Lightweight synthetic chains developed for load handling
7 January 2015 by Daniel SearleDSM Dyneema has introduced chains for handling heavy loads made from its lightweight synthetic Dyneema material.
The chains were developed in partnership with Norwegian company Load Solutions AS and are produced from DSM's ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene material Dyneema DM20.
Called Tycan, the chains are fabricated from webbings and are manufactured for Load Solutions by Spanish textile manufacture Industrias Murtra S.A.
Dietrich Wienke, manager of new business development at DSM Dyneema, said: "Our fibre is the only fibre in the world capable of giving the Tycan chains what they need: superior strength at lowest weight, unbeatable bending fatigue and abrasion resistance, plus excellent outdoor performance and endurance even in very harsh operating conditions."
Kjell M. Veka, managing director at Load Solutions, said: "The heavy steel chains that the cargo lashing market has relied on until now are difficult and noisy to use, they can rust, and they are tough on cargo, equipment and lashing crews. Tycan chains with Dyneema are up to eight times lighter than regular steel link chains with the same strength."
Several sets of field tests have been completed, including an evaluation on trucks and trailers by Mammoet Europe.
The chains have passed the first and second levels of certification by international classification society DNV GL, with the final certification expected early this year.
