Equipment: The shopping guide for the start of the season
YACHT
· 24.04.2024
Electronics
Sailproof SP10S: New seaworthy tablet
With the SP10S, Sailproof presents a new waterproof tablet with an Android operating system. It offers a matt, sunlight-readable screen that is also said to be compatible with polarised glasses. A pressure sensor makes it possible to programme weather warnings in the event of sudden changes in air pressure. A GPS receiver is also integrated, which supports all current navigation systems. Price: 950 euros.
Battery energy systems: Mobile and modular power supply
The Schleswig-Holstein-based manufacturer Akku Energie Systeme equips Deutsche Post's electric fleet with lithium iron phosphate energy storage systems, among other things. With the Stromkiste, the company also offers a mobile 230-volt power supply. What sets it apart from other systems is its modular design. Depending on the required capacity, the power box can be fitted with several battery packs. These can even be changed during operation without interrupting the power supply. The battery packs can be charged in the power box using a 400-watt solar panel or shore power, or topped up using an external charger. The maximum capacity is 2,880 watt hours. The integrated inverter delivers a continuous output of 2,300 watts. There are also USB-A and USB-C outputs with up to 30 watts. The power box costs 1,300 euros, the battery packs 1,600 euros each.
Scanstrut ds-h-multi-blk: Flat and waterproof
Scanstrut's new deck bushing goes by the bulky name of ds-h-multi-blk. It has a particularly flat design and is suitable for multiple cables. Two 44-millimetre holes are drilled into the deck for installation. These are covered by a mounting frame, the actual sealing is then provided by a rubber plate or rubber block. The cable apertures are drilled individually into the block; cables with a diameter of 2.5 to 12 millimetres are possible. Price: around 60 euros.
Sailing clothing
Henri Lloyd Elite Offshore: Exciting new edition
The Elite Offshore oilskin jacket from Henri Lloyd is made from a lightweight three-layer fabric. The jacket is equipped with the typical Henri Lloyd hood with viewing windows and is unlined. The trousers have solid Cordura knee patches and a Cordura lining on the lower leg hem. For women there is a version with an openable trouser bottom. The Elite oilskin is available in the colours orange and black. In addition to the jacket and trousers, a drytop is also available (see Picture gallery at the top of the article). Prices: Jacket 885 euros, trousers 650 euros.
Elvstrøm SailWear: Victorious birthday outfit
To mark the company's 70th anniversary, Danish sailmaker Elvstrøm Sails is presenting a clothing line. The collection consists of shorts, crew jackets, polo shirts, bags, caps and other accessories that are intended to commemorate the numerous regatta victories of company founder Paul Elvstrøm.
Care
Mirka Deros I I: Improved sanding performance
The abrasives specialist Mirka has revised its random orbital sanders. The brushless motors of the Deros -I I models offer up to 20 per cent more sanding power. The LED display on the speed control has also been improved. A separate switch can be used to switch the device on and off independently of the set speed, and the control can also be locked to prevent incorrect operation. The Deros II is available with sanding disc sizes from 77 to 175 millimetres. Depending on the desired removal rate, a stroke of between 2.5 and five millimetres can be selected. The model with a 150 mm disc is also available with an eight millimetre stroke. Prices start at 530 euros.
Yachtcare Gelcoat Crack Repair: Touch-up pen for gelcoat
Hairline cracks or small flaws in the gelcoat are annoying, but often only an optical defect. However, repairing them with a classic repair kit is just as time-consuming as larger damage. Yachtcare's Gelcoat Crack Repair is designed for such cases. This is a thick nitro lacquer in a small brush bottle. The advantage over a polyester-based system is that nothing needs to be mixed, the material runs well and cures tack-free without the need for oxygen. In addition to concealing minor damage, it can also be used to protect repairs carried out with epoxy filler from UV radiation. We tried it out on a baking crate lid. Two thin coats were required to cover the epoxy filler, which could be applied within an hour. Small pores were filled well by the paint and the repair is practically invisible. Gelcoat Crack Repair is available in the white colours RAL 9010 and RAL 9001. Nine millilitres cost around 11 euros.
