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Old 05-31-2010, 10:02 AM   #51
NoBozo
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Stainless Steel, like every material, has applications best suited to the characteristics inherent that material. One excellent application for SS is in sailboat rigging. It's use in that application is universal.

There are times when a material may be ideal in a special application where that material is not normally used. A mooring may be one of those applications.

Carbon Fiber is one such material that is used in special applications where safety, strength and light weight is the main requirement...such as in structural members and body parts in Formula One race cars. We don't usually use carbon fiber in the family sedan, although the extra strength and light weight would certainly be Nice.
We are now using Carbon Fiber in custom built racing sailboats for masts, which are normally made of aluminum in production boats. Anyway, the list can go on and on where certain materials are suited to certain applications and cost is not a factor.

There is probably nothing wrong with using SS for moorings but I just feel that there are much more practical alternatives. For example, I wouldn't use Kevlar for docklines.


BTW: If you are buying marine related supplies, such as chain and fittings in bulk....or even in small quantities, have you tried Jamestown Distributors, in Bristol, RI. Their prices have always been competitive and their service excellent. NB

http://www.jamestowndistributors.com...675960.ajp13w1
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