What are the rules of thumb in tensioning full length horizontal battens? Two years ago I bought a loose-footed main with full battens and it has performed well, but I am not sure that I have the battens tensioned properly in various wind conditions. Also, it seems to me that the upper one, for sure, and perhaps the second as well, are too stiff for light to moderate winds. Your advice is appreciated.
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my two cents
I'm not sure what you mean by stiff. I like tensioned, or tight, and eased, or loose. Increasing the tension will create more permanent curve or draft. You want some draft in the top of your sail, but not too much that the battens won't pop the other way when you change tacks. I keep the top two battens fairy tight to increase draft. I don't have full length lower battens, but if I did I would probably keep them somewhat loose so I could flatten the bottom third of the sail with the outhaul. Since the wind's velocity is greater up top than down low, its apparent direction will edge backwards the higher up you go. Keeping the top battens tensioned would set up a natural twist to compensated for this change.
I'm not sure what you mean by stiff. I like tensioned, or tight, and eased, or loose. Increasing the tension will create more permanent curve or draft. You want some draft in the top of your sail, but not too much that the battens won't pop the other way when you change tacks. I keep the top two battens fairy tight to increase draft. I don't have full length lower battens, but if I did I would probably keep them somewhat loose so I could flatten the bottom third of the sail with the outhaul. Since the wind's velocity is greater up top than down low, its apparent direction will edge backwards the higher up you go. Keeping the top battens tensioned would set up a natural twist to compensated for this change.
Bob, Battens are used in mainsails to support the roach of the sail. Full battens have the additional role of minimzing the flogging that can shorten the life of a sail. If the sail shape is designed correctly there is no need to induce any extra shape or camber by over-tensioning the battens. The general rule of thumb is to use just enough batten tension to eliminate any wrinkles along the line of the batten pocket. More tension than is necessary will actually hinder the sail's performance by causing localized distortion of the designed sail shape. Thanks, Bill C. Doyle Sails
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