Roller Furling
Roller furling is used on sailing boats to roll or unroll a sail, typically the jib or genoa, around a stay to quickly deploy or stow the sail.
Roller furling is a popular sail handling system on modern sailboats, designed to make managing headsails more efficient and safer, especially for short-handed crews. The system consists of a rotating drum, usually located at the base of the forestay (the wire or rod that runs from the boat’s bow to the mast), and a swivel at the top of the stay. The sail, typically a jib or genoa, is attached to the forestay and can be rolled around when not used.
To deploy the sail, the furling line (wrapped around the drum) is released, allowing the sail to unfurl as the sheets (the sheets used to control the sail) are pulled in. To furl the sail, the sheets are eased, and the furling line is pulled, causing the drum to rotate and roll the sail back around the forestay. This system allows for partial furling, meaning the sail can be reefed (reduced in size) to suit different wind conditions without changing sails entirely.
Roller furling systems are particularly advantageous because they eliminate the need to go forward to the bow to raise or lower the headsail, which can be dangerous in rough conditions. With roller furling, the sail can be controlled from the cockpit, making sail handling much safer and more convenient. Additionally, the sail is always ready to be deployed or stowed quickly, useful when conditions change suddenly.
There are different types of roller furling systems, including manual and electric versions. Manual systems are operated by pulling on the furling line, while electric systems use a motor to rotate the drum. Some systems are designed for light-duty use on smaller boats, while others are built to handle the loads of larger sails on bigger vessels.
One of the key considerations with roller furling is sail shape. When a sail is partially furled, its shape can become less efficient, leading to reduced performance. To mitigate this, some sailors use specially designed sails, such as furling genoas with foam luffs, which help maintain a better shape when reefed. However, even with these modifications, a partially furled sail will not perform as well as a properly sized sail for the conditions.
Maintenance is also an important aspect of roller furling systems. The furling drum and swivel should be regularly inspected for wear and tear, and the furling line should be checked for chafing. Keeping the system clean and lubricated will help ensure smooth operation and extend its lifespan.
In summary, roller furling is a highly effective system for managing a sailing boat’s headsails, offering convenience, safety, and ease of use, particularly in changing weather conditions. While it may slightly compromise sail performance when reefed, quick and safe sail handling benefits make it a popular choice for cruisers and racers alike.
