A new superlight and superstrong military air cargo pallet and net system was unveiled at the show yesterday.
Dutch firm DSM Dyneema has teamed up with America’s Capewell Components to produce what it is describing as the world’s lightest air cargo pallet and net system that will provide greater strength at lowest weight enabling higher-altitude and longer flights with reduced fuel consumption.
Dyneema is a high performance polyethylene fibre that can match steel for its strength and durability but is significantly lighter. At the show the partnership is showing how the fibre is being used to develop cargo nets that can lift the equivalent of 20 cars at a fraction of the weight of steel cables.
Dietrich Wienke DSM Dyneema’s market development manager for aerospace said “people associate weight with safety and performance but this lightweight version is just as safe,” says Dietrich Wienke. “The system will help the military meet its strategic objectives for improving the performance of their supply chains today and into the future.”
On the booth Wienke demonstrates the relative weight of the two products. “You can see how much weight can be saved which allows greater payload or fuel savings.”
The Dyneema fibre also provides enhanced camouflage properties through its exceptionally low visibility to infrared, near infrared and radar detection.
The same fibre has been used by the company for secure cockpit doors. It is 15 times stronger than quality steel and 40% stronger than aramid fibres. It also floats in water and is extremely durable and resistant to moisture.
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Source: Flight Daily News