Company:
Brookwood Companies, Inc.

Project Details

Fabric 1

Priority™
Producer/Manufacturer: OTHER
Primary Use: Main Fabric



Please describe the project specifications

A US Federal Government agency approached us to develop a Berry compliant (100% made in the USA) waterproof and breathable rainwear material to replace an imported fabric. The challenge was to achieve high quality and durability at a low price point. Given the parameters, we were able to develop a new 2 layer laminate that is comfortable and functional against the skin. This material doesn't require a jacket lining, and therefore reduces total garment material and labor cost and is also more environmentally friendly, which are added benefits. The key fabric performance requirements are as follows:

Weight - 4.5-5.5 oz/sq yd (ASTM D3776)
Moisture Vapor Transport:
* Upright - 400 gr/m2/24hr minimum (ASTM E96 B 7a/)
* Inverted - 5,000 gr/m2/24hr minimum (ASTM E96 7b/)
Hydrostatic Resistance (Mullen Burst) - Initial - 110 psi minimum (ASTM D751 PROC A 6a)
Spray Rating - Initial - 100, 100, 100 (AATCC 22)

We were able to accomplish all the the specs with a made in the USA material and have begun production. The material lets moisture vapor out while protecting the wearer from getting wet from the elements. The customer is very happy to have a USA fabric source for this high performance material at an exceptional value.


What is unique or complex about the project?

What set this project apart from others and why it was chosen as an entry was the challenge of reshoring given quality requirements at a value. It made us dig deeper and think out of the box to find n innovative solution that worked for both our company and the customer.


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