Dyneema ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibres can now be used in cut resistant gloves for the food processing industry in Europe.
According to DSM Dyneema, the inventor and manufacturer of Dyneema, the gloves are ideal for use in the food industry, thanks to the very high level of protection they provide together with enhanced comfort and durability.
“Wearer comfort is equally as important as protection performance for safety managers and company’s employees, since it is a crucial factor in ensuring that gloves are actually worn. Durability is also important for the buyer.
“Gloves made with Dyneema have very long service lives and withstand multiple laundering cycles, delivering cost savings without compromising on performance,” the company said.
Within the European Union, materials and articles used in food contact applications need to comply with strict requirements laid out in the Framework Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 governing materials used in contact with food, as well as the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006.
DSM Dyneema’s UHMWPE fibre has now been granted approval under these EU regulations.
The US Food and Drug Administration granted approval for the fibre for use in food contact applications in 2006.
According to DSM Dyneema, its product is an ultra-strong polyethylene fibre that offers maximum strength combined with minimum weight. It is up to 15 times stronger than quality steel and up to 40% stronger than aramid fibres, both on a weight-for-weight basis.
Produced in Heerlen (The Netherlands), Flaach (Switzerland) and in Greenville (North Carolina, US), it is a widely-used component in ropes, cables and nets in the fishing, shipping and offshore industries.
