Fairlead

A fitting that guides a rope, wire or cable along a required lead or through a change of direction.

Fairleads include smooth eyes, horns, rollers and specialised deck or bulwark fittings used for mooring lines, sheets, control cables and other running systems. Their shape, strength and alignment must suit the line material, diameter, load and range of lead angles.

A fairlead can reduce contact with sharp edges but does not eliminate friction or chafe. Misalignment, small bend radius, seized rollers, rough surfaces or side loading can damage the line and fitting, so both require inspection and suitable chafe protection where needed.