880 Construction Update 2: Beams and Structures
The beams of the 880 (or any folding trimaran) are under extremely high loads. Quite often, under loaded conditions the load on the beams will be 3 – 5x the total boat weight. On the 880 the calculated max load on the beams is around 9,000kg. During the early design stages of the Corsair 880, composite strut attachments were investigated in line with our initial intention to move in this direction. Extensive weight analysis identified little to no weight gains by using composite attachments. Furthermore, the methods typically used for a composite attachment points actually hindered the folding geometry. Finally, given the results of our design testing, and our long and reliable history using aluminium bracket attachments, we have now identified the way forward is the aluminium brackets. Read more on the Design and development of the crucially-important beams in our Design Update #2.
Structural advancements
To manage and transfer the loads encountered when flying hulls, or even just in regular sailing conditions the beams have been designed with a centrally infused stringer. Using a technology developed for the rear targa arch of the Seawind Catamarans 1190 Sport model, this stringer is infused in one event as part of the infusion process of the upper and lower shells, to great effect in strength, weight, and durability. This advancement for the Corsair 880 is another case of transferring valuable technologies and know-how across brands, within the company.
Read 880 Construction Update 1
With planking being added to the framework the 880 hull plug begins to take shape. The below images are really the first full size impressions of the hull and begin to show off some of her style ques, such as her slick reverse bows and chine lines. No details on folding or attachments yet, still a few more steps before we get to that stage.
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