Switching to Composite Standing Rigging: All the Benefits that You Should Expect

29 June 2021

Sailing boats are comprised of core components that allow them to work effectively. One of these components is the standing rigging. The standing rigging is often composed of fixed lines, wires, or rods that can all support the mast or bowsprit of the sailing vessel. The components of the standing rigging also help in reinforcing the spars against wind loads.

The materials used for standing rigging components are typically durable enough to last for a long time. But if you have finally decided to replace your old standing rigging components, then you may want to consider composite standing rigging as your next standing rigging option.

Composite standing rigging feature tons of benefits that can make your sailing boat more efficient. Some of its benefits are as follows:

Noticeable Weight Changes

When switching to composite standing rigging, your sailing boat may acquire noticeable weight changes due to its accompanying components. The weight of composite standing rigging components is around 75% less than the conventional standing rigging components. With reduced weight, your sailing boat can obtain a substantial increase in the righting moment. It also stabilises your boat effectively, granting you the ability to sail faster. Composite standing rigging likewise allows you to handle the sailing boat better. The addition of composite standing rigging can also help lower the heel angle, reduce fuel consumption, decrease pitching moment, and increase acceleration out of tacks.

Sustained Break Strength

Another remarkable benefit of composite standing rigging is that it can sustain its break strength for a long time. The overall composition of composite standing rigging can imitate the similar stiffness or stretch of your previous standing rigging components. This benefit alone allows your mast to be effectively supported without expecting any drawbacks. It likewise grants your sailing boat the ability to perform the way it was initially designed and created, preventing any issues along the way. And as previously mentioned, the use of composite components can also boost their overall break strength by around 50%, which make them significantly stronger than conventional standing rigging components.

Accompanying Longevity

Composite standing rigging components may be more expensive compared to conventional ones. But with proper maintenance, they are expected to last longer than their counterpart. You must ensure that your sailing boat’s battens or sails will not rest against the shrouds. You must also make sure that the sheets or halyards will not come across with your composite verticals. And if you notice that the braided covers of your composite standing rigging have some issues, then it is time for you to have them inspected and maintained. Applying a proactive approach in checking and maintaining your composite standing rigging will certainly make its components last for a very long time.

All these features of composite standing rigging make it cost-effective for a lot of sailing boat owners. If you want to acquire some, feel free to reach us at Riggtech.

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