Not an aramid nor a variation of Spectra or Dyneema, but a high performance thermoplastic multifilament yarn spun from liquid crystal polymer.
Additional information
Strength and Stretch Most important to the racer is the performance. At 50% of the breakload (most working loads are around 20/30% of break), Vectran shows no sign of stretch or creep and is compatible with the tight radii of modern deck gear without fear of breakage. The importance of rounding the leeward mark and going on the wind with sails set 100% is, in racing terms, invaluable. With high loads running up the leach from clew to head unwanted halyard stretch means repeated attempts to re-tension the halyard, wasting time and ground on the fleet. With no noticeable stretch at working load Vectran Racing ensures that your sails stay set leaving you to concentrate on boat speed, navigation and tactics.
This low stretch advantage was a key feature on the windward sections of the last Whitbread. Foresails can erase and distort in heavy seas, particularly when the boat slams, but yachts fitted with Vectran maintained perfect shape and trim.
As loads increase and boats become stiffer, eliminating or reducing stretch in lines becomes more important. Increasing line diameter is an option to counter stretch but Vectran Racing is a favourable option without increasing size.
Racing applications Vectran Racing’s low stretch performance makes it an ideal choice for racing halyards as well as other low stretch applications such as runners, foreguys and outhauls.
Find out more
The following product information has been provided by the manufacturer and is available to download (formats vary):
