In the world of high-performance textiles, two terms that are often heard are “aramid cloth” and “Kevlar”. While the two are often used interchangeably, they are not actually the same thing. In this article, we will explore the differences between aramid cloth and Kevlar, as well as their relationship and various performance uses.
Aramid cloth is a type of fabric that is made from synthetic fibers. The term “aramid” comes from “aromatic polyamide”, which is the chemical name for the type of polymer used to make the fibers. The fibers are known for their exceptional strength and durability, making them ideal for use in high-performance applications. Some common types of aramid cloth include Nomex, Twaron, and Technora.
Kevlar, on the other hand, is a brand name for a specific type of aramid fiber that is made by the company DuPont. Kevlar is often used as a generic term for aramid fibers, much like Kleenex is used to refer to facial tissue. However, it is important to note that Kevlar is just one type of aramid fiber and is not interchangeable with other aramid fibers.
So what are the differences between aramid cloth and Kevlar? The main difference is that Kevlar is a specific brand of aramid fiber, while aramid cloth can be made from a variety of different types of aramid fibers. Kevlar is known for its high tensile strength and resistance to impact, making it a popular choice for applications such as body armor, helmets, and tires. Other types of aramid fibers, such as Nomex, are better suited for applications such as heat and flame-resistant clothing.
Despite their differences, aramid cloth and Kevlar are closely related. Aramid cloth is often made from a blend of different types of aramid fibers, including Kevlar. This allows manufacturers to create fabrics that have the desired combination of strength, durability, and other properties for a specific application. In fact, Kevlar is often used as a benchmark against which other aramid fibers are measured.
So what are some of the performance uses of aramid cloth and Kevlar? As mentioned earlier, Kevlar is commonly used in body armor, helmets, and other protective gear due to its high tensile strength and impact resistance. It is also used in the construction of tires, as it helps to increase their durability and resistance to punctures. Other uses for aramid cloth include heat and flame-resistant clothing, ropes and cables, and even musical instruments such as drumheads.
In summary, while aramid cloth and Kevlar are often used interchangeably, they are not actually the same thing. Aramid cloth is a type of fabric that can be made from a variety of different types of aramid fibers, while Kevlar is a specific brand of aramid fiber. Both aramid cloth and Kevlar are known for their exceptional strength and durability, making them ideal for use in high-performance applications such as body armor, helmets, and tires. Whether you are looking for heat resistance, impact resistance, or some other property, there is likely an aramid cloth or Kevlar product that will meet your needs.