Chain plates are steel plates on sailboats that distribute weight and provide support for rigging systems. They are connected to turnbuckles and rigging cordage and are attached to standard rigging covers or brackets. Sailboats use a complex system of ropes and pulleys to control the sails and put stress on rigging components, requiring counter-tensioning and shifting of the load through turnbuckles and chain plates. Chain plates come in different shapes and materials and are incorporated into a sailboat rig to support complex rigging systems and components.
A chain plate is a steel plate anchored to the hull of a sailboat and connected to various parts of the rig. Depending on the specific location and purpose of each chain plate, it can serve to help distribute weight, provide support, or serve as part of tension adjustment systems using turnbuckles attached to the chain plate and rigging cordage. Most chain plates are attached to standard rigging covers or brackets, which means that these straps, or in some cases bars, are attached to turnbuckles to allow adjustment of tension on various lines and sails used in rigging. most sailboats.
All sailboats, regardless of size or design, are rig dependent. Rigging is all of the apparatus required to propel the vessel through the wind, and includes masts, ropes, pulleys, sails, turnbuckles, and chain plates. Masts, the large wooden posts or beams seen on sailing ships, provide the basic framework for the sails. To control the sails, thus controlling speed and direction, sailors use a complex system of ropes and pulleys to open, close, and turn the sails at various points on the masts. Such systems put stress on rigging components and the structure of the vessel, requiring counter-tensioning and shifting of the load through turnbuckles and chain plates.
Chain plates provide the ability to distribute counter-tension stress through the structure of a sailboat. For example, the chain plate anchor covers, the large net-like rigging used to hold masts upright. Deck mounted chain plates and shank attachments attach deck rigging and other rigging apparatus to the boat in different locations depending on the support distribution needs of the boat. If the wind properties change, outriggers and covers attached to the deck prevent the masts from swaying too much and breaking or capsizing the boat. Where such covers, brackets and associated chain plates are mounted depends on the specific needs of the vessel.
Numerous chain plates are incorporated into a sailboat rig, with each chain plate having its own configuration, shape, material of construction, and design elements in relation to its placement and intended use. Some chain plates resemble steel bars with large bolts, while others resemble thin L-shaped brackets with bolts, like those used in shelving. Steel is the most common material used in chain plates, although iron and other metals are not uncommon, especially in historic sailing ship design plans. Several holes in the body of a chain plate allow offset between various bolts where the chain plate is attached to the hull.
Through the use of chain plates and other rigging apparatus, sailboats with lighter hulls are better able to support complex rigging systems and components. The weight of mortises and other supports on a sailboat are spread through the hull, along the deck, and against framing components through the use of plates and turnbuckles. Experienced sailors can quickly adjust to allow for changes in wind speed or direction, simply by screwing or unscrewing a turnbuckle attached to a chain plate.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
