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Mast bend

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  • 21 Jul 2014 00:28
    Quote
    Reply # 3049306 on 3049188
    Anonymous member

    Hi Benjamin, the mast on my Etap 23i was made by Needlespar (Hawk). It measures 9.9m from heel to top and has been made from three aluminium tubes that fit into each other. 4.5" at the bottom, 4" about 2.5m above deck then the last 2m is a 3.5" tube. With the weight of my 19.5m2 (208ft2) AeroJunk rig the mast bends gracefully backwards.

    A perfectly rigid free-standing mast would have to be much heavier than the boat needs. Also a flexible mast absorbs gusts better than a rigid one. I would remove the rope and live with it.

    Paul
  • 20 Jul 2014 18:51
    Quote
    Message # 3049188
    Deleted user

    Hi All,

    I have a question regarding bend in the top third of the mast and the need for balancing with a forestay.

    I have been sailing a 22' Benford Knockabout junk-rigged sloop for the past year. When I purchased the boat, it came with a rope forestay, and I have yet to decommission it.

    I am in the process of replacing lines this summer and I am confused about the forestay. When I remove the forestay, there is a pronounced aft curve to the top of the mast ... due to the weight of the sail on the halyard.

    I have never been on another junk and I am not able to make a comparison, but my understanding was that junk sails could be (should be) unstayed. If that is the case, is the mast meant to be straight when under tension from the weight of the sail, and if not what is a reasonable bend?

    Any thoughts and advice would be most appreciated.

    Thanks so much,

    Ben Luna
    Orcas Island
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