DSM Dyneema has established a strategic partnership with Load Solutions AS in Bergen, Norway, for the development, manufacturing, sales and marketing of link chains made with its proprietary Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber, which is marketed under the name Dyneema. The new TYCAN chains are manufactured from webbings and offer numerous economic, environmental and safety advantages over traditional chains made from iron and steel.

"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," says Kjell M. Veka, managing director at Load Solutions AS. "TYCAN chains with Dyneema are up to eight times lighter than regular steel link chains with the same strength."

According to Dietrich Wienke, manager of new business development at DSM Dyneema, Dyneema is the only fiber in the world capable of giving the TYCAN chains what they need, i.e., superior strength at lowest weight, unbeatable bending fatigue and abrasion resistance, plus excellent outdoor performance and endurance even in very harsh operating conditions. "DSM Dyneema and Load Solutions came together because we both understood the overwhelming advantages of link chains made with Dyneema," he explained.

The TYCAN chains are made with Dyneema DM20 fiber, based on Dyneema Max Technology, an innovative platform for extremely low-creep solutions. The fiber makes the chains extremely efficient and safe to use, resistant to chemicals and seawater-proof. Because Dyneema has a density of less than one, TYCAN is the only chain in the world that floats on water, and yet it can hold in place a wind turbine wing weighing six metric tons, a 60-ton battle tank, or even a 600-ton electrical mega power transformer.

The chains offer greater flexibility than ropes for holding heavy loads, and are easily shortened to the required length for any particular job, by doubling them back using hooks. Moreover, its lighter weight promotes easier handling with less noise. Hence, operatives can communicate much more easily, for example, which helps them work more safely and efficiently.

Field tests confirmed the advantages of the new chains. Mammoet Europe B.V., in Schiedam, the Netherlands, who evaluated their use on the company's mega trucks and trailers, expressed satisfaction with the TYCAN chaions, commenting that the chains were "very light and easy to use, and they improved the overall safety of our workers."

Nor Lines A/S, a shipping company in Stavanger, Norway, tested the use of TYCAN chains for tying down loads on ships.  According to Heidi Skare, operations manager, Nor Lines A/S, the new chains were used for lashing oversized and regular cargo on three cargo vessels over a period of several months and under challenging weather conditions. "The experience confirmed their huge benefits. We observed less damage and we experienced much easier and faster handling with better ergonomics and comfort. We are now ready to move to full fleet conversion with TYCAN chains on all of our nine special cargo vessels," she said.