wood vs aluminium masts - advantages?

[CharlesM]

Hello all

Could anyone give me a comparison of wooden masts vs aluminium masts?

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

One I can think of is wood aloft raises the center of gravity

cheers
Charles

 

[oldharry]

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One I can think of is wood aloft raises the center of gravity


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Not necessarily. A heavily sectioned metal mast with all its fittings can be as heavy as a tradiitionally set up hollow wooden mast.

The main advantage is that metal is virtually maintenance free, while wood must be carefully protected. Metal can on the other become fatigued - particularly light weight alloys, is subject to corrosion, and electrolytic problems if not carefully assembled, and is noisy if loose halyards start tapping. Metal masts are easily damaged, and difficult to repair: a dent or bend from mishandling may write it off.

Wood can be lighter, is less easily damaged by mishandling, and is quieter. It needs regular maintenance, and can rot, but pieces can be easily cut out and replaced using modern glues. Strength for strength a properly made wood mast is as strong as a metal one.

Finally, a good wooden mast will beat a metal one for looks any day!

But most of us use metal masts, as they are much less trouble to look after.