Product History

Helman Engineering Fiber Tensioner Division has devoted the past eighteen years to the development of the most advanced, universal tensioning system on the market. Since the September 1984 delivery of its first operational prototype tensioner, Helman Engineering has worked extensively with most major commercial composite, Filament Winding and aerospace manufacturers. A SBIR research contract from USAF Wright Patterson Aeronautical Labs enabled Helman Engineering to further its knowledge and expertise, resulting in a quantum technological leap in the art of tensioning.

Worldwide Reputation

 Following its relocation from Lincoln, Nebraska to Greenville, South Carolina in 1989, Helman Fiber Tensioner Division further enhanced its tensioner system capabilities, as well as expanded its product line to include air chucks, air shafts, roller tension sensors, tension meters and related products. Helman has established its name world wide in the composite, filament winding and fiber handling industry. 

Company Purchase

In 2010 the president and founder of Helman, Marvin Helman, sold the business to pursue retirement. MasterWorks, an engineering and manufacturing firm in Taneytown, Maryland, now operates the company as Helman Tensioners Inc. The company is dedicated to offering the same high quality and dependable product that was developed and manufactured by Helman Engineering.

Typical Customers

Typical customers are government, aerospace, aircraft, research and medical manufacturing facilities. Some of the government labs who have relied on Helman Tensioners are Edwards AFB, Phillips Lab at Kirtland AFB, Lawrence Livermore, Sandia National Lab, Los Alamos, China Lake and NRAD (Navy Command Control and Ocean Surveillance Center).

Presently, Helman's market base has expanded well beyond composites to many other tensioning and manufacturing delivery systems.