RAN Sailingvideo
Tabbing the Most Critical Bulkhead on the Boat - Ep. 445 RAN Sailing
June 13, 2025 · 30 min · 111K views
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.
More from RAN Sailing
From RAN Sailing — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.