06/10/2026
TRUDESIGN SEACOCKS
Having the right information can save you a significant amount of money. Having the right experience or knowing the right suppliers and specialists, can save you even more.
In this series, we will take a closer look at key components for long-range yachts and vessels designed to be lived aboard permanently or for extended periods. We will regularly highlight products that, in our experience, can make a real difference in safety, reliability and long-term operating costs.
Today: Seacocks.
Every vessel needs seacocks to control the flow of water through the hull from outside to inside and vice versa. They are used for engine and generator cooling, watermakers, heat exchangers, air-conditioning systems, grey-water and sewage systems, as well as many other onboard applications.
For decades, high-quality bronze and specialist-alloy valves were the industry standard. Properly manufactured, these products can last for decades. However, in series yacht construction, cost and space constraints have increasingly led to smaller and less expensive metal valves.
The problem? Metal valves are vulnerable to corrosion and galvanic processes, including dezincification. Over time, this can significantly weaken the material and turn a seemingly minor component into a serious safety concern. Frost can also cause severe damage when a vessel remains in the water during winter.
This is why we have been using TruDesign for many years.
The New Zealand manufacturer produces seacocks and skin fittings from glass-fibre-reinforced nylon composite. The result is high mechanical strength at low weight, combined with resistance to corrosion and electrolysis.
Depending on the model, TruDesign valves are designed for applications both above and below the waterline and are certified to international standards, including ISO 9093:2021, IMCI and Bureau Veritas.
Another advantage is serviceability: the ball and seals are designed for smooth, reliable operation, while individual components can be replaced rather than necessarily requiring the complete valve to be discarded.
TruDesign also offers monitored ball valves, allowing the valve position to be remotely monitored and, in certain applications, integrated into engine or generator start interlock systems.
There is one point to consider: composite valves can require slightly more installation space than very compact metal alternatives. This needs to be taken into account during the design phase.
Our recommendation when purchasing or refitting a yacht:
Do not cut costs on seacocks. Quality components are an investment in safety, reliability and, ultimately, lower maintenance and replacement costs.
In our upcoming posts, we will look at further components that matter on long-range and liveaboard vessels.
More information:
https://tomlogisch.com