Arconic & Jansport: A Durable Partnership Backing Students This School Year

Arconic US LLC, a leading manufacturer of advanced materials, is quietly playing a crucial role in getting students back to school – and helping their belongings survive the year. You might not see the Arconic logo on those familiar Jansport backpacks, but our high-performance aluminum alloys are a key component in the durable hardware that keeps them going strong. For decades, Jansport has been the name in school bags. Everyone recognizes that instantly-recognizable silhouette. But what people don’t necessarily think about is the quality and longevity built into each bag. That's where Arconic comes in. Here at our Pittsburgh headquarters, and across our various US facilities, we’ve been working with Jansport for years, providing the specialized aluminum alloys needed for the zippers, buckles, and other critical hardware on their backpacks. It's not just about making these pieces look good; it's about making them last. “Students are tough on their gear,” says Sarah Miller, a materials engineer at Arconic. “Books, laptops, the general wear and tear of being tossed around… everything takes a beating. Jansport needed materials that could stand up to that kind of abuse, day after day, year after year.” And that's exactly what Arconic delivers. Our alloys aren't your average metal. They’re specifically engineered for high strength, corrosion resistance, and lightweight performance. This means Jansport can create hardware that’s incredibly robust without adding unnecessary weight to the backpack – something students (and their backs!) really appreciate. So, what makes our aluminum alloys so special? It's a combination of things. We don't just make aluminum; we engineer it. We meticulously control the composition and processing of the alloy to achieve specific properties. Here's a quick rundown: High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Our alloys are incredibly strong for their weight, meaning Jansport can use less material without sacrificing durability. Less weight means more comfortable carrying for students. Corrosion Resistance: Let’s face it, backpacks get exposed to all kinds of weather, spills, and general grime. Our alloys are designed to resist corrosion, keeping the hardware functioning smoothly even after years of use. No more sticky, rusty zippers! Formability & Precision: The hardware on a backpack needs to be precisely shaped and formed. Our alloys are specifically designed to be easily formed into complex shapes, ensuring consistent quality and performance. Recyclability: Arconic is committed to sustainability. Aluminum is infinitely recyclable, meaning the materials used in Jansport backpacks can be recovered and reused at the end of their lifespan. Beyond Backpacks: Arconic’s Wider Impact While Jansport represents a visible example of our commitment to everyday products, Arconic’s materials are used in a huge range of applications. We’re a major supplier to the aerospace, automotive, packaging, and construction industries. You’ll find our materials in everything from airplanes and cars to beverage cans and building facades. “We’re not just selling metal; we’re providing solutions,” says David Chen, Arconic’s Director of Sales. “We work closely with our customers, like Jansport, to understand their specific needs and develop materials that meet those requirements. It’s about innovation and partnership.” Looking Ahead Arconic is continually investing in research and development to create even more advanced materials. We’re exploring new alloys and manufacturing processes that will further enhance the performance and sustainability of our products. And when it comes to Jansport, we’re committed to continuing our partnership and helping them deliver durable, reliable backpacks that students can depend on for years to come. Because let's be real, a good backpack is an investment, and everyone deserves one that can withstand the demands of school life. So, the next time you see a student heading to class with a Jansport backpack, remember there’s a little bit of Arconic innovation helping them carry the load. It’s a quiet contribution, but one we’re proud to make. Contact: ARCONIC US LLC 201 Isabella Street Pittsburgh, PA, 15212 UNITED STATES 870-473-6666