Chafing (nautical) explained

In sailing, chafing is the process of wear on a line, sail or yard caused by constant rubbing and fretting.[1] Various methods are used to prevent chafing, such as employing chaffing gear or shifting halyards to move their wear-point.[2] Chafing of lines that rest on a choke on a boat can be prevented by putting a protecting material around the line. Traditionally ropes were wrapped in canvas and lubricated with tallow; however, plastic sleeves or pipes (sometimes as simple as a piece of old garden hose) are more common in recent times.[3] Chafing of a sail rubbing against a cable can be prevented on large ships by tying a baggywrinkle around the cable.[4]

Notes and References

  1. Book: Naish, G.P.B. . Whitlock . P.C. . Bathe . B.W. . Villiers . A. . The Visual Encyclopedia of Nautical Terms Under Sail . Crown . 1978 . 978-0-517-53317-8 .
  2. How to prepare your yacht for anything: Preempting chafe, rig and crew problems. Yachting World. 15 April 2020. Vicky Ellis.
  3. How to Prevent Chaffing of Mooring Lines. Classic Boat. Richard Toyne. 11 July 2023.
  4. Web site: "Baggywrinkle" in Marine Glossary. nauticalvoice.com. 11 July 2023.