are in development.
"Our customers can now immediately access a full offering of ArmX in large plate and forged specifications enabling efficient designs that will help keep soldiers out of harm's way," said Alcoa Defense President David Dobson.
ArmX will be produced at Alcoa's facilities in Davenport, Iowa, and Cleveland.
"Forged solutions with ArmX add a degree of freedom in design that is crucial to success and cost efficiency," said Fred Latrash, director of Marketing and Sales for Alcoa's Forgings business.
"With forged solutions using ArmX, we are able to create monolithic shapes for doors, hulls and blast shields moving vulnerable seams away from attack."
Alcoa made the announcement at the AUSA meeting and exhibition in Washington.
