If you want ropes with low stretch on board, you can hardly avoid Dyneema fibres. High strength, hardly any stretch, UV-stable, insensitive to kinking and abrasion-resistant - the material seems to be made for sailors. Unfortunately, however, it is not only the performance data of the fibre that is impressive, but also the prices. As a result, only much cheaper polyester cordage is generally used in the original equipment of large series boats, and high-performance fibres are not found on many older cruising yachts either.
Disillusionment follows when sailing. Even in the first gust, the luff sags and ugly creases form. But that's not all, the cloth changes its profile. It becomes more bulbous, generates more heel, drag and rudder pressure - characteristics that slow the boat down and make steering uncomfortable. The original trim can be restored with the halyard winch, but only for a short time until the line gives way again.
So should we dig deep into our pockets and buy high-quality strips for 8 or more euros per metre? That would solve the problem, but basically it would also be shooting sparrows with cannons. This is because such high-performance ropes not only have little stretch, but also an enormous breaking load, which is not necessary on cruising boats.
This is precisely where the latest development from Dyneema manufacturer DSM comes in. The SK38 fibre is said to have almost as little stretch as the high-quality Dyneema SK78 and is significantly cheaper. The only drawback is the breaking load - although the values are still significantly higher than those of polyester.
That sounds promising. The test in YACHT 12/2017 clarifies whether the fibre and the ropes braided from it are actually a good alternative to high-performance ropes. The magazine will be available from newsagents from 23 May or can be ordered directly from the YACHT website. can be ordered online here.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
