Spinlock Rope Clutches
27 September 2022Spinlock Rope Clutches are deck hardware that holds rope lines and can withstand high loads. They can also help in releasing the ropes under load gently, avoiding any issues that could lead to losing control over direction and manoeuvrers.
Clutches most commonly feature a top and bottom jaw mechanism that is used to clamp down on the rope and is operated by a handle or lever. When the clutch is down/closed the clamping mechanism allows tension to be pulled on in one direction (usually in the direction of the winch), but when tension is pulled in the opposite direction the jaws clamp down on the rope and hold it in the one position. Alternatively, When the clutch is open, the jaws are inactive and allow the rope to pass through freely in both directions.
When changing clutches or installing new ones to your yacht it is extremely important to consider the rope’s diameter, the expected load range, budget/price and positioning. Rope diameter is important because various clutch jaws are specifically designed to a particular rope diameter range i.e. 6-10mm for example. If you put rope smaller than 6mm in a 6-10mm jaw, the clutch won’t hold the line when the handle is closed. If you put the rope over 10mm in a 6-10mm clutch, it will create excessive friction and more than likely you won’t even be able to close the clutch handle. For optimal performance aim for the middle of the rope diameter range, so 8mm rope in a 6-10mm clutch.
Positioning is important to consider when installing a clutch, so it can be operated effectively (opening and losing the handle without hitting anything), it must be thoroughly bolted with nuts and washers or tapped into a metal plate. How the lines lead to a winch is also important to consider, as sharp angles cause unneeded friction or clogging/difficulty in operating the winch.
Spinlock Offers a Wide Variety of Clutches
One brand that offers an excellent clutch range is Spinlock, an independent and innovative marine manufacturing company that has been around for over four decades. The Spinlock range has all requirements covered, as most models have options of a single, double, triple, quad or side mount option. Their effective design makes them easily serviced, and they offer a great range of spare parts for any repairs that may be required. Some models of clutch the company offers include.
• XAS: XAS are line-friendly clutches that can give optimised clutching and holding power without causing issues. They feature an easy-access handle for effortless holds or releases. For high performance on small diameter lines, owners can opt for 4-8mm jaws (XAS0408) or 6-10mm jaws (XAS0610).
• XTS: Holding mid-higher load ropes can then be achieved by XTS clutches. These clutches are often used for racing yachts inshore and offshore as they feature secure handle locking in open and closed positions. They also feature extruded alloy handle with a soft end grip and easy access to fasteners, allowing them to be used more conveniently by yacht owners. The XTS range comes with either 6-10mm jaws (XTS0610) or 8-14mm (XTS0814).
• XCS: When dealing with mid to higher load rope holding, the XCS Spinlock Clutches must be utilised. The XCS clutches can be used for lines with 6 to 14mm diameter. They can also handle loads of up to 1,200 kg, making them perfect for mast mounting. To further sustain higher load operations, these clutches boast aluminium sides, extruded alloy handle with a soft end grip, and a secure handle locking in open and closed positions. They also feature easy access to fasteners and ceramic-coated CAM and base for consistent holding and performance on modern lines.
• XXA and XXB: For high loads, Spinlock recommends the use of XXA and XXB products. This range of clutches can hold loads 50% higher than any other conventional clutch, making them useful for many applications. XXA clutches’ high load capacity can reach as high as 1,800 kg, with lines maximising 8 to 12mm in diameter. XXB clutches, alternatively, can hold up to 2,350 kg of loads. There is another step up from these to the XXC clutch which features ceramic jaws and can withstand higher loads again.
Purchase Spinlock Clutches from Riggtech
To acquire excellent Spinlock clutches, you can contact us at Riggtech or head straight to our online shop to make a purchase now. We also offer more sailboat products in our online shop, which you can visit here.
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