 A rigging status inspection procedure has been developed by ECB Nederland bv, in order to assess the actual status of existing rigging. The inspection procedure includes visual inspection of all the relevant parts such as the mast, boom, spreaders, standing rigging, chain plates, turn buckles and terminals etc.
The inspection criteria are: material reduction, distortion, breakage, tears and cracks. When indications have been detected visually, further non destructive examination, like Dye Penetrant Examination (DPE) is being conducted.
The inspection results are reported extensively, including digital photoís of all the non acceptable indications. During an inspection of the rigging of a First 465, advanced computer software (FEA) was used to research the structural strength of the tie-rods below decks, attached to the chain plates. This software provides good insight in the various tensions and stresses and makes a better strength performance prediction possible.
The ECB Safe Rig Certificate is issued when all the reported non acceptable indications have been repaired. The inspection and certification procedure offers independent support to Yacht owners, Yacht Service Companies and Insurance companies.
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