RAN Sailing · video

What this video covers

Reinforcing a critical shroud bulkhead on a 50-foot custom sailboat requires creating a stiff, high-peel-strength connection to the hull to manage vertical rig loads. To prevent the bulkhead from lifting or delaminating under tension, the builders construct large-radius, 150-millimeter fillets that transition the load into the hull laminate. Because the hull-to-bulkhead angle varies, the builders fabricate custom Sapele wood wedges to maintain the required radius and prevent exothermic runaway from excessive epoxy volume. The tabbing process involves applying unidirectional carbon fiber to handle primary loads, followed by a layer of biaxial glass to manage off-axis forces and protect the carbon. Proper surface preparation, including sanding and cleaning with solvent, remains essential for bond quality. The builders prioritize structural integrity over weight savings, aiming for a connection that exceeds the breaking strength of the rigging to ensure long-term durability through millions of load cycles.

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