A Canadian-based manufacturer of protective vests for working dogs is using Sonobond’s SeamMaster High ProfileUltrasonic Sewing Machine it its manufacturing process.

Patrol-Swat vests produced by K9 Storm Inc. have secure watertight enclosures for all their ballistic components, exceeding National Institute of Justice wet-conditioning standards that require ballistic vests to be waterproof—even after submersion for 30 minutes (NIJ0101.6).  Besides maximum barrier protection, the lightweight, rugged, custom-fitted Kevlar vests also ensure safe amphibious activities.

“Since bulletproof materials – like Kevlar, contained in vests – lose their life-saving effectiveness when exposed to water, it’s absolutely critical that the seams in the inner nylon shell are perfectly fused,” says Melissa Alleman, vice president, Sonobond Ultrasonics.  “Ultrasonic bonding creates a strong molecular bond that’s impervious to moisture and eliminates stitch holes, glue gaps, fraying and unraveling, substantially reducing any risk of damage to the interior contents of the vest.”

Prior to learning about Sonobond’s ultrasonic equipment via the Internet, K9 Storm used a single-needle assembly method for its Patrol-Swat vests.  The company was convinced to acquire its first ultrasonic sewing machine based on the equipment’s ability to help meet NIJ water submersion standards; the speed and ease-of-use of the equipment; and the friendliness of Sonobond’s staff.

“K9 Storm uses the lightest possible materials when manufacturing the custom-fit K9 Storm Patrol-Swat vests.  The Sonobond ultrasonic seaming system is an integral part of the manufacturing process enabling us to achieve watertight ballistic enclosures,” says Jim Slater, president, K9 Storm Inc.  In fact, he anticipates acquiring more Sonobond machines for assembling the company’s products.