DSM's high-performance fiber provides highest strength at lowest weight, enabling higher-altitude and longer flights with reduced fuel consumption
BERLIN, 27 May, 2008 - At the Berlin Air Show booth #9213, Hall 9, DSM Dyneema BV and Capewell Components LLC, a US manufacturer of military aerial delivery and life support systems, are jointly showcasing a new military air cargo pallet and net system featuring Dyneema®, the world's strongest fiber™. The new pallet and cargo net system delivers an unmatched combination of durability, low maintenance, very low weight and mass for easier handling, expanded freight capacity, the ability to fly longer and at higher altitudes, environmentally conscious design, and better fuel economy. Thanks to the exceptional strength-to-weight ratio provided by Dyneema® High Performance PolyEthylene (HPPE) fiber, the new Capewell pallet and net system is the lightest in the world.
Dyneema® fiber also provides enhanced camouflage properties through its exceptionally low visibility to infrared, near-infrared and radar detection. Lawrie Wilson, Business Manager Airlift Cargo Systems, of Capewell said, ''By collaborating with DSM Dyneema we achieved record-breaking weight reduction while enhancing strength and durability for our new pallet and net system. This system will help the military meet its strategic objectives for improving the performance of their supply chains, today and into the future.''
In addition to its strength and light weight, Dyneema® fiber demonstrates 10 times higher abrasion resistance than traditional net materials; increased softness and flexibility to reduce damage to the plane and its fixtures; the highest chemical resistance of any synthetic fiber to withstand aircraft fuel and fluids; and exceptional bending fatigue properties for extended life. At the end of the lifecycle of a net, the material can be recycled and reused into other applications. Further, the reduced mass of Dyneema® fiber -compared to other synthetics at equal strength - means more cargo space is freed up for additional freight.
Dietrich Wienke, market development manager for Aviation & Aerospace, DSM Dyneema, said, ''Through continuous technical innovation and strong partnerships, DSM Dyneema is meeting tough requirements for fiber-based applications that combine unmatched performance with environmental and economical benefits. Working closely with Capewell, we have demonstrated the wide array of advantages that Dyneema® fiber can bring to air transport operations.''
Capewell Components Co.
Capewell Components Co. is the world's leading provider of innovative Life Support and Aerial Delivery solutions.
About DSM Dyneema
DSM Dyneema is the inventor and manufacturer of Dyneema®, the world's strongest fiber™. Dyneema® is an ultra strong polyethylene fiber that offers maximum strength combined with minimum weight. It is up to 15 times stronger than quality steel and up to 40% stronger than aramid fibers, both on weight for weight basis. Dyneema® floats on water and is extremely durable and resistant to moisture, UV light and chemicals. The applications are therefore more or less unlimited. Dyneema® is an important component in ropes, cables and nets in the fishing, shipping and offshore industries. Dyneema® is also used in safety gloves for the metalworking industry and in fine yarns for applications in sporting goods and the medical sector. In addition, Dyneema® is also used in bullet resistant armor and clothing for police and military personnel.
Dyneema® is produced in Heerlen (The Netherlands) and in Greenville, North Carolina (U.S.A.). DSM Dyneema is also a partner in a high modulus polyethylene (HMPE) manufacturing joint venture in Japan. Further information on DSM Dyneema is available at www.dyneema.com.
DSM - the Life Sciences and Materials Sciences Company
Royal DSM N.V. creates innovative products and services in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences that contribute to the quality of life. DSM's products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and more enjoyable way of life. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrics and electronics, life protection and housing. DSM has annual sales of almost EUR 8.8 billion and employs some 23,000 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations on five continents. DSM is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. More information on DSM can be found at www.dsm.com.
