Corky Scott wrote:
On Wed, 18 Aug 2004 15:09:00 -0400, Matt Whiting
wrote:


I was talking about the hull hitting the ways. Hitting a wave at 15-20
knots is a LOT of force. I'd have to do some research to find the
equivalent wind speed to provide the same force as hitting water at 20
knots, but it would be a lot of wind given the density difference
between wind and water.


Granted, hitting a wave at 15 to 20 knots does produce a lot of force.
But no sailing vessel reached that speed in the water until the advent
of the Clipper ships of the early to mid 1800's. Boats didn't need to
be clipping along at that speed to suffer severe and even terminal
destruction from wave action.

I think I've forgotten what we were debating. ;-)

Corky Scott

Corky

If you compute the velocity (vector) of a hull that is moving forward at
8-10 knots and dropping down into a wave in rough seas, I think you'll
find the impact velocity is higher than the speed of the ship.

The topic was can wood structures we built such that they can withstand
hurricane force winds. I'm arguing that a boat hull is very likely
strong enough. It is amazing how strong 8" thick timbers are.


Matt