US’ performance fabric manufacturer, Ultrafabrics, has partnered with Tapis Corporation and Franklin Products to create Atago, a revolutionary fabric solution. The company has launched it at the recently held Aircraft Interiors expo in Hamburg. Atago incorporates a state-of-the-art fire-blocking backcloth with Ultrafabrics’ industry-leading haptics.

Atago is named after the Atago Shrine in Tokyo, erected in 1603 to protect the residents from fire. No longer will the cushion, dress cover, and material need to be purchased separately. This streamlined supply chain reduces the amount of sewing and assembly required, reduces overall cycle time in manufacturing, and provides higher-level assembly at a reduced cost. Most importantly, it decreases fuel consumption and emissions and adds passenger comfort by eliminating rigid fire blockers, according to Ultrafabrics.

The inherent flame retardant properties of Atago exceed expectations: When combined with a traditional high-resilient polyurethane foam cushion, Atago passes burn tests with exceptional results. This prevents the need for additional fire-blocking fabric or introducing foam additives, such as graphite, to meet flammability requirements.

“Ultrafabrics exclusively partnered with Tapis for the initial distribution of this collection. The upholstery system is provided from one source, reducing the need to manage multiple suppliers while assisting with inventory management,” Jason Estes, vice president global sales and marketing at Tapis, said in a statement.

“This ground-breaking material reduces the number of components required, without sacrificing the look or performance. Atago lightens the load by up to one pound per passenger place but allows passengers to experience the same level of comfort and well-being that they have come to expect from Ultrafabrics’ products,” Rodney Howard, Franklin products sales director, said.