If you want your ceramic body armor plates to keep you safe when you need them the most, it is important to take care of them. In this article, we will give you tips on how to take care of your ceramic body armor plates so that they can last a long time and work well when you need them to.

Proper care and maintenance of ceramic body armor plates are essential to ensure their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan. By following manufacturer guidelines and implementing best practices for storage, cleaning, inspection, and replacement, you can maximize the life of your ceramic body armor plates and ensure that they provide reliable protection when you need it most. For information on the care and maintenance of other types of body armor, check out our overview.

Storage of ceramic body armor plates

The first step in caring for your ceramic body armor plates is proper storage. When not in use, ceramic plates should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture can damage the plates and compromise their effectiveness. You should avoid storing ceramic plates in an environment that is too hot or too cold, as this can cause the ceramic to expand or contract, leading to cracking or warping. For example, if you need to store body armor in your vehicle and you live in a very cold or hot region, then you’d want to consider steel body armor plates over ceramic.

It is also important to store ceramic plates in a location and by a means where your plates are not likely to be accidentally dropped. A heavy duty hanger such as the Tough Hook allows you to hang your carrier with plates loaded and ready to go.

Cleaning and inspection of ceramic body armor plates

Regular cleaning and inspection are essential to prolonging the life of ceramic body armor plates. It is recommended to clean the plates after each use and inspect them for any signs of damage or wear and check out the expiration date. Spartan Armor Systems® goes above and beyond to make sure our ceramic plates are as high quality as they can be. We wrap our ceramic plates in a high-quality Cordura® wrapping, on top of extra padding on the front, in case of drops. Since the plates are wrapped, the cleaning and inspection process is a little different.

Here are some tips for cleaning and inspecting ceramic body armor plates from Spartan Armor Systems®:

• Inspect the plate for any obvious signs of damage.
• Avoid using any cleaning agents or solvents on the plate, as they can damage the material. Use a soft, dry cloth or brush to wipe away any debris or dirt on the surface of the wrap.
• To inspect the plate for cracks or signs of wear, you will need to hold it up with two hands and attempt to twist the plate. If there is any “give” or movement, then there’s a chance that your plates might be cracked.
• If you notice any damage or wear on the plate, stop using it immediately and seek to replace your ceramic body armor plate. Our amazing customer service team is always here to answer any questions you might have. Give us a call today: (520) 396-3335

It is important to note that even if there are no visible signs of damage or wear, the effectiveness of ceramic body armor plates can still deteriorate over time. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly inspect and replace the plates if necessary. The shelf-life of ceramic body armor is 5 years, make sure to keep track of the manufacture date of your ceramic plates.

Replacement of ceramic body armor plates

If a ceramic body armor plate has been hit by a bullet, dropped, shows signs of wear, or is getting to the end of its 5 year shelf-life it is recommended to replace your armor. A compromised plate can put the wearer at risk and may not provide the level of protection it was designed for.

When replacing ceramic body armor plates, it is important to find high-quality replacement plates that meet the same standards and specifications as the originals. Spartan Armor Systems® offers a range of high-quality ceramic plates that are independently tested to meet NIJ standards.

Proper care and maintenance of ceramic body armor plates are essential to ensuring their effectiveness and prolonging their life. By following these tips for storage, cleaning, inspection, and replacement, you can ensure that your ceramic body armor plates are always ready to provide the protection you need.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for care and maintenance. With proper care, your ceramic body armor plates can provide reliable protection for years to come.

FAQ:

Q: How often should I inspect my ceramic body armor plates?

A: It is recommended to inspect your ceramic body armor plates before and after each use. Additionally, it is recommended to inspect your plates at least once a month if they are in storage.

Q: Why is it important to take care of ceramic body armor plates?

A: Proper care and maintenance of ceramic body armor plates are essential to ensure their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan. This is crucial to ensure reliable protection when you need it most.

Q: How should ceramic body armor plates be stored?

A: Ceramic plates should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is important to avoid storing them in an environment that is too hot or too cold, and they should be kept in a secure location such as a locked cabinet or safe.

Q: How should ceramic body armor plates be cleaned and inspected?

A: After each use, ceramic body armor plates should be wiped clean with a soft, dry cloth or brush. It is important to avoid using cleaning agents or solvents and to inspect the plates for any signs of damage or wear. If any damage or wear is found, the plate should be replaced.

Q: When should ceramic body armor plates be replaced?

A: Ceramic body armor plates should be replaced if they have been hit by a bullet, dropped, show signs of wear or reach the end of their 5 year shelf-life. A compromised plate can put the wearer at risk and may not provide the level of protection it was designed for.

Q: Where can I find high-quality replacement ceramic body armor plates?

A: Spartan Armor Systems® offers a range of high-quality ceramic plates that are independently tested to meet NIJ standards. It is important to find replacement plates that meet the same standards and specifications as the original plates.