Windsocks are used across aviation and many other industries. They are designed to display the wind direction and give a general indication of wind speed. Generally, they are used in all aviation settings: major airports, airfields, aerodromes, helipads, parachute centres, gliding and microlight clubs. Windsocks provide pilots with a quick visible reference to determine wind direction and identify potential crosswind hazards during landing. For commercial safety they are used in industrial locations such as oil and gas platforms, refineries, refrigeration plants, chemical storage facilities, power stations, water and sewage sites. They are an essential indicator of wind direction should potential hazardous substances escape. Other locations were they are used include sea ports, marinas, highways, firing ranges, composting sites, emergency services and rescue.
Windsock colour and size
Windsocks are most often made from polyester although can be made from nylon. They are usually orange though other colours and striped options are available. Deciding on the colour of your windsock really depends on its location -. as your windsock needs to contrast with its background so it is clearly visible. In the majority of locations orange is a suitable choice. Windsocks come in several sizes and the size is partly dependent on the industry and location where it is being used.
- Windsocks from 4ft to 8ft in length are used in light and commercial aviation, helicopter landing pads and industrial site safety. All conform to ICAO Annex 14 Vol II
- Windsocks that are 12ft and 14ft in length are used in commercial aviation such as international airports and may also be used in light commercial aviation. Both sizes conform to ICAO Annex 14 Vol I
For more information windsock specifications, please review our product data sheets here.
All these windsocks are from our standard range and can be ordered through our online shop here. For bespoke orders and other sizes please email the team or call 01245 23700 .
Windsock with harnesses fixing
Our windsocks come with a harness system which a stainless steel harness and are used to fix a windsock to the mast with a swivel arm system. The steel harness is better suited for harsh environment locations such as offshore and coastal areas. We recommend and supply swivel shackles fittings to fix your windsock to the mast. These are made of strong stainless steel and secure the windsock using a bolt and nylock. Assuming fitted correctly they are totally secure.
Windsocks with eyelets fixing
We also supply windsocks which are fitted with a single band of eyelets around mouth of the windsock (the large end) and secured with either durable cable ties or lacing cord. This type of fixing is used to attach the windsock to a mast with a swivel frame. The mouth of the windsock pulls over the frame (which holds part of the length of the windsock open). A windsock swivel frame usually comprises of a bearing housing with the framework to support the windsock attached to it. The frame consists of a large ring joined to a smaller ring with a distance between them of typically a quarter of the windsock length.
Windsock Masts
If you need a windsock mast or looking to renew an existing mast, we supply a range of masts for different industries and locations. To give you a better idea of which windsock mast you need visit our website. However if you still require advice to choose the correct mast please contact our team. We will be happy to discuss your requirements and recommend the correct mast.
Quality components
At Windsock Company we manufacture and supply premium windsocks and masts using tried and tested quality components. Therefore, we expect our windsocks and components to last as long as, or, longer than other manufacturers. Even so, we still suggest regular checks especially after long periods of extreme weather. This is to ensure your windsock is fully functional and fit for purpose. All our windsocks are manufactured in the UK and we supply across the whole of the UK and 55 international countries including UAE and Saudi Arabia.
If you have any questions about windsocks or masts, please contact us. Alternatively you can purchase our standard range from our online shop or alternatively get in touch with the Windsock team for bespoke orders.
