Hollow Box Boom

The sail rig for the Goat Island Skiff is undergoing further development and improvement (well, that is what we're all hoping for...). The discussion of this can be found at:

GIS Spars

While others are experimenting with different sized solid yards and booms, Mik wondered about how a hollow box boom would work. I asked Mik for dimensions and volunteered to make a hollow box boom. This is a side project to do while waiting for epoxy to cure (or be delivered!) and is not a diversion away from the Goat itself.

The basic design for the boom:

• Overall Dimensions: 45mm wide, 70mm deep, 3660mm long
• Four pieces
  • 2 6mm Plywood Sides
  • 2 12mmx33mm Top and Bottom Timbers
• Tapered in profile to 45mm x 45mm at each end
• Corners radiused to match the plywood

Butt strap joins will be used on the plywood to obtain the 3660mm length. The top and bottom timbers will be scarfed.

I cut the plywood pieces today and laid out the cut lines for the timbers. I will cut the timbers and make the scarf cuts early this week. Once the epoxy supply is replenished I will glue the four pieces together and assemble the boom.

Being involved with the development of the rig is pretty exciting!