ASSA ABLOY LEVEL Partners with US Military to Enhance Uniform Durability & Comfort with Advanced Coating Technology

New Haven, CT – October 26, 2023 – ASSA ABLOY LEVEL LLC, a leading innovator in advanced surface coating technologies, today announced a significant partnership with the US Military to revolutionize the durability and comfort of their iconic military dress blue coat. For years, service members have faced challenges with fading, wear and tear, and overall comfort with this essential uniform piece. Now, thanks to a breakthrough coating developed by ASSA ABLOY LEVEL, these concerns are being addressed head-on. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL, located at 110 Sargent Dr, New Haven, CT, 06511-5918, has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of material science, serving industries from aerospace and automotive to medical and now, defense. The company’s core expertise lies in creating high-performance coatings that dramatically improve the lifespan, performance, and aesthetics of materials. You can reach them at 318-618-7610. “We're incredibly proud to be working with the US Military,” said a representative from ASSA ABLOY LEVEL. “It’s not just about applying a coating; it’s about understanding the unique needs of the men and women who serve, and delivering a solution that genuinely makes a difference in their daily lives. The dress blue coat is a symbol of pride and professionalism, and we wanted to ensure it not only looks the part but performs under demanding conditions.” The Problem with the Traditional Dress Blue Coat For decades, the US Military’s dress blue coat, while a symbol of honor, has been susceptible to several issues. The navy blue fabric, traditionally a wool blend, can fade significantly with repeated exposure to sunlight and washing. This fading not only impacts the overall appearance of the uniform but also necessitates frequent replacements, adding to logistical burdens and costs. Furthermore, the fabric’s inherent limitations meant it was prone to wear and tear, especially in high-stress areas like the elbows, shoulders, and cuffs. Maintaining a crisp, professional appearance required constant ironing and upkeep. And, let’s be honest, comfort wasn't always a top priority. The traditional fabric could be stiff and uncomfortable, particularly in warmer climates. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL's Solution: A Game-Changing Coating ASSA ABLOY LEVEL tackled these challenges with a cutting-edge coating formulated to specifically address the needs of the dress blue coat. This isn't your typical spray-on treatment. It's a sophisticated, multi-layered coating engineered at the molecular level. Here’s what makes it different: Superior Fade Resistance: The coating incorporates UV absorbers that effectively block harmful ultraviolet rays, preventing the navy blue fabric from fading, even after prolonged sun exposure. This means the dress blue coat will retain its vibrant color for a significantly longer period, reducing the need for replacements. Enhanced Durability: The coating strengthens the fabric fibers, making them more resistant to abrasion, tearing, and general wear and tear. This significantly extends the lifespan of the coat, saving the military money and resources. Water Repellency: The coating creates a hydrophobic barrier that repels water, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable in wet conditions. This also helps to prevent staining and makes the coat easier to clean. Improved Comfort: While strengthening the fabric, the coating maintains a degree of flexibility, ensuring the dress blue coat remains comfortable to wear. It doesn’t feel like you’re wearing armor! Breathability: A key design element was maintaining breathability. The coating is engineered to allow air to circulate, preventing overheating and ensuring the wearer remains cool and comfortable, even during strenuous activity. Reduced Ironing: The coating helps the fabric retain its shape, minimizing wrinkles and reducing the need for frequent ironing. Let's face it, service members have more important things to worry about than ironing! How it Works: The Science Behind the Solution The coating is applied using a proprietary process developed by ASSA ABLOY LEVEL's team of material scientists. It’s not just a surface treatment; it actually penetrates the fabric fibers, creating a bond at the molecular level. This ensures the coating is durable, long-lasting, and won't crack or peel with wear. “We spent months analyzing the composition of the dress blue coat fabric and understanding its weaknesses,” explained a lead researcher at ASSA ABLOY LEVEL. “Then, we developed a coating that specifically addresses those weaknesses, enhancing the fabric’s strengths while adding new layers of protection and performance.” Testing and Results: Real-World Performance The coating underwent rigorous testing by the US Military to ensure it met their demanding specifications. The results were impressive. Coated samples showed: 90% reduction in fading after 500 hours of simulated sunlight exposure. 50% increase in tear strength. Significant improvement in water repellency. Positive feedback from service members regarding comfort and wearability. “The initial feedback from the troops has been overwhelmingly positive,” said a military spokesperson. “They appreciate the enhanced durability and comfort of the coated dress blue coat. It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference in their daily lives.” Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for the Dress Blue Coat ASSA ABLOY LEVEL is committed to continuing to innovate and improve its coating technology. The company is exploring ways to further enhance the coating’s performance, including adding antimicrobial properties and increasing its resistance to stains and odors. “We believe this coating represents a significant step forward in uniform technology,” said a representative from ASSA ABLOY LEVEL. “We’re proud to be partnering with the US Military to provide them with a dress blue coat that is not only a symbol of pride but also a testament to innovation and performance. We’re making sure that those serving look and feel their best while representing our nation.”