How long does Dyneema standing rigging last?

[david samuelson]

Hi,

I am in the tropics and considering putting dyneema standing rigging on a boat. How long until I have to change it, chafe aside?
Thanks, David

[roverhi]

Believe Colligo says 6 years for the Dyneema Dux though the rep I talked to said it would probably last much longer. Apparently the fibers exposed to the sun protect those in the interior of the line. Nice thing about Dyneema rigging is that once you buy all the fittings, it's relatively cheap to buy just the line and splice when it's time to replace.

There's a catamaran just down from my boat that has Dyneema shrouds. Don't know how long it's been in service but definitely more than 3 years and still looks new.

[Delancey]

I have a friend with dyneema lifelines that are ten years old. Minimal chaffe, still look good and the boat sees a lot of use. That said, ten years is getting on for plastic in the sun. Might be time soon to swap them out.