Designed and constructed by Bristol Steel Boats

Design ratified by Anthony Head (Ahead Yacht Surveys) and Mike Munson (Plymouth University Marine  Unit) for MCA.

 

Length on deck  - 14.98 metres

Beam - 4.4 metres

Max Draught - 2.0 metres

Displacement light - 28 tons

Sail Area - plain sail - 1600 sq ft, maximum 1900 sq ft with squaresail hoisted

 

The hull was constructed  in grade 43A (mild) steel, shot blasted and epoxy primed to site with a method  similar in fashion to a wooden boat.  The centreline structure first being erected and followed by temporary station frames.   As can be seen in the photographs the temporary frames are constructed of 100mm by 75mm rolled steel angle in chine fashion, 18mm ply being used to supply the hull form.  Cutting into or packing from the ply edge allows adjustment for fairing when installing the teebar framing   The permanent horizontal tee bar framing is  lined off at a maximum of 300mm centres, the tee bars being installed full length, worked port and starboard to keep the stresses balanced. When lining and fairing of the teebars is completed the tee bars are welded to the steel framing with tee bar stubs This creates a strong jig against which the plating can be sprung clamped and welded 

The 5mm bottom hull plating is then templated, cold cut (nibbler) and tack welded in place, working systematically port and starboard.  The 4no. 100% bulkheads were then installed, along with the plate structural floors at 1m centres throughout the boat.  The 4mm top side plating was installed vertically, based on approximate widths around 600mm.  These were slightly under rolled to the curves required then tack welded and clamped, starting at the bottom and pulling into the sheer.  The hull was then fully welded on the outside, followed by the inside.  The 316 stainless steel deck landing flat and individual beam sockets were then welded to suit.  This completed the hull. It was then airless sprayed inside and out with 400microns of Jotamastic 87.

 

This method of construction provides for a perfectly fair hull. Only the weld stripes requiring  epoxy filler    

 

All tanks were then individually made and bolted in along with the engine bearers, mast steps and steel watertight doors.

 

The deck and coachroof structure was then constructed in a proper traditonal manner with Douglas Fir beams, the deck being laid in ex 4"x2" Opepe. The stainless steel deck beam sockets replacing the traditional beam clamp.

 

The rig utilises pine spars from Finland, max diameter 275mm.  All rigging is 12mm flexible wire with traditional deadeyes and lanyards.  Modern sails of Dacron complete the picture.

 

For further information on this vessel or the construction method please email

 

 

 Station Frames awaiting erection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Deck & Coachroof