DSM Dyneema opens new production line in U.S.
DSM Dyneema, the world's largest producer of high-performance polyethylene fiber, officially opened its first yarn production line at the U.S. Dyneema facility in Greenville, North Carolina. The production line has a capacity of 600 to 750 tons per annum, depending on product mix. DSM will now produce both fiber and unidirectional bullet-resistant material in the U.S, which DSM Dyneema sees as its second home market.
Although the Greenville site will serve clients globally, DSM Dyneema plans to serve U.S. military requests first, due to the current situation of increased demand for personal security and protection against terrorism in the U.S.
Colonel John Norwood, project manager, soldier equipment of the U.S. Army, who attended the opening ceremony today said, "Initial tests show that Dyneema has excellent performance characteristics and works well with a variety of ceramic tile materials. Opening this plant today expands the U.S. production base for backing material critical to Small Arms Protective Insert (SAPI) production, and enables the U.S. Army to meet or possibly exceed established weight requirements for all SAPI plates."
With global demand for high-performance polyethylene fiber still growing strong, DSM Dyneema has shown its commitment to the market, with a specific focus on North America. "We have taken our responsibility as a global market leader to invest in new capacity", said DSM Managing Board Chairman Peter Elverding today in Greenville. "And in view of this growth pattern that we see in all markets and regions, we are currently exploring further investment plans to meet this growing demand."
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