Individual CBRN Protection

HDT offers a full range of collective protection systems and components that provide individual protection against CBRN agents when positive pressure cannot be maintained. Individual distribution (ID) systems are also called ventilated face-piece collective protection systems.

ID systems provide filtered forced air directly to the user's protective mask through chemical-resistant hoses while providing relief from lens fogging and heat build-up. Protective masks are negative-pressure devices. They operate by the user breathing and creating negative pressure between his or her face and the mask relative to the environment. That negative pressure causes air to flow through the filter into the space between the mask and the user's face. The effectiveness of the mask depends primarily on the proper fit of the mask and the contours of the user's face. A gas mask can be converted to a positive-pressure device by connecting it to a dedicated air source — either a pressurized air tank, usually carried on the crew member’s back, or a filtration unit. ID systems are ideal for use while vehicles are in transit or at rest vehicles. They can also be used safely at limited distances outside a vehicle and to support patients. They are also recommended for supplying clean air to people confined in unsealed rooms.

The U.S. and allied militaries employ ID systems as primary CBRN systems in vehicles that cannot maintain overpressure and as secondary CBRN systems (backup systems) in positive-pressure protected vehicles. Originally designed for older combat vehicles, they are currently installed on virtually all classes of combat and tactical vehicles.

HDT manufactures the two ID systems in wide use by the U.S. military today: the 12-cfm M8A3 and the 20-cfm M13A1. The use of these products is another example of the strict quality standards and dependable performance exhibited by every product offered by HDT today.

Products