Chafing

Progressive wear caused by rubbing between a line, sail, cable or other component and another surface.

Movement under load can abrade fibres, coatings, stitching or metal at fairleads, cleats, spreaders, stanchions, sheaves and contact points. Internal fibre-on-fibre movement, heat and contamination may also damage a line even when external wear looks limited.

Chafe protection spreads or separates contact but can conceal deterioration and must itself be inspected. Preventive measures include fair leads, smooth fittings, suitable bend radius, load sharing, protective sleeves and repositioning contact points before strength is materially reduced.