September through February is football season in America. Every game, every fumble and every call is discussed, debated and analyzed. Family events are planned around being home, in front of the TV, so people can watch their favorite teams fighting it out on the gridiron, week after week, in hopes they’ll make it to the ultimate game – the Super Bowl!
One topic not often discussed in conjunction with football is how innovations in vinyl compounds have enhanced the game, both for the players and the fans.
Modern stadiums are very large, high-tech structures. They’re almost like small cities and offer fans many different experiences, aside from the game itself. IT infrastructure has become very important in these venues. Everything that happens during the game is either fed into, or is initiated from, a data center within the stadium.
A very high demand is placed on the electrical and technology systems in these massive structures. On-site data centers facilitate HVAC processes, point-of-sale transactions, security cameras and alarms, lighting systems, entertainment areas and big screen on-field displays.
Miles and miles of energy cables, copper and fiber optic data cables, CATV cables and security/fire alarm cables, produced with a broad range of PVC compounds, are tucked away behind walls, floors and ceilings, protected from wear and tear, outdoor weathering issues and potential fire hazards, while also keeping high-traffic areas safe and unobstructed.
Plumbing and water supply systems rely heavily on PVC pipes, which are easy to maintain and clean. For fans enjoying their favorite cold beverages during the big game, much of the concession stand tubing used throughout many stadiums is vinyl.
So many PVC compounds are used in a variety of different ways - carpet backing, floor mats, bumper guards, roofing materials, all the way out to the safety cones in the parking lot – the list goes on.
One of the more recent ways vinyl was incorporated into game-day prep - besides its many uses in tailgate and Super Bowl parties - was in 2013, when the NFL implemented its ‘All Clear’ policy. This rule, a security measure, requires all fans entering an NFL stadium to use a clear, see-through plastic or vinyl bag when carrying in items. And (as a heads-up) if you’ll be tailgating at NRG Stadium this weekend, they’re predicting a 60 percent chance of rain. You may want to bring a rain poncho – also made from vinyl!
PVC compounds have changed how players are protected during the game as well.
Shoulder pads have gone from bulky, cumbersome material, which provided very little protection, to a thinner, very sturdy and streamlined vinyl material. Knee and thigh pads are made from similar materials.
Helmets have evolved and are now made from a hard plastic outer shell, with a vinyl liner and padding inside.
It is mind-boggling how vinyl compounds are used in and around the game. From goal post padding and football laces, to the parking lot and the locker room – there should be no doubt that PVC is the MVP (Most Versatile Polymer) in the NFL!
Contact Teknor Apex to discuss your custom vinyl compound needs!
