IMOCA strut

[zoidberg]

I'm interested in the use of the strut/spar shown, on Pip Hare's IMOCA 60', which seems to hold the Code 0 sheet out to increase the sheeting angle.
What's the strut called.... and might there be a role for this in lesser boats?

 

[flaming]

I'm interested in the use of the strut/spar shown, on Pip Hare's IMOCA 60', which seems to hold the Code 0 sheet out to increase the sheeting angle.
What's the strut called.... and might there be a role for this in lesser boats?

It's called a reaching strut or outrigger. As to whether or not there is a role depends on whether or not you are racing, and if you are what system you are racing under. If you are racing under IRC then currently a strut such as pictured is not legal. Any pole putting an outward pressure on a sheet or guy has to be fixed to the mast. This does mainly limit the use of such poles to increasing the slot angle when jib reaching under IRC.
For example

Some classes are allowing them, for example the new Dehler 30OD.

The benefits seem to be 2 fold. Firstly when reaching they allow the sheeting angle of the code type sail to be opened up a bit, which cleans the airflow and permits a staysail to be flown inside. Then when running in stronger breeze they allow the code sail to be set with a wider sheeting angle, which helps VMG when it's too windy for the Asail.

 

[zoidberg]

That's helpful, thanks. I have a double-ended pole of perhaps the right size, and I may try to utilise it in this way.

Here's a pic of a Dehler30 sporting a demountable furling staysail. Interesting....

 

[Tomahawk]

We have IMOCA to thank for these innovations.
Perhaps one day people will stop hankering back to old heavy slow designs and embrace new ideas.

 

[Buck Turgidson]

I need one of them for my asymmetric spinnaker. The back end of my old heavy slow Twister is too narrow. I can get 1/2 kt more by holding the sheet out with my arm, but not for very long ;-)

 

[scottie]

I do recall similar poles being used some half century ago
In fact so long ago I can’t recall what they were called

 

[zoidberg]

I do recall similar poles being used some half century ago - In fact so long ago I can’t recall what they were called

'Whiskers'.... on kittens ...... bright copper kettles and warm Kevlar mittens...

 

[LONG_KEELER]

We have IMOCA to thank for these innovations.
Perhaps one day people will stop hankering back to old heavy slow designs and embrace new ideas.

I've ordered the AC 75 cruising version. Non grinder, optional boom tent plus 10 free lessons.