Welding Dyneema X Gridstop?

[Kodiak Firesmith]

Folks,

 

In my ongoing search for ways to augment my MLD Core with side pockets, and perhaps a front stuff pocket, I came across this video:

Which discusses using DIY methods to achieve strong welded seams.  I’m particularly interested in using Pellon EZ Steam adhesive on Dyneema Gridstop and 4-way (nylon/lycra) stretch material.  Anyone done anything similar at all?

 

Thanks!

[Matt Allen]

I am also looking into welding seams. I hope people with experience Chime in.

[Colin Krusor]

I have some experience trying to weld pure dyneema fabrics in basically the same way as the video. If you try to weld Gridstop, the Dyneema threads will shrink imperceptibly and loose all of their strength. Dyneema gets its strength from very long polyethylene molecules packed together in parallel. When heated, even if there is no visible melting, those molecules curl up and their orientation becomes random inside the fiber and the strength disappears. So, welding with heat, in my experience, essentially removes the Dyneema from the heated zones around the seams, making the seams the weakest part of the pack.

[Author]

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