Materials & technology
The right process for every part
We don't pick a material at random. A hatch handle is a good fit for 3D printing; a rudder bearing calls for CNC machining in a technical material; a structural part may call for composite. Here are the processes and materials we use, and why.
3D printing
Our default process for deck hardware and small cockpit parts: complex geometries, short runs, controlled cost.
ASA
Our reference material for parts exposed to sun and salt. It's the outdoor-grade version of an ABS-family thermoplastic: it resists UV without yellowing or becoming brittle over time, with a good balance of stiffness and impact resistance.
ASA-CF
ASA reinforced with short carbon fibres: stiffer and more dimensionally stable when printed than ASA alone. Used when a part needs to hold a precise geometry, for example a mounting interface.
PETG
More flexible than ASA, good impact and moisture resistance, easier to print on complex geometries. Used as a second choice or on parts less directly exposed to UV.
PA / PA-CF (nylon)
A technical material more resistant to fatigue and repeated friction wear. Reserved for parts under frequent cycling (handles, hinges).
CNC machining
For mechanical parts under load or with a safety role, where plastic printing isn't the right process: rudder bearings, tiller heads, pins.
Marine stainless steel (e.g. 316L)
Corrosion-resistant in a saltwater environment, the reference material for fasteners and structural parts exposed to seawater.
Bronze
Good wear and corrosion resistance, historically used for rudder bearings and bushings on production sailboats.
Aluminium
Light, good strength-to-weight ratio, for structural parts not directly exposed to galvanic corrosion risk with stainless steel.
PEEK
A high-performance technical polymer, resistant to fatigue and friction. Used for bearings or bushings when metal isn't necessary.
Composite
For structural or larger parts, where the stiffness-to-weight ratio matters more than on a small piece of deck hardware.
Carbon fibre / epoxy
The best stiffness-to-weight ratio among our composite materials, for structural parts where every gram counts.
Flax fibre / epoxy
A natural fibre with a lower environmental footprint than carbon, with good vibration-damping properties. Used when pure stiffness isn't the top priority and a bio-based material makes sense.
Got a part to have made?
We choose the process and material suited to its function before sending you a quote.
Request a quote