COMMERCIAL MARINE TECHNOLOGY
Technology, Fiber, Construction: Core ingredients for safety and performance
At New England Ropes, every rope for commercial marine applications begins with a good design. Engineers and our product development team review performance criteria based on a given application. Test products are manufactured and tested in our lab to measure variances to the performance criteria established early in the process. By varying the manufacturing process, fiber combinations, and constructions, we can develop products that perform better, last longer, and keep crews safer.
Strength in Every Strand: The Importance of Fiber and Construction
New England Ropes combines the highest quality fibers with the most advanced construction technology. Every line we manufacture acts as an integral component of a complex system, each with different performance requirements.
Nylon, for example, is recognized for its outstanding strength, elasticity and abrasion resistence. It is ideal for applications where stretch and energy absorption are critical, such as in dock and anchor lines. Additionally, nylon suffers minimal strength loss when exposed to sunlight.
Polyester has high strength and low stretch characteristics which makes it ideal for running rigging where durability and feel are important. Polyester, specifically categorized as either spun polyester (fuzzy) or filament polyester (smooth), also embodies excellent weathering abilities and abrasion resistance (wet or dry).
Technora®, the highest strength aramid fiber, is ideal for low stretch running rigging such as halyards. It does not creep under normal loads, but is subject to fatigue if cycled over a small radius. The black version of Technora® has superior resistance to UV degradation.
Dyneema®, ideal for lightweight running rigging, is characterized by its very high strength, low stretch characteristics as well as its ability to repel water. Unfortunately, Dyneema® has a low melting point which makes it susceptible to friction and is also inclined to elongate or creep under sustained loads.
Polypropylene is a lightweight, non-stretch fiber recognized for its ability to float. It is, however, highly susceptible to UV degradation and melts under high friction.
Continual innovation of our extensive designs ensures we manufacture the appropriate products to support all of your marine applications.
Single Braid: A flexible, supple construction that absorbs twist and resists kinking. Construction is ideal for mainsheets, furling lines and large dock lines. Used in Regatta Braid, Regatta Lite, Endura 12, V-12 and Mega Braid. Construction ideal for heavy marine applications where nylon, polyester or combination polyester/polypropylene lines range up to 4" circumference.
Double Braid: A braided cover surrounds a braided core, producing a rope designed for strength, durability, shape and easy handling. Construction used in running rigging and dock lines, including Sta-Set, Endura Braid, T-900, V-100 and Double Braid dock lines up to 10" circumference.
Parallel Core: A patented unidirectional fiber core with a braided cover, for a rope with lower stretch higher strength line than a double braid rope of equal size. Construction is ideal for halyards, sheets and guys, specifically Sta-Set X, Sta-Set X Plus, and Sta-Set X Lite.
3 Strand: Four-stage, balanced construction leveraged with an advanced stabilization process produces a durable, long lasting and flexible rope that wont harden with age. 3-strand rope is ideal for applications where grip, abrasion resistance and stretch are critical factors. Construction is ideal for anchor, dock, mooring and tow lines up to 1-1/8" as well as running rigging on traditional cruising boats.