Are you wondering what the difference is between DTRS75 fabric and our new D50T fabric?
First, they are both made by Challenge Sailcloth. The same company that makes Ultra fabric and Ecopak fabric.
DTRS75 problems and why we are switching.
Over the course of 2 years of using DTRS75 we had about a 5% failure in delamination of the inner lamination layer. We suspect this was a quality control issue on a couple rolls, since the product returns came in random sporadic waves over 2 years. If you had or have a problem with a product with DTRS75 fabric contact us and we will replace it at no cost to you.
Advantages of D50T over DTRS75 fabric.
- Improved lamination layer
- Improved adhesive layer
- Quieter in use
- Better printing quality
- Better wear over time
- Weight is about the same
- Slightly lower cost
Tensile strength tests for D50T and DTRS75
Both fabrics are almost identical in strength.
How does Challenge D50T fabric compare to Dyneema?
There is no doubt that Dyneema is stronger. In fact, 1.0 Dyneema is about 4 times stronger (tensile strength) than D50T when you only look at the data.
In the case of dry bags, stuff sacks, and food bags.... it doesn't need to be that strong. While Dyneema's tensile strength is extremely strong, it is still prone to punctures and small holes. That's where lightweight fabrics like D50T, with an outside WOV layer to protect it, come in handy.
Cost difference between D50T and Dyneema
The end product is about 30% lower in cost than Dyneema, in most cases.
Weight difference of D50T and Dyneema
D50T is substantially lighter than 2.92 Dyneema and is only slightly heavier than Dyneema 1.43.
Is D50T good for backpacks?
For now, we are going to say no. Although we have several test backpacks made in D50T fabric and they have held up great, but its still too early to tell. For backpacks we recommend heavier Dyneema 2.92 and 5.0, as well as Challenge Ultraweave fabric and Challenge Ecopack EPLX200 and EPLX400 fabrics.