Sorely Tested

Winches and other deck hardware get lighter with every America's Cup, yet more is being demanded of them with every event

INTRODUCTION

The current generation of ACC hardware owes its level of sophistication not only to the advances made in recent years in manufacturing and materials technology, but to the accumulated experience gathered over a succession of Cups. The Millennium series in particular resulted in extra time between challenges, which was used to explore untried avenues with the potential to offer huge weight savings.

ACC development work also runs in tandem with other programmes with similar aims, including those for the Open 60s and the Volvo fleet. For this series the leading manufacturers have a range of equipment that is lighter, yet stronger and more efficient than ever.

The scene is dominated by Harken and Lewmar, who between them supply every syndicate competing in the latest America's Cup. For the world's leading manufacturers the Cup fulfils much the same role as the Grand Prix circuit does for the motor industry: a testing ground for the latest thinking and technology. With syndicates willing to invest substantial sums in the quest for each extra percentage point in performance, the Cup has consistently acted as a spur to development in design and materials. Underpinning all the efforts that go into hardware development are three key factors: reliability, strength and weight minimisation. Reliability is critical for any raceboat. While round-the-world crews may travel greater distances, for the number of manoeuvres and hours spent on the water in preparation, training and racing, there is little that can match ACC boats. In their near perpetual state of activity, the wear and tear on components is relentless.

Strength presents a greater number of uncertainties. The calculation of the loads developed by the competing boats is information closely guarded by syndicates, forcing manufacturers to do their own evaluations of Working versus Break load ‹ two factors that can converge uncomfortably on occasions.

To read the remainder of this article please go to the December 2002 edition of Seahorse, available at selected newsstands or by calling: + 44 (0) 1590 671899 or by email at: info@seahorse.co.uk

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Though windy, Round 1 of the LV Cup was notable for relatively few equipment failures - and none of the 'contrived' delays of 2000