(ANACORTES, Wash.) — Cortland International has announced the official launch of its AeroLock synthetic connector.
After rigorous testing, including extensive in-field evaluations with industry leaders from the towing and freight sectors, AeroLock represents a significant advancement in connector technology. AeroLock has the ability to eliminate common risks associated with traditional steel shackles and knotted synthetic connectors, making it a game-changer for high-risk industries like commercial marine towing, offshore operations and heavy lifting.
Cortland’s AeroLock is a high-performance synthetic rope solution made from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The connector features an innovative alloy pin design that ensures a more secure and reliable connection. Its abrasion-resistant jacket is engineered to withstand harsh environments, while maintaining working load limits of up to 176,400 pounds and breaking strengths exceeding 880,000 pounds.
“AeroLock has undergone extensive testing under real-world conditions and the feedback from industry professionals has been nothing short of outstanding,” said Stuart Janke, CEO of Cortland International. “From our initial design phase, we knew safety and operational efficiency would be our top priorities. The success of AeroLock is a testament to the hard work of our engineering team and the trust we’ve earned from our customers.”
One of the standout features of the AeroLock is its ability to reduce the risk of catastrophic accidents typically caused by steel shackles or knotted connectors failing under load. Unlike traditional steel options, AeroLock can mitigate the risk of recoil injuries, a critical safety consideration in heavy towing operations.
“We’ve been using AeroLock in demanding environments, including towing fully loaded barges in northern Alaska, and it’s exceeded all expectations,” said Capt. Mike LeDrew, a representative from Foss Maritime. “AeroLock replaced three steel shackles in our tow bridle, providing greater reliability and ease of use.”
Lighter than both steel and knotted connectors, the AeroLock allows for faster rigging without the need for tools, significantly reducing operating costs and downtime. When paired with Cortland’s Toro or Plasma towing lines, there is no de-rating of the towlines as the proper bending diameters are maintained, ensuring optimal performance.
– Cortland International
