Hi all,

I would have to agree that the present tip weight is probably to high for carbon masts, after modifying a A class mast by gluing timber inside to strengthen the mast and increase weight. It was surprising how much needed to be added to get it near current weight and at this stage I still don't know if it is strong enough. So the current tip weight rule is questionable in it's ability to make masts strong as it doesn't preclude adding weight to a mast without strength.

Ultimately without making the rules more complex we realy can only rely on the sailors/makers of masts to make them strong enough to avoid breakages so they finish races. As to ensure increased weight of a mast leads to strength you realy need a balance test along with a mast weight. To complex for what F16 wants, leave this sort of rules for one design dinghies.

It may even be possible to do away with the tip weight and just have a total mast weight, although as this is no easier to measure we might stick with what we have. Either way I believe we should include in the rule that no correctors are allowed as this defeats the purpose of having the weight rule, being strength. Of course how to include this is is open to debate.

What is the tip weight of a carbon stealth mast?
From what I understand it is the only carbon mast currently being used on F16 in any numbers and I assume it is surviving. Surely it should be used as an example in this discussion.

In conclusion I would agree with the idea of reducing the tip weight but how far I am not sure, Wouters suggestion puts it alot lighter than alloy super wing, which would give the perception of a large advantage although I agree with him that it is not that great in reality. I have always used alloy masts on my sailboards and kept up with the carbon mast guy's. The gust response etc. is a very small percentage improvement.

I do think we should include in the weight rule.
That the mast is not allowed weight correctors. All materials included in the mast should be structual and be permanently fixed eg. glued or welded.

Looking forward to more discussion, we all love /hate rules.

Regards Gary.