3D Printed Roller Furling Systems
Introduction
Roller furling systems have long been a cornerstone of modern sailing, enabling sailors to reef and deploy headsails with efficiency and safety.
Traditionally, available systems have relied on either Aluminum, Resin and PVC foils with complex drum assemblies to handle the loads and stress.
3DFurler.com has pioneered the world’s first commercially 3D printed roller furling system, offering a lightweight, durable, and innovative alternative to conventional designs.
Co-Polymer vs. PVC vs. Resin vs. Metal Foils
3D Furler Co-Polymer Foils: Made from advanced co-polymers, our foils are significantly lighter and immune to nicks and denting. Their modular 12-inch segments allow for easier installation and improved resilience. No risk of damage of spoiling.
Drum Design Innovations
Traditional Drums: Most conventional Roller Furling systems use raceways with bearings. Bearings must be maintained, lubricated and free of minerals and salts from water. A seized and broken drum is dangerous. Conventional drums must be mounted with the mast down or require mast-top work to affix tangs to the forestay.
3D Furler Drum: Features a clamp-on design in two sections, mounted around the forestay. The foils are inserted into the Drum to ensure that they rotate with the Drum.
The drum rests on the swage shoulder of the turnbuckle stud, using the stud shaft as an axle to stabilize and gravity to prevent wobble. This eliminates the chance for seizing as well as dangerous mast-top climbing.
Our "Open Drum" offers clear visibility and access to the control line. Our angle line ports keep the line in its trajectory.
3D Manufacturing Versatility
3D Printing represents a significant double leap forward in manufacturing.
Making 3D prototypes for production is nothing new, but bypassing the need for extrusion in large batches for aluminum and resin allows us to make engineering and manufacturing innovation POWERFUL.
Add to this the stability of a global network of professionals manufacturing the products, we avoid the older method of "factory" production and costly shipping charges.
Regardless of where you live, we make your Roller Furler Locally.
If you have questions about our products, call us at 904-600-4105