Using and Fitting our Cleats

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Q: Why does Clamcleat® not publish safe working loads (SWL) or break loads for its cleats?

Ans: The quality, type and style of the rope or cord plays a major role in the performance of the cleat. Normally the better the quality of the rope the greater holding power, also some cleats are designed to slip once they exceed the desired holding load as a safety feature including securing fabrics such as sunshades or covers.

Q: Do you get a better performance with an Aluminum cleat?

Ans: Aluminum cleats do not improve the performance of the cleat, but they can achieve higher holding loads and they also might improve the lifespan of the cleat especially if the rope will be in contact with the teeth whilst the rope is being pulled through during adjustment.

Q: What different coating are there for the Aluminum cleats?

Ans: The standard coating for the cleat is a Stoving Aluminum silver enamel coating. For extra protection from corrosion and a high-tech appearance the cleats are also available in a dark grey Hard anodized finish. The part no in suffixed with “AN” to identify the hard anodized finish.

Q: What is the best way to fix an aluminum cleat into a carbon fiber spar?

Ans: You need to create a barrier between the aluminum cleat and the carbon fiber surface to stop electrolytic de-composition. The barrier can be created by cutting a thin shim of plastic to the shape of the cleat and drill the fixing holes (the retail card the cleat is sold on is ideal to use as the shim), also use aa inhibitor or anti corrosive jointing compound such as Duralac on the fixing.

Q: Do you need to put a barrier between the Aluminum cleat and the stainless-steel fixing?

Ans: You need to add a inhibitor or barrier compound between the fixings, the Aluminum cleat and the mast or boom. For example, Daralac anti corrosive jointing compound.

Q: How long should a Nylon cleat last?

Ans: This really depends on the usage, the quality and age of the rope used etc. so is very difficult to gauge. The ultraviolet rays will discolor the cleats over time and in very sunny climates may affect the life of the cleat. In extreme climates the life expectancy should be 10 -15 years depending on usage and in more moderate climate 20 + years.

Q: How long should an Aluminum cleat last?

Ans: This really depends on the usage, the quality and age of the rope used etc. so is very difficult to gauge. The ultraviolet rays will discolor the cleats over time and in very sunny climates may affect the life of the cleat. In extreme climates the life expectancy should be 10 -15 years depending on usage and in more moderate climate 20 + years.

Q: Can I fit my cleats using pop rivets?

Ans: Using pop rivets to fit your cleat is a tidy quick way of securing the cleat. Ensure the pop rivet is at 90 degrees to the cleat when fixing and with certain smaller cleats the head of the pop rivet gun will not sit onto the pop rivet when in place so you will require to add a spacer between the gun and the rivet.   

Q: What type of rope or cord will give the best performance on my cleats?

Ans: In our experience a braided good quality rope gives you the best holding performance.

Q: What is the largest cleat Clamcleat make?

Ans: The CL220 is the largest cleat in the Clamcleat® range and is designed for a rope from 12-16mm 3/8 to 5/8”.

Q: Is there any maintenance required to a cleat to keep it performing well?

Ans: We would recommend flushing the with fresh water as often are you can.

Using and Fitting our Cleats

How our cleats work

A deceptively simple ridged 'V' groove holds ropes firmly, yet is devoid of any moving parts to break or seize. It allows the immediate release of the rope by a short upward and backward pull.

Always tension the rope before it enters the cleat. Dragging the rope backwards over the teeth may cause damage, especially to the nylon cleats.

Clamcleat® rope cleats are unsuitable for use with metal ropes.


Fitting

Most cleats are provided with countersunk fixing holes. Countersunk head screws or bolts of the recommended size should be used; bolts being preferred. If using rivets with a powered fixing gun, make sure the pressure is not set too high.

Fastenings must be entered straight so that the heads do not protrude to snag the rope. Several of the cleats have been designed with a groove in the base enabling them to be fitted to both flat and curved surfaces.


Tapered Pads

As an aid to optimum rope alignment many models can be mounted on Tapered Pads, especially when a fairlead would not be appropriate.


Complementary ranges to satisfy all needs

Marine grade nylon cleats offer very good value for money, for both production builder and sailor alike. They are ideal for most applications where high loads or rope surges are not likely to be encountered. Nylon cleats are corrosion resistant and will last for many years outdoors.

Aluminium cleats are highly successful in providing a complete answer to rope burn. They are unaffected by the heat generated by a rope surging back through a cleat as well as being suitable for sub-zero temperatures. Corrosion resistance is good. Our research into cleat materials over the years has shown aluminium to be far better for high performance cleats than any polymer, irrespective of any fibre reinforcement or additive. These factors make aluminium cleats the best choice for demanding applications.

All alloy cleats are available in our STANDARD SILVER FINISH. Selected cleats are also available in a HARD ANODISED FINISH, which gives a high-tech and fashionable appearance as well as offering superior resistance to sea water corrosion. For military use, alloy cleats can be painted black or supplied hard anodised.





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