Setting the standard for MEG4

Becoming a trusted leader in the mooring industry

In 2018, the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (better known as the OCIMF) launched the fourth edition of its Mooring Equipment Guidelines (better known as MEG4). This publication set the standard for the design, safety, and performance of modern mooring systems, including ropes – and Dyneema® was proud to play a key role in developing these important guidelines.

Passing the test

All ropes made with Dyneema® fibers are more than a match for MEG4 and other industry standards. Unlike other manufacturers, we rigorously test the minimum breaking strength not only of our fibers, but also in rope constructions.

But for us, MEG4 is just the starting point. We welcome that it addresses rope strength at the moment of purchase and is an important datapoint – but even more important for reliable mooring operations is strength over time. At Dyneema®, we’ve invested heavily in understanding this factor and improving the behavior of our fibers accordingly.

As a result, Dyneema® SK78 fiber is precision engineered to stand up to fatigue, abrasion, creep, and temperature extremes. And with no standard tests for measuring abrasion and fatigue in mooring lines, we decided to build our own – simulating real-world conditions and evaluating product performance. To do it, we’ve designed and constructed a suite of state-of-the-art testing equipment to enable us to model and accurately predict mooring ropes’ lifetime performance.

Discover the FACTs

Making the switch to synthetic

Traditional isn’t always best. In the mooring industry, there’s a growing understanding that synthetic-fiber-based ropes – lighter, more ergonomic, easier and faster to use – have the edge over steel wire alternatives. Today, the conversion from steel to HMPE is being accelerated by standards such as MEG4 and by the increase in the number of ports and transporters requiring vessels to be equipped with synthetic mooring and towing lines. Failing to adapt means facing important (and potentially costly) insurance implications.

We recommend switching sooner rather than later – but it’s important to remember that not all HMPE is the same. Dyneema® SK78 fiber takes synthetic mooring line performance to the next level, delivering unmatched strength plus the safety, reliability, and durability operators need in the modern maritime industry.

After all, that’s why we’re a trusted partner of the OCIMF, helping to set the standard in mooring practices.

Learn about Dyneema® SK78 fiber in mooring lines

Three things to keep in mind when switching to HMPE mooring lines

Looking for new mooring lines? Here’s what you should be asking your rope supplier about.

Good fiber: We recommend Dyneema® SK78 fiber, a threefold upgrade versus earlier grades and the new standard for mooring ropes.
Good rope design: Jacketed or unjacketed, lay lengths, termination, coating choice… These are just a few factors to consider.
Good service package: Look for all-round support to ensure reliable operations.

There’s more advice where that came from. Contact us here

Contact our sales team

Compliance with new and changing mooring regulations can be daunting, but you can rely on our team to help you navigate national and international requirements with our Dyneema® SK78 fiber and a wealth of other solutions.

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Tailor-made recommendations for your mooring assemblies
Expert understanding of mooring conditions at a wide range of berthing environments around the world
Unrivaled knowledge of rope performance for optimal safety
Support with lowering installation costs for mooring systems
Advice on regulatory compliance