International
interest in the Tranpac 52 Class is booming and in response to that,
Van Gorkom Yacht Design unleashes their latest racing boat design, the
TP52XS. Offshore or around the cans, this ride will definitely be in
the hunt for line honors.
VGYD are developing and optimizing their TP52XS to the latest version
of the Tranpac 52 Rule. With the experience gained on previous race
boat projects, which included tank testing and VPP optimization, VGYD
have created what they believe will be the very best compromise of
effective length, waterline beam, hull flare and prismatic. There is no
doubt that this quick, streamline canoe body with fine entry forward
will guarantee a dominant windward performance, while the powerful
after sections will ensure a superior reaching ability.
Significant effort has also been applied to the appendage geometries.
The keel is a state-of-the-art, high-lift/low-drag foil and "T" bulb
configuration providing the boat with a powerful righting moment and
great balance. The rudder has the same high-lift sections
with an
elliptical trailing edge, which maximize efficiency and minimizes
drag. This keel and rudder combination contributes to a
remarkably agile and well balanced boat.
The runnerless, fractional rig is carbon fiber designed to the minimum
Class weight and VCG. The spreaders are swept back at 20o and
the
double D3s go to both the hounds and the masthead giving added
transverse and lateral support when flying the big asymmetric kite or
Code 0. The non-overlapping jib configuration allows for maximum
support of the mast by terminating the shrouds into carbon fiber
chainplates built into the hull sheer.
The ergonomics and geometry of the cockpit and deck have been designed
for strength, functionality and sea keeping. The strength comes from
the inherent shape of the cockpit, house and deck camber with
relatively smooth transitions in structural elements. The deck
arrangement promotes maximum efficiency in crew work and line handling
with port and starboard helming, two centerline grinder positions (main
& primaries), through-the-boom mainsail sheeting, and a well
laid
out pit station. Below decks is a functional interior attuned to
offshore sailing. There is a centerline, aft-facing navigation station,
six pipe births, a small working galley, and an enclosed head.
The construction of the post-cured hull and deck structure consists of
a pre-preg carbon fiber laminate over a foam and Nomex core using an
epoxy resin. Carbon fiber is also used in areas of high
loadings
such as stringers, frames, and chainplates. The rudder blade
and
stock are all carbon. The keel is a steel fin with an integrated lead
bulb.
