Martha’s new rudder is almost completed and I thought I would take some time to explain this process.
The rudder post and initial part of the blade are integral, RUDDER STOCK is the term used and it is a very ancient design.
The rest of the blade would be bolted on and would by nessicity be very wide at the trailing edge, which is not as clean or smooth a rudder shape as desired.
We chose a rudder shape which has a taller foil shape, which is more effeciant and has a fine trailing edge. In order to make this happen we had to find a way to strengthen and stabilize the trailing edge. I chose to use GRP, glass reinforced plastic or fiberglass to most. Once we started down this conceptual road, design folks with good sense stated that a full glass wrap from trailing edge, around the post and back to the trailing edge would be the best, from the strength and engineering stand point. In addition the GRP sheathing would offer a great barrier to wood boring pests and growth which in turn would lower maintenance costs, long term.
Brandon Smith of Turn Point Design took things a step further with the idea of infusing the rudder which is a process that yields a very strong and glass rich laminate. If half of these things are true, and I believe they are, than this is a good thing.
The enclosed video will demonstrate the infusion process. The background noise you hear are the vacuum pumps and the CNC machine.
If there are any questions regarding this process feel free to contact us at schoonermartha@yahoo.com.
