What is Dyneema®?

Are all HMPE fibers the same?

Different manufacturers produce HMPE fibers and the properties vary based on how the material is treated. Dyneema® undergoes a specialized production process that refines the HMPE fiber by stretching and twisting it at different temperatures, resulting in incredible strength. Other HMPE fibers lack the extensive track record of Dyneema® in terms of UV light resistance, creep, and chemical durability. Dyneema® is manufactured by the Dutch company DSM and is marketed as the world's strongest fiber.

What makes HMPE so special?

HMPE fiber is 15 times stronger than steel from a weight perspective. Using a Dyneema® or general HMPE lifting sling allows you to achieve load capacities close to, and sometimes exceeding, those of steel wire, while benefiting from a sling that is about 80% lighter. HMPE is easy to handle, has high wear resistance, and withstands cutting wear better than polyester. Additionally, HMPE has high resistance to UV radiation and chemicals and is 2.5 times lighter with a smaller diameter than polyester.

What is Extreema®?

Extreema® is the brand from the supplier Lift-Tex® for products primarily made of Dyneema®. These products embody all the properties associated with Dyneema®.

Some Extreema® products are made from simpler HMPE fiber, not marketed as Dyneema®, to reduce costs. This simpler HMPE fiber is also manufactured by DSM, ensuring high quality. However, these products have a coarser dimension compared to Dyneema® because more fiber is needed to achieve the same maximum load.

When should I choose a sling with Dyneema®?

We always recommend Dyneema® slings for lifting loads over 15 tons. Polyester slings are heavier and bulkier than HMPE/Dyneema® slings, making them difficult to handle for loads over 15 tons. Although HMPE/Dyneema® slings have a higher price, they offer a longer service life and improved working environment. The smaller dimensions of HMPE/Dyneema® slings can reduce the number of slings needed in the workplace, leading to long-term savings. For example, up to 10 tons, you can reduce the number of slings to two: a 3-ton XS sling with the same size as a 1-ton polyester roundsling, and a 10-ton sling with the same size as a 4-ton polyester roundsling. This makes it more sustainable and environmentally friendly, especially with the new bio-based Dyneema® fiber.

Another advantage of HMPE/Dyneema® is that it floats in water, making it ideal for marine environments. Slings often end up in the water, and being able to retrieve them saves money and is better for the environment. Polyester absorbs water, making it heavier and potentially freezing in winter, which can be dangerous.