Kevel vs. Cleat — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 16, 2024
A kevel is a type of deck fitting on ships used for securing ropes, while a cleat is a device for securing anything that can be tied down, commonly used both onshore and offshore.
Difference Between Kevel and Cleat
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Kevels are specifically designed for nautical purposes, generally found on the decks of boats and ships to secure lines during mooring or towing operations. Cleats, on the other hand, are used in a wider variety of settings including boating, sports, and even in general construction for tying down ropes and cables.
The design of a kevel typically features a large, robust wooden or metal T-shaped bar, offering a sturdy fixture for heavy maritime use. Cleats are more commonly designed as metal or plastic fixtures with a horned shape to easily wrap ropes around in a secure fashion.
Kevels are crucial for handling heavier loads and are built to withstand the harsh marine environment, being larger and often integrated into the ship's structure. Cleats, whereas, range in size and strength and are more versatile, found not only on boats but also on docks, trailers, and even sports fields.
The usage of kevels is predominantly seen in commercial shipping and large vessels where high durability and load capacity are required. Cleats are universally recognized and used by both professionals and amateurs in various activities, from securing small boats to organizing cables in a garage.
Installation of kevels is usually a part of the shipbuilding process, requiring professional handling and placement. Installation of cleats is generally simpler and can often be a do-it-yourself task, depending on the application and load requirements.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Use
Securing ropes on ships.
Securing ropes and lines in various settings.
Design
T-shaped, robust, made of wood or metal.
Horn-shaped, available in metal or plastic.
Load Handling
Heavy loads, built for durability.
Varied loads, more versatile.
Common Environments
Maritime, particularly on large vessels.
Maritime, sports, construction, home use.
Installation
Integrated into ship structure, professional.
Often DIY, varies with application.
Compare with Definitions
Kevel
Used primarily in commercial maritime settings.
The shipping crew used the kevels to fasten the cargo ropes securely.
Cleat
Used in diverse environments, from boats to sports fields.
The runner used the track's starting cleats to position himself at the start line.
Kevel
A robust fitting on ships used to secure mooring lines.
The captain ensured the mooring line was securely tied to the kevel.
Cleat
Available in materials like metal or plastic, depending on use.
The plastic cleats on the deck were perfect for light-duty tasks.
Kevel
T-shaped design for effective securing of heavy loads.
The T-shaped kevel provided a reliable anchor point for the towline.
Cleat
A device for securing ropes across various applications.
He tied the boat to the dock using the cleat.
Kevel
Typically made of heavy-duty materials like wood or metal.
The sturdy wooden kevels on the old ship showed signs of wear but held strong.
Cleat
Characteristically horn-shaped for easy rope securing.
The horn-shaped cleats were ideal for quick tie-offs.
Kevel
Integral to the ship's deck layout and safety.
During inspections, the condition of kevels was carefully evaluated for safety compliance.
Cleat
Often installed by users and can be found in many settings.
He installed several new cleats in his garage to organize the climbing ropes.
Kevel
A sturdy cleat for securing a line, as in mooring a ship.
Cleat
A strip of wood or iron used to strengthen or support the surface to which it is attached.
Kevel
(nautical) A strong cleat to which large ropes are belayed.
Cleat
A projecting piece of metal or hard rubber attached to the underside of a shoe to provide traction.
Kevel
A stonemason's hammer.
Cleat
Cleats A pair of shoes with such projections on the soles.
Kevel
Alternative form of cavel
Cleat
A piece of metal or wood having projecting arms or ends on which a rope can be wound or secured.
Kevel
A strong cleat to which large ropes are belayed.
Cleat
Any of various other fittings by means of which a rope can be secured.
Kevel
A stone mason's hammer.
Cleat
A wedge-shaped piece of material, such as wood, that is fastened onto something, such as a spar, to act as a support or prevent slippage.
Kevel
The gazelle.
Cleat
A spurlike device used in gripping a tree or pole in climbing.
Cleat
To supply, support, secure, or strengthen with a cleat.
Cleat
A strip of wood or iron fastened on transversely to something in order to give strength, prevent warping, hold position, etc.
Cleat
A continuous metal strip, or angled piece, used to secure metal components.
Cleat
(nautical) A device to quickly affix a line or rope, and from which it is also easy to release. Nautical cleat
Cleat
A protrusion on the bottom of a shoe or wheel meant for better traction.
Cleat
An athletic shoe equipped with cleats.
Cleat
To strengthen with a cleat.
Cleat
(nautical) To tie off, affix, stopper a line or rope, especially to a cleat.
Cleat
A strip of wood or iron fastened on transversely to something in order to give strength, prevent warping, hold position, etc.
Cleat
A device made of wood or metal, having two arms, around which turns may be taken with a line or rope so as to hold securely and yet be readily released. It is bolted by the middle to a deck or mast, etc., or it may be lashed to a rope.
Cleat
To strengthen with a cleat.
Cleat
A metal or leather projection (as from the sole of a shoe); prevents slipping
Cleat
A fastener (usually with two projecting horns) around which a rope can be secured
Cleat
A strip of wood or metal used to strengthen the surface to which it is attached
Cleat
Provide with cleats;
Cleat running shoes for better traction
Cleat
Secure on a cleat;
Cleat a line
Common Curiosities
How does the design of a kevel or cleat affect its function?
The T-shape of a kevel offers durability and is suited for heavy loads, while the horned design of a cleat provides versatility and ease of use.
What is the main functional difference between a kevel and a cleat?
A kevel is specifically for maritime use on ships, designed for heavy-duty securing, whereas a cleat is versatile, used in various environments for securing ropes.
Can cleats be used on ships as well as kevels?
Yes, cleats are commonly used on smaller boats and yachts, while kevels are preferred for larger vessels and heavy loads.
Are kevels replaceable or fixed installations?
Kevels are generally fixed installations, integral to the ship's structure, and not meant to be easily replaced.
What is the importance of material choice in the effectiveness of kevels and cleats?
Material choice impacts durability and suitability for specific environments, such as resistance to marine conditions for kevels or versatile lighter use for cleats.
What are the common failures of kevels and cleats?
Common failures include material fatigue, improper installation, and using undersized or poorly designed fittings for the load.
Where would I most likely find a kevel being used?
On commercial ships and larger maritime vessels, particularly in areas designed for mooring and towing.
How do cleats support activities outside of boating?
Cleats are used in sports for securing equipment, in construction for holding materials, and even in homes for organizing ropes and cables.
How do environmental conditions affect the longevity of kevels and cleats?
Environmental conditions such as moisture, saltwater, and temperature fluctuations can degrade materials over time, impacting longevity and safety.
What types of materials are used for cleats and kevels?
Kevels are typically made from robust materials like wood or metal, while cleats can be made from metal, plastic, or even composite materials.
Can I install a cleat by myself?
Yes, cleats often come with instructions for DIY installation and can be mounted in a variety of settings, from docks to home garages.
Is there a size variation in kevels and cleats?
Yes, both kevels and cleats vary in size depending on their intended load and usage environment.
What maintenance is required for kevels and cleats?
Regular inspections, cleaning from debris, and checks for corrosion and wear are necessary for maintaining safety and functionality.
How do safety standards apply to kevels and cleats?
Safety standards ensure that kevels and cleats can withstand the loads and conditions they are designed for, preventing failures during use.
Can the design of a cleat affect its ease of use?
Yes, the design, particularly the horn shape, influences how easily ropes can be secured and released, affecting overall ease of use.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
