DSM Dyneema is spearheading the latest innovations in mooring and tugging lines with the use of ultra-strong Dyneema fibre.

In order to better support the needs of the LNG and oil transport markets, and to show its commitment to this industry, DSM Dyneema for the first time introduced the product at the Gastech trade show held in Abu Dhabi last December.
“Through research and development and close collaboration with rope manufacturers and end-users, DSM Dyneema has been advancing synthetic rope technology by offering a range of rope and mooring applications that surpass traditional steel wire ropes for ship owners and operators,” said a company statement.
“The unrivaled strength-to-weight ratio of Dyneema allows rope manufacturers to engineer lighter and more flexible ropes without compromising strength.”
Dyneema is an ultra-strong polyethylene fibre that offers maximum strength combined with minimum weight. It is up to 15 times stronger than quality steel and up to 40 per cent stronger than aramid fibres, 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. It 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, the fibre is used in bullet-resistant armour and clothing for police and military personnel.
Dyneema is produced in Heerlen (The Netherlands) and in Greenville, North Carolina (US). DSM Dyneema is also a partner in a high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE) manufacturing joint venture in Japan.
DSM Dyneema stresses that ropes made from Dyneema provided a number of advantages for the end-user over traditional steel wire and conventional synthetic fibres. Its light weight makes handling lines easier and faster.  The low elongation of the material minimises rope backlash for improved safety. The strong yet soft Dyneema fibre also helps to reduce maintenance costs. Ropes with Dyneema will not damage chocks, bits, fairleads or other parts of the ship, nor do they need to be lubricated leading to less pollution, They also have an increased service life.