Introducing the Profurl NEX 6.X Top Down Furler – When less is more

by Wichard Pacific on 13 Jul 2017 Less is more is what the Profurl designers had in mind when they developed the new range of NEX top down curlers. Wichard Pacific showcased the new NEX6.X top down furler at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show and thought this would be an opportune time to provide more detail.

The goal was to come up with a highly reliable furler which would be as light as possible as well as maintenance free, so for the NEX6.X, Profurl opted for the use of Ceramic Bearing Technology. Ceramic bearings were first used in the aerospace industry. Held in casings, the Ceramic (silicon nitride) balls are low density although extremely hard. They will not lose their shape even under the heaviest loads, resulting in less friction and a greater lifespan.

Because of these revolutionary components and their remarkable resistance to corrosion, Profurl was able to design open systems which contain no grease nor seals and the textile fastening is now anchored to the inner mechanism of the assembly.

The overall result is a compact, light (up to 30% lighter!) NEX furler with 30% less friction. The 6T version now has an integrated top down adaptor, and also has the option of replacing the classic top swivel by a swivel hook . Not only did Banque Populaire VIII win the Vendee Globe using the NEX Hybrid technology, the Imoca St Michel Vibrac finished fourth with a NEX Hybrid on board, not to mention the Jules Verne record was broken on IDEC also using CBT.

For more information go to www.wichard.com.au.