Introduction
Table of Contents
Turf Guard is a synthetic grass product that is designed to withstand heavy usage and provide exceptional durability for landscapes and sports fields. The science and technology behind Turfguard set it apart from other synthetic turf options with its innovative fiber technology, proprietary backing systems, and unique infill materials. In this article, we will explore the key scientific elements that enable Turfguard to deliver unmatched durability and performance.
Monofilament Fiber Technology
At the heart of Turfguard’s durability is its specialized monofilament fiber technology. Monofilament fibers are made from a single strand of polyethylene material that is extruded to create blades that resemble natural grass. This differs from less durable slit-film or fibrillated turf fibers that are made by slicing strips of material or fraying fibers to create a blade shape.
Polyethylene Monofilament Fiber Advantages
Monofilament fibers are thicker and stronger than these other types, providing resilience against flattening and wear. Turfguard uses 100% polyethylene monofilament fiber technology in its products. Polyethylene contains UV inhibitors that prevent degradation from sun exposure. Turf guard fibers are also non-abrasive for better player safety.
The monofilament fibers used in Turfguard are approximately 200 microns thick. This exceeds the fiber thickness of most standard artificial grass products. Thicker monofilament fibers are less prone to breaking and retain their structure despite heavy activity.
W-Texture for Improved Turf Performance
Turfguard also employs advanced texture technology in its monofilament fibers. The fibers feature a special ‘W’ shaped texture along the surface of the blade. This texture helps the fibers remain upright even under heavy usage. It also improves traction and ball roll for sports field applications.
Backing Systems
Synthetic turf is composed of fiber tufts that are woven into backing materials. The primary and secondary backing systems are crucial for overall turf strength and durability. Turfguard uses only the highest-performing backings.
The primary backing used in Turfguard is a dual-layer woven polypropylene system. Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer known for its exceptional strength and resistance to stretching. The dual-layer weave provides added support and stability for the turf fibers.
Primary Backing
This primary backing features reinforcements with extra fiber density in high-wear areas of the field, such as center field in baseball or midfield in soccer. The reinforcements provide up to 50% more fiber per square inch for enhanced durability.
Secondary Backing
The secondary backing in Turfguard is a polyurethane coating that covers the underside of the primary backing. This flexible coating provides protection against moisture, bacteria, and chemicals. Polyurethane coatings prevent the breakdown of the primary backing from below.
Combination of Primary and Secondary Backing
The combination of premium primary and secondary backings in Turfguard allows the turf system to better withstand repetitive athletic activity, foot traffic, and abuse without compromising the turf fibers.
Infill Materials
The infill materials used in synthetic turf systems also impact overall field performance and durability. Turf Guard uses only the highest-performing infill combinations customized for the application.
For landscape applications, Turfguard utilizes Envirofill, an infill made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) rubber and silica sand. TPE rubber provides elasticity and shock absorption, while silica sand helps stabilize the fibres and prevent compaction. This results in a comfortable, natural feel that remains lush and resilient over time. Envirofill also contains antimicrobial agents to inhibit bacteria, mould, and mildew growth.
Cryogenic Infill for Athletic Fields
For athletic fields, Turfguard uses BrockFILL, an advanced infill system blend of sand and cryogenic-colored rubber. Cryogenic rubber maintains springiness and cushioning properties in cold temperatures when rubber can become brittle. The sand particles provide weight and stability. BrockFILL also contains anti-static compounds to prevent “splash”, the tendency for rubber to fly up when athletes are in action. This helps keep the infill in place and maintains consistent playability.
The premium infill materials in Turfguard prevent compaction, helping the turf maintain its cushioning capacity and fibre structure despite the constant athletic activity. The materials also retain their properties in all weather conditions.
Production Process
Turf Guard Exceptional Durability uses advanced tufting technology and specialized techniques to optimize the density and strength of its turf backs. Computer-controlled machines tuft the polyethene fibres through the primary backing, anchoring the tufts in place. Secondary back-coating is applied to fully secure the tufts.
Turfguard also utilizes sophisticated on-site quality control processes during production. This includes testing for fibre tensile strength, tuft bind strength, and other key durability metrics at multiple stages. Rigorous quality control ensures that all materials and components meet engineering specifications.
The final rolls of turf are visually inspected for defects, then wrapped and protected for shipment. Turf Guard turf arrives at the installation site fully inspected and ready for the highest performance.
Installation Best Practices
Proper installation is also essential for maximizing the lifetime of Turfguard synthetic turf. Turf Guard provides installation training and certification for its qualified dealers and installers. This covers industry best practices for site preparation, turf seaming techniques, proper infill installation, and more.
Correct techniques for seam welding result in strong, impermeable seams that withstand heavy activity. Proper infill levels and materials prevent fibre compaction and deformation. Adhering to Turfguard’s installation methods ensures the turf is positioned for optimal durability from day one.
Maintenance
Like any surface, proper maintenance is required for synthetic turf to achieve its maximum lifespan. Turfguard provides detailed reference guides for maintaining installed turf fields and landscapes over time.
Recommended care includes brushing debris from the turf fibres, blowing or raking out infill materials, and de-compacting infill when necessary. Annual deep cleaning with specialized extractors removes embedded organic materials. Avoiding the use of harsh chemicals preserves the turf components.
With proper ongoing maintenance, Turf Guard turf has maintained its playability, safety, and aesthetics for over a decade. The exceptional durability allows Turfguard fields to withstand up to 3,000 hours of play annually across various sports.
Conclusion
The science behind Turf Guard synthetic turf produces exceptional durability capable of withstanding constant athletic activity, foot traffic, and weather extremes over an extended lifetime. The specialized fibre technology, premium backing systems, customized infill materials, and rigorous manufacturing allow Turfguard to maintain safety, performance, and appeal longer than conventional synthetic turf. With proper installation and maintenance, Turfguard delivers lasting value and the highest-quality user experience.