Performance improvement of Dyneema(R) in ropes

The application of synthetic fiber ropes in the offshore industry is increasing. For various working ropes, for lifting ropes, horizontal positioning, riser support ropes, for floating pick-up ropes, seismic gear and more recently mooring ropes for drilling and production rigs Dyneema(R) is being used. These applications are very demanding and require careful engineering of the rope system. Strength per unit weight, tension- and bending fatigue, abrasion resistance and service life all become criteria for use. If diameter, strength or weight are critical because of handling, then Dyneema will be an option. With the introduction of an improved technology a new Dyneema SK75 fiber grade has been introduced having a 30% higher strength in than the standard Dyneema SK60 grade. In an extensive testing program Dyneema SK75 has been tested versus SK60. It is concluded that in overall performance (strength, tension- and bending fatigue) the ropes based on Dyneema SK75 are a major step forward over the already good performance of Dyneema SK60.