CUSTOMERS BRING PROBLEMS, DICKSON PTL CREATES SOLUTIONS

While Dickson PTL focuses on four core markets (release liners, ventilation ducting, personal protective equipment and machine protection), the company is also adept at addressing highly specialized needs that draw on core competencies in heat resistance and flame retardancy.

As Alp Transit was completing a 60-kilometer (37-mile) tunnel in Switzerland, it needed a protective fabric during the finishing and polishing of rails, which presents high risks of fire because of hot chips. Dickson PTL developed a polyurethane-coated fiberglass material that was cut and stitched into 500-meter (1,600-foot) strips for protection during the entire project.

Another highly specialized solution was created for Russian firefighters working in the Siberian oil fields. These workers face hazards that range from extreme cold (-58 degrees F) to huge flames, not to mention the danger from moisture that can cause slips and falls. Dickson PTL provided a silicon-coated aramid knit fabric that was used as a liner to solve the challenge, while providing flexibility and comfort.

Other unique high-tech solutions from Dickson PTL have included materials for assuring water-tight seals on convertable tops, covers for Airbus jet engines that resist all types of weather, and materials that keep asphalt temperatures high during repaving projects.

Jean Paul Paccallet is a 21-year veteran with Dickson PTL, currently serving as the coating line manager. Once the coating line starts running, it’s like a living, breathing organism that requires constant attention. (Pictured above with machine operator Mohamed Madani, foreground.)

“Every day on the coating line is challenging, and every day is different. The coating line can be affected by temperatures, humidity and many different things that can change from day to day or even hour to hour. You must keep your eye constantly on the process and find a solution to any issues very quickly.”

CHRISTOPHE NOUVION, maintenance manager

A member of the Dickson PTL team since 2003, Christophe Nouvion, maintenance manager.

“Every day is a new day in terms of what you learn. The key word for our new coating line at Dickson PTL is ‘simple.’ It’s easy to run compared to the old system, and it’s a pleasure to work on this new line. We have more information on the process while it’s running, and we have more control over temperatures and precise pressures.”