RATCHET BLOCK™
Series 40 & Series 55 Ball Bearing Ratchet Blocks with Compression Sheave
Series 40 & Series 55 Ball Bearing Ratchet Blocks with Compression Sheave
This latest generation of Ratchet Orbit Blocks™ builds on the proven performance of the original with the introduction of Ronstan’s patent-pending compression sheave range. Rather than relying on an aggressive sheave profile to grip, the smooth sheaves use steeper side walls to generate the grip by squeezing the rope. The result is smoother releases, better control and less rope wear. The new blocks also feature a stronger thru-rivet design, developed to better withstand the shock
loads often seen on skiffs and sportsboats. Used by double Olympic gold medallist Matt Wearn during his ILCA™ World Championship podium finish in Ireland, the feedback was simple:
“The release feels noticeably smoother under load, while still giving plenty of holding power. It makes handling easier and more consistent, especially when you’re making constant adjustments throughout a race.”
– Matt Wearn
Anatomy of an Orbit Winch™
1.
QuickTrim™ patented self-tailing feature for rapid sail trim and smooth adjustment.
2.
Simple disassembling and servicing.
3.
Low line entry due to gearing configuration.
4.
High strength aluminium bronze forged gears.
5.
Power Rib™ ensures a controlled grip at all times, whether trimming or easing.
6.
Ball bearings carry the thrust loads, roller bearings carry the radial loads of the drum to minimise rotational friction.
7.
Light weight aluminium stem and drum.
8.
Optional 3-speed configuration in the larger sizes provides impressively fast line speed in first gear.
Features
- Upgraded thru-rivet for extra strength, delivering greater confidence when handling the shock loads associated with modern asymmetric sailing
- Patent-pending innovative Compression Sheave provides high holding power without abrasive rope contact.
- Smooth sheave profile reduces rope wear and extends line life.
- Precise, predictable release improves trimming and easing under load.
- Reduced line vibration delivers improved control and feedback.
- Proven ratchet mechanism provides powerful holding performance with reduced effort.
- Lightweight, high-strength construction fordemanding racing and cruising applications.
- Series 40 available with Dyneema® link head.
- Swivel shackle head allows unrestricted rotation and alignment under load.
- Automatic and manual ratchet versions.
- Suits 5-7mm diam. lines
- RF56100U accepts 8-10mm diam. lines
- MWL 175-250kg (385-550lb)
- BL 500-750kg (1100-1650lb)
APPLICATIONS
- Dinghy mainsheet systems.
- Mainsheet systems on sportsboats using RF6 or RF7 mainsheet swivel cleat unit.
- Spinnaker sheets on dinghies.
- Spinnaker sheets on sportsboats and small keelboats (lateral lead blocks).
- Control line applications on larger yachts.
BEARING SYSTEM
Low-friction, high compression strength ball bearing system provides smooth, efficient operation across a wide load range.
MATERIALS
- Sheave: Anodised aluminium.
- Swivel shackle head fitting: Grade 316 stainless steel.
- Ball bearings: High compression strength acetal.
- Frame/cheeks: Toughened, glass fibre reinforced nylon.
- Soft link: UV stabilised, multi-strand SK78 Dyneema®.
NO TOOLS REQUIRED
Full disassembly and reassembly can conveniently be performed without the need for any tools for sizes 20ST, 30QT, and 40QT.
To remove the drum, pull back the spring-loaded release latch and a slight anti-clockwise rotation will allow the self-tailing arm to be lifted from the winch. From there, the drum can be removed from the winch centre stem.
When completing reassembly in reverse order, an audible click confirms positive engagement between the self-tailing arm and bayonet notches on the centre stem. These notches allow the self-tailing arm to be locked in one of 8 positions at rotational increments of 45 degrees.
ELECTRIFY YOUR ORBIT WINCH™ EXPERIENCE
Orbit Winches™ are now available with either an E1 Single Speed Electric Motor for sizes 30QT and 40QT, or E2+ Two- and Three-Speed electric drive, offering greater control, higher line speeds and increased versatility for keelboats large and small.
Designed for confident short-handed sailing, the electric Orbit Winches™ combine manual and electric operation with integrated intelligence and protection. The electric motor features an integrated control box and illuminated push buttons, providing overload, thermal overload, low-voltage, accidental start and reverse polarity protection, with clear status feedback. Three-speed models add a mechanically activated high-speed ratio for rapid line recovery when required. At the core is a high-quality, European engineered and manufactured series-wound motor, matched to an optimised gearbox for efficient pulling power and smooth, controlled line speed.
Available in sizes 30QT to 50QT, with one-, two- and three-speed configurations in 12V or 24V versions.
E1 & E2+ ELECTRIC POWER KITS
All Orbit Winches™ size 30QT to 50QT can be easily converted to electric with an Electric Power Kit for either 12V or 24V systems. The Power Kit includes the Electric Motor unit, input/output cable from motor, illuminated push button(s), and a mounting deck plate. Marine grade circuit breakers are also available for protection and isolation.
Orbit Winch™ Products
