Description
Ronstan Series 40 Ball Bearing Orbit Block | Boat Supply Store
For sailors demanding peak efficiency on dinghies and small keelboats, this block mitigates friction and elevates load capacity significantly. Its 2-stage orbital ball bearing system ensures ultra-low friction, while the construction utilizes toughened, glass fibre reinforced Nylon cheeks for robust durability. Ideal for mainsail and spinnaker sheets on vessels up to 5 meters (16 feet), or halyard, vang, and backstay applications on boats up to 8 meters (26 feet).
Key Features
- Ultra Lightweight construction for reduced vessel weight and improved handling
- Low Friction achieved via a precision 2-stage Orbital ball bearing system
- Highest Working Load in its class, providing exceptional performance under strain
- Low Profile and Compact design minimizes deck clutter and aerodynamic drag
- High Performance Cleating ensures secure line management under load
- Through-Sheave Becket arrangement for efficient load distribution and system integration
- Computer Modeled Stress-Optimized Design guarantees structural integrity and longevity
- Carbon Fiber Reinforced Sheave with PTFE impregnation for superior wear resistance and smooth operation
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Ronstan |
| Series | Series 40 |
| Type | Single Block |
| Features | Ball Bearing, Becket, Cleat, Swivel Head |
| Bearing System | 2-stage Orbital Ball Bearing |
| Cheek Material | Toughened, glass fibre reinforced Nylon |
| Sheave Material | Carbon fiber reinforced, PTFE impregnated Nylon |
| Bearing Material | High compression strength carbon black Acetal ball bearings |
| Working Load Limit | 1500 kg (3300 lbs) |
| Recommended Line Diameter | Up to 12mm |
| Sheave Diameter | 40mm |
Who This Is For
This block is engineered for competitive sailors of dinghies, sportsboats, and small keel boats up to 5m (16ft) requiring high-performance sheets. It also serves as a critical component for halyard, vang, and backstay systems on boats up to 8m (26ft), and for control lines on larger yachts.
How It Compares
| Feature | Ronstan Series 40 Ball Bearing Orbit Block | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Working Load Limit | 1500 kg (3300 lbs) | — |
| Weight (per kg of working load) | World's lightest | Not specified as lightest; Not specified as lightest |
| Bearing System | 2-stage Orbital Ball Bearing | Carbo Ratchomatic; Synchro |
| Sheave Diameter | 40mm | — |
| Max Line Diameter | 12mm | — |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the initial cost of this block prohibitive?
While the upfront investment may exceed that of basic block options, the Ronstan Series 40 Orbit Block offers unparalleled long-term value through its superior performance, exceptional durability, and significant weight savings, making it a justifiable expense for serious sailors.
Will I be able to find the specific configuration I need?
Ronstan is a leading manufacturer with extensive product lines. Specific configurations are generally available, but checking current stock for unique requirements is recommended to ensure immediate project completion.
Are there concerns about the long-term durability given its lightweight design?
Customer sentiment consistently praises Ronstan's commitment to high-quality, durable marine hardware. The Series 40 Orbit Block leverages advanced materials like carbon fiber reinforced Nylon and Acetal bearings, ensuring robust performance and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the working load limit for the Ronstan Series 40 Ball Bearing Orbit Block?
The working load limit for this block is 1500 kg (3300 lbs), providing substantial capacity for demanding applications.
What makes the Ronstan Series 40 Orbit Block lightweight?
Its exceptional lightness per kilogram of working load is due to its unique orbital bearing design and efficient construction, utilizing advanced materials like toughened glass fibre reinforced Nylon and carbon fiber reinforced Nylon.
What types of sailing applications is this block suitable for?
It is ideal for mainsail and spinnaker sheets on dinghies up to 5m (16ft), and for halyard, vang, and backstay applications on boats up to 8m (26ft), as well as control lines on larger yachts.
What materials are used in the construction of the Ronstan Series 40 Orbit Block?
The block features toughened, glass fibre reinforced Nylon cheeks, a carbon fiber reinforced, PTFE impregnated Nylon sheave, and high compression strength carbon black Acetal ball bearings.
How does the Ronstan Series 40 Orbit Block compare to competitors in terms of weight and load capacity?
Compared to competitors like Harken and Lewmar, the Ronstan Series 40 Orbit Block offers a significantly higher working load limit (1500 kg vs. 500-1000 kg) and is recognized as the world's lightest per kilogram of working load, while maintaining a competitive price point.
