A major part of Duracell's modifications
In Duracell's refit, the construction of the bowsprit, begun in previous episodes, is an important step. Both because it repairs the damage sustained when the boat collided with a freighter, leaving her permanently stuck in the dock, and because the new bowsprit plays an essential role in cruising, as well as fixing the silhouette of the yacht.
Matt was therefore apprehensive about the operation. Weighing the part before fitting, it already weighs 16 kilos, to which will be added the fabrics used to secure it to the boat. Once he's sure it's level, Matt adds biaxial glass fabrics to the side cheeks connecting to the walls, as well as to the underside. On deck, unidirectional carbon reinforcements further stiffen the connection, as the delphinière has to withstand 3 times the breaking load of the anchor chain. The bowsprit and gusset plates will work in tension with the spinnaker and in compression with the anchor.
After this work, Matt visits a ULDB built in the area, looking for inspiration.
An aesthetic joint
In today's episode 2, Matt looks for a way to ensure an aesthetic junction between the existing hull and the new bowsprit. A trial shaping pieces of foam seems appropriate, but Matt gives himself time to think.
In the meantime, he is gluing the Duracell roof. Gusset plates have been added to the mainsail track to reinforce it in the event of a violent gybe exerting a forward force. Matt then glued the roof rails, on which he left conformers, taking care to wax them to prevent them sticking to the structural parts. Filled epoxy gluing gives the boat's superstructure its near-final silhouette.
