The Netherlands — September 30, 2013 — At METS 2013 (Marine Equipment Trade Show, 19-21 November in
Amsterdam RAI), DSM the producer of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), branded as
Dyneema®, will show how the world of yacht racing will be reaching levels of extreme performance
with the introduction of Dyneema® SK99, the strongest fiber ever made by DSM.
Edwin Grootendorst, Global Segment Director at DSM Dyneema said, “Cutting edge performance
in the world of racing yachts demands cutting edge products. Dyneema® SK99 is our latest innovation
for running rigging. Naval architects employ super computers and theoretical fluid dynamic modeling
software to ensure that racing boats can reach their maximum potential speed on all points of the
wind.
As any rigger, skipper or trimmer knows, transferring wind energy from the sails to the hull
is the job of the rigging. Poor performance rigging can make the difference between winning or
losing races and optimum power and acceleration is a matter of millimeters. When it matters,
Dyneema® SK99 will be there pushing boats faster; helping to win races and we are looking forward
to revealing the experience we are building with this exciting product.”
Dyneema® SK99 delivers the highest tenacity available in a light weight, polymer fiber to
date showing a 7% increase over SK90 and 20% over SK75 and SK78. This translates into thinner,
lighter weight lines than traditional ropes, or lines with the same diameter but with significantly
increased strength. The result is better performance from more compact rigging, which is lighter,
takes up less space, lowers resistance and increases speed. The modulus is 10% higher than SK90 and
35% higher than SK75 and SK78. This improvement in modulus translates into lower stretch, better
sail performance and thus faster possible boat response.
Running rigging made with Dyneema® is the product of choice on boats where it matters. Ropes
with Dyneema® are used on boats that range from the fastest, ultimate performance boats and round
the world endurance racers, to recreational yachts. It has proven to deliver results and retain its
properties over an extended lifetime and is not affected by the tough environment that can be found
around the oceans of our world.
The full range of Dyneema® products, including SK99, will be available for the complete
spectrum of yachts and their rigging needs through our licensed partners and can be seen at METS
2013 with the following selected yacht supply partners:
- Gottifredi Maffioli S.p.A
- Liros GmbH
- Marlow Ropes Ltd
- English Braids Ltd
- Geo Gleistein & Sohn GmbH
- New England Ropes Corp.
- Teufelberger
- Hampidjan hf
- Corderie Henri Lancelin
Posted September 30, 2013
Source: DSM Dyneema
