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Pricing has been set for the one piece 16′ Skiff masts.
Two masts are currently being fully rigged.
We can currently supply four fully rigged masts per week.
Please contact us for pricing.
Pricing has been set for the one piece 16′ Skiff masts.
Two masts are currently being fully rigged.
We can currently supply four fully rigged masts per week.
Please contact us for pricing.
The first part of the process is to come up with an overall rig layout within the rules. This will assist determining the overall mandrel geometry.
Choosing a one piece mast with no sleeving means that specific patching will be incorporated into the laminate for high load areas, reducing hard points and stress raisers.
Pattern design
We then generate a stiffness profile to suit the mandrel geoetry and mast layout.
Pattern design, optimises the laminate thickness vs stiffness vs toughness.
Patterns go direct from engineering to production floor winding machines, minimising human error.
FEA
With FEA models built to replicate the laminate schedule, a number of “What if” scenerios can be run to determine various bend profiles.
This provides sailmakers and sailors with an option to choose their preferred stiffness as well as bend characteristics.
Model Vs Actual
Final step in the first article is to confirm actual results vs modelling.
With over 25,000 tubes made, the model predicts the bends within +-1%
Quality control reports show that the bend profiles of all masts are repeatable within +-2%
Rigged mast will be in the boat next week !
Design and build mandrel
One piece mast was chosen to increase stiffness (for a given weight) as well as create an even bend curve (no flat spots). Over the last two weeks the mandrel was designed and manufactured in house, using SolidWorks and our CNC lathes.
Material selection
Quality performance Japanese fibre used to produce 16′ skiff masts. Using our Instron testing machine, fibre coupon testing is performed to validate carbon suppliers data and quality. There is often a large variation between carbon fibre suppliers.
Quality Control
All tubes and masts produced run through the CST MES (Manufacturing Execution System), this monitors all aspects of production to guarantee quality supply.
Bend testing is completed to confirm actual results vs modelling
After working in conjunction with 16 sailors for many years, CST developed a range of standard modulus carbon fibre sections, the latest iteration being the 16 boom.
To take full advantage of the increased stiffness offered by a larger profile, the production mandrels have been optimised within the 16′s regulations, with a top-bottom dimension of 130mm.
The new rectangular sections are incredibly stiff and light as we predict will be required for future mast developments. The 18ft skiff and I14 classes have gone down this path of stiffer masts and in all likelihood the 16s will as well – so the CST boom is ahead of the times and more than capable of coping with changes to the mast, meaning part longevity and no need for continuous upgrades.
Standard poles are available in 44 OD, with an adaptor kit available for boats with 50mm ID receiving tubes.
Both the booms and poles are currently in stock and available for immediate shipment.
