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171st Air Refueling Wing (U.S. Air Force) Color Changing Mug

171st Air Refueling Wing (U.S. Air Force) Color Changing Mug

100 in stock

Regular price $17.99 USD
Regular price Sale price $17.99 USD
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171st Air Refueling Wing Color Changing Mug - Design

This dynamic mug design pays tribute to the 171st Air Refueling Wing (ARW) and its crucial role in global air power projection. The artwork features a stunning visual transformation, mirroring the unit's ability to extend the reach and endurance of flight operations.

Exterior Imagery

The primary design showcases the KC-135 Stratotanker, the backbone of the 171st ARW. The aircraft is rendered in sharp detail, symbolizing the unit's operational capabilities and its commitment to mission readiness. Initially, the Stratotanker might appear in a subdued color scheme, hinting at the aircraft's readiness for its vital refueling task.

The Transformation

As hot liquid is poured into the mug, the design undergoes a dramatic shift. Colors emerge and intensify, depicting an active air refueling operation. A second aircraft, perhaps a fighter or bomber, appears in flight, receiving fuel from the tanker. The transformation evokes the essence of the 171st ARW's mission: enabling extended air operations. The color change underscores the unit's ability to deploy across the globe and project air power.

Symbolism

The color change symbolizes the vital support the 171st ARW offers to other aircraft, as well as the important global reach of the Air Force. The design honors the unit's history and dedication to service, visually telling the story of air mobility and international cooperation. The appearance of the secondary aircraft represents the vital partnerships and support offered by the unit. The mug, once empty, can be seen as ready for its vital task, echoing the wing's commitment to be ready when called upon.

Size

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Color-changing ceramic mugs with a glossy finish, black exterior, and white interior. Available in one size: 11 oz (≈330 ml). Heat-reactive coating reveals your custom design when filled with hot liquid. BPA- and lead-free, with a comfortable C-handle.

This mug brings a playful twist to the daily coffee or tea ritual. At room temperature, it looks like a simple black mug with a glossy finish. But add a hot beverage, and your chosen design fades into view, showing vivid colors against the white interior.

The ceramic body is durable enough for repeated use, while the C-shaped handle balances comfort and grip. Printing uses sublimation techniques that fuse color into the heat-reactive surface for crisp results when the design appears.

  • Material: ceramic with glossy black exterior and white interior.
  • Size: one standard size, 11 oz (≈330 ml).
  • Finish: glossy glaze with heat-sensitive surface.
  • Printing: sublimation process produces crisp, vibrant colors.
  • Safety: BPA-free and lead-free, suitable for everyday drinks.
  • Effect: design is faintly visible when cold, fully revealed when hot.

Perfect as a novelty gift or a fun personal mug, the heat-reactive design makes coffee breaks more engaging. It works well for morning coffee, afternoon tea, or hot chocolate.

  1. Daily routine: fill with any hot beverage to reveal your chosen artwork.
  2. Gifting: the “magic” reveal makes it a memorable present for birthdays, holidays, or office exchanges.
  3. Office use: sparks conversation while still being practical for everyday drinks.

Note: for best results, avoid designs that rely heavily on deep black backgrounds, as they may blend with the mug’s surface when cold.

Unlike standard mugs, color-changing mugs require gentler care to preserve the heat-reactive coating. Hand-wash only — avoid the dishwasher and abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the finish and reduce the effect.

The mug is safe for short microwave use when heating liquids, but repeated high-heat cycles may shorten the lifespan of the coating. Always allow the mug to cool before washing.

Available in one classic size: 11 oz (approximately 330 ml). It’s large enough for most standard coffee makers and fits comfortably in most cabinets.

Size guide

All measurements are product dimensions in inches.

11 oz
Height (in) 3.78
Diameter (in) 3.23
Diameter w/ handle (in) 4.76

Note: measurements are approximate; slight variations may occur due to manufacturing tolerances.