Mainsail TR 1800

for racing sailboatstri-radial cutpolyester

Series 1800 utilizes tri-radial construction with pre-made high modulus composite materials featuring carbon, aramid and Spectra® fiber networks. There is a wide variety of material options available in this series. Boat size and expected usage will dictate material choice. BOAT SIZE 40' - 80' MATERIAL High modulus composites with carbon/aramid blends and taffeta exterior skins TRI-RADIAL SAIL CONSTRUCTION Tri-radial sails utilize panels of pre-made materials radiating from the three corners of the sail. The long, or “warp” fibers of the material are oriented to align with the primary load paths. Better alignment results in lower stretch improving shape holding. Tri-radials provide a performance upgrade for those who are looking for more than what a classic woven polyester sail can provide. When it comes to boat handling and speed, it’s sail shape that makes the difference. To achieve the ideal shape, Quantum’s sail designers use proprietary computational tools, part of the iQ Technology® suite, to create custom shaping, tailored on a sail-by-sail basis to expected usage and boat-specific constraints such as mast bend, displacement, and righting moment. There is a broad spectrum of material options ranging from simple woven materials, to custom composites and they are available from a variety of suppliers. In general, there are three categories: Woven Radial: Woven polyester specially designed with strength in the long (warp) direction so they can be used in tri-radial panel configuration. Compared to cross-cut woven polyester, this material offers 10 to 20% less stretch due to the material and the efficiency of the panel layout.