Halyard locks have been around for many years, however recent times have seen great improvement in designs, with more simple and reliable systems available today.
Locks in the past were mostly designed to manage big loads on big boats. The aim is to be able to attach a sail (or a cable) to the top of a mast from deck, and to solve most of the problems one can encounter on a halyard such as stretch, chafe and mast compression.
The system is quite simple: it locks the sail into the mast once it is hoisted, without relying on a clutch or a winch.
There are different types of locks on the market for which you normally need a “trip line” – a dedicated line that goes up the mast to disengage the lock and be able to drop the sail.
The current systems offered by PROFURL & FACNOR don’t require a trip line anymore. The Design offices have been working closely with the sailing community to improve and develop both internal & external locks.
The halyard is only used to engage or disengage the lock. Basically, the sail locks itself once you arrive at full hoist and in order to unlock you simply pull the halyard down and the system unlocks itself.
The locks can be used on gennakers, code 0, staysails and even asymmetric sails. The installation of the internal version is very simple as the lock is fully integrated into the mast. Sizes available range from 2T to 50T!
Benefits:
- Reduces compression in the mast
- Keeps winches and clutches free in the cockpit (as the sail is in the lock)
- Greater ease of use of flying sails
- The constant tension allows the luff to be tight at all times due to no stretch in the halyard
Alternatively, locks can also be fitted externally onto the mast. This external version comes in either a swivel-lock version or a model that is attached by a loop or lashing.
The external models with loop body can be fixed onto your mast with a loop, lashing or mast tang at the desired height, and the halyard can then run down inside or outside the mast. This also means a smaller diameter halyard can be used, which is great for weight saving and budget…the range starts at 3T and can go to 30T+.
The swivel & lock models, with their double function, are compact and light. The pin is attached to a chain plate, and the body of the locking swivel flies from the deck to the top of the mast to get secured. Sizes range from 2 to 9T+.
The swivel & lock models, with their double function, are compact and light. The pin is attached to a chain plate, and the body of the locking swivel flies from the deck to the top of the mast to get secured. Sizes range from 2 to 9T+.
For more information please email Wichard @ info@wichard.com.au, go to www.wichard.com.au or contact your rigger or sailmaker to discuss your options.
Video: https://youtu.be/2V9NX9SgFvA
