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New containers made with advanced composite RP10 panels are lighter and
stronger than traditional aluminum, delivering major weight and fuel
savings helping airlines reduce their environmental impact
URMOND (NL), October 6, 2009 - Following two years of successful flight
trials, DoKaSch GmbH, a leading manufacturer of air cargo equipment, today
introduced the new AKE lw-65 air cargo containers that are the first to be
made with RP10 panels made from advanced composite material technology from
DSM. The panels are designed to provide maximum strength at a minimum
weight and are both stronger and lighter than traditional aluminum used in
cargo containers. This advanced material breakthrough has been enabled
through the use of Dyneema®, the world’s strongest fiber™, and Aeronite®
resin from DSM.
The majority of the airline industry has recently committed to halve CO2
emissions by 2050 and is exploring all possible weight saving options that
do not compromise on safety or performance. The new AKE from DoKaSch is
more than 30 lbs (15.5kgs), or around 20% lighter than standard aluminum
containers. A typical mid size cargo fleet will load around 5,000 ULDs
(Unit Load Device) over the course of a year which could result in savings
of up to 1.5 million gallons (330,000 liters) of fuel, yielding a 28,000
ton reduction in CO2 emissions and potential cash savings of euro 2 million
($3 million USD) for airlines.
Klaus Borowski, Global Sales Manager for DoKaSch commented: “The issue is
clear. The airline industry needs to lose weight in response to rising fuel
costs and environmental and regulatory pressures. New material developments
and applications can help this.”
The DoKaSch lw-65 ULD with rigid RP10 panels replace aluminum sheets and
are constructed using the same proven structural extrusion framework. As
RP10 panels are up to 4 times stronger than aluminum sheets, the DoKaSch
lw-65 ULD is extremely tough, strong and durable. In addition, the lw-65
ULD has excellent resistance to heavy impacts and general wear and tear
which helps lower maintenance and repair costs by as much as 50% per year.
The lightweight RP10 panels have excellent adhesion properties allowing
IATA code stickers to be applied more easily and securely, avoiding damage
or loss of labeling.
The DoKaSch lw-65 ULD can also be manufactured in any airline color, which
allows for easy identification. In addition, the panels display exceptional
color and mechanical stability over their service life and are also FAR
25.853 certified.
“Advanced plastics and composite systems are making inroads in the aviation
industry, replacing metal in structural, interior and cargo applications to
help cut weight,” says Dietrich Wienke, New Business Development Manager,
Aerospace and Aviation, DSM Dyneema. “Working closely with our colleagues
within DSM Composite Resins has enabled the successful development of the
RP10 composite panel as a light weight solution for ULDs. We are fully
committed to the aviation industry and will continue to support it through
ongoing innovation and latest generation advanced light weight materials
and composite systems.”
The adoption of advanced composite, lightweight materials by the aviation
industry is in its early phases and needs to be supported by appropriate
testing and certification. DoKaSch and DSM Dyneema are taking the lead in
addressing this with the recent proposition of rigorous new material test
procedures for lightweight ULDs. The tests are designed to provide more
comprehensive assurance and validation of both the performance and benefits
of composites to the air cargo equipment industry.
“The advanced material solutions from suppliers and partners like DSM,
supported by a more comprehensive and stringent testing are helping the
industry address their weight issues,” adds Klaus Borowski.
DoKaSch light weight ULDs made with RP10 panels are already proving
themselves in service with several carriers around the world. Based on the
success of the AKE lw-65 inflight trials, DoKaSch has expanded its light
weight ULD product offering to include AKH and all types of main deck
containers, which are certified and commercially available.
About DoKaSch
Headquartered in Staudt, Germany, DoKaSch GmbH has been manufacturing
standard and customized advanced engineering cargo products for the airline
industry since 1989. DoKaSch GmbH today represents one of the leading
international suppliers of ULDs, such as air cargo pallets, air cargo
containers and active controlled refrigerated containers (active ULDs). The
company also provides extensive repair and maintenance services to its
client base including a one-hour response capability. DoKaSch has
facilities close to the Frankfurt Rhein-Main airport (FRA), at Hahn airport
(HHN), in Limburg, some 50 km north of Frankfurt, as well as in Miami
Florida. All DoKaSch GmbH facilities are certified by the relevant
aeronautical authorities.
For more information in aviation visit:
www.dokasch.com
www.aviation.dyneema.com.
www.dsmcompositeresins.com
DSM – the Life Sciences and Materials Sciences Company
Royal DSM N.V. creates innovative products and services in Life Sciences
and Materials Sciences that contribute to the quality of life. DSM’s
products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and
applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and more enjoyable
way of life. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health,
personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrics
and electronics, life protection and housing. DSM has annual net sales of
EUR 9.3 billion and employs some 23,500 people worldwide. The company is
headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations on five continents. DSM is
listed on Euronext Amsterdam. More information: www.dsm.com.
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