Nominal Spar Wall Thickness

[Brian D]

I know it depends on a lot of variables to include spar height, but does anyone know the nominal wall thickness of an aluminum mast? The estimated height of my mast is 34'. I do not have any other dimensions but just trying to get a nominal wall thickness. My uneducated guess would be about 3/16".

Thoughts?

 

[sail sfbay]

...............it depends on a lot of variables to include spar height, but does anyone know the nominal wall thickness of an aluminum mast?..............

You are correct mast thickness depends on many variables. For example, take a look at Rigrite's mast thickness dimension tables in the link below as you might be surprised at the thickness depending on mast type (e.g., traditional, mid-ocean racing class, high performance, cruising, in-mast furler), shape and outside dimensions.

Kenyon Spars Main Page

 

[Terry Cox]

Hi Brian, our boat came with an Isomat spar with the wall thickness detailed for the various sizes here. Isomat Main Page

 

[Brian D]

Thanks for the links. I looked and could not find any info on wall thickness, but I guess I was not asking Google the right questions.

 

[JamesG161]

It really depends on the spot on your mast and the reason for wanting to know.
The base is much thicker bow side.
Jim...

 

[sail sfbay]

Brian, left click on Isomat Mast Sections and you will get the table below.

 

[JamesG161]

Lancer 27 PS Sailboats

Maybe someone here knows.

But you can drill and tap it to get the thickness with a self-taping screw.
Jim...

 

[Brian D]

Well Jim, I plan on replacing the steaming light. It is about half way up the mast. There are multiple holes where it was moved or the screw broke and was never taken out.

So I am going to drill out the old screws and fill with aluminum putty. Going to also fill in all the other holes around that light. Didn't want to push too much putty in the hole because it might damage an internal halyard. I don't think it will but don't want to take a chance. I will knead the putty and flatten it out to about 3/16" and then push it in with even pressure. Then remove any excess on the outside.

That is why I was asking about the mast wall thickness. Yeah, I can measure it when I get up there, but just preparing mentally ahead of time.

 

[JamesG161]

ok guess what I had to do...
Steaming/Deck Light Combo

I used was going to use short self tappers to make sure the tips had no interference.
Jim...

 

[JamesG161]

By the way..
@Brian D the fore part of your mast should have a cable conduit or the like, in that area.

 

[JamesG161]

My last point...
Stainless self tappers in an Aluminum mast will not set up galvanic corrosion, if they are sealed from water.

Aluminum putty is ok, but well beyond any potential corrosion.

You can use Anti-oxidation grease on the threads too.
Jim...