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Arridatoi e Tenditori

Turnbuckles and Tensioners

Turnbuckles and tensioners are essential components for tensioning, adjusting and securing cables, shrouds, guardrails, lifelines and other elements on board.


⛓️ NAUTICAL TURNING HOOKS

Turnbuckles are mechanical devices used to adjust the tension of cables and shrouds , especially on sailboats.

✅ Where to use them:

  • Shrouds and mast stays

  • Lifelines (safety cables on the sides)

  • Lifeline for safety harnesses

  • Also on awnings or tubular structures

🔧 Types of turnbuckles:

Type Description Typical use
Eye/Eye Two ring ends Light shrouds
Eye/Fork A fork end with pin Lifelines, lifelines
Fork/Fork Two forks with thorns Main shrouds, rigid structures
Right/left thread Fine adjustment without disassembly All types

📐 Materials:

  • AISI 316 stainless steel : salt-resistant and durable

  • Some models in chromed bronze or zinc/aluminium (less common)

⚠️ Important note:

  • Always lock the turnbuckle with safety nuts or cotter pins

  • Some models have plastic covering or heat shrink sleeve to prevent abrasions and jamming


🔩 TENSIONERS

Turnbuckles are similar to turnbuckles, but often simpler and used for:

  • Awnings, covers, tarpaulins

  • Quick-fix points (less structurally critical)

  • Nets, elastic ropes, light cables

They are generally:

  • More compact and maneuverable

  • With hook/eye , hook/hook , or carabiner structure

  • Used where high loads are not required


🛠️ Key differences

Characteristic Turnbuckles Tensioners
Main use Shrouds, guardrails, structures Tarpaulins, nets, awnings
Material Stainless steel, bronze Stainless steel, plastic, aluminum
Regulation Precise, threaded Faster, easier
Blocking Nut, cotter pin Not always necessary

🔧 Practical advice

  • If you use shroud turnbuckles: ✔️ correct sizing and ✔️ certified tightness

  • For lifelines: choose fork turnbuckles and flexible stainless steel cable

  • For awnings: technical plastic or stainless steel hook/hook tensioners are also suitable

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