quadmarans and pentamarans

Discussion in 'Boat Design' started by captiankeyboard, Feb 25, 2008.

  1. captiankeyboard
    Joined: Feb 2008
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    captiankeyboard Junior Member

    why do multihulls stop at three hulls?
     
  2. mj_lover
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    mj_lover Junior Member

    I believe it has something to do with tracking straight, and cost. I'm sure someone here can give you a more in depth answer.
     
  3. Leo Lazauskas
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    Leo Lazauskas Senior Member

    They don't.

    An example of an extant tetramaran is the SLICE. (My "diamond tetrahull" has never been built as far as I know). Nigel Gee has designed a pentamaran cargo ship.

    The main drawback of a large multiplicity of hulls is the increased skin friction which outweighs any benefits from reduced wave drag or increased stability.

    I'm still trying to work out which is the most consistent naming convention, e.g. dihull, trihull, tetrahull, pentahull all have Greek prefixes.

    All the best,
    Leo.
     
  4. kach22i
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    kach22i Architect


  5. Trevlyns
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    Trevlyns Senior Citizen/Member

    why do multihulls stop at three hulls?

    I believe you must strike a balance (pardon the pun) between stability and drag created by wetted surfaces in the water. Two hulls in the water (even a tri when flying one) make a pretty stable craft. Adding more seems pointless. My opinion anyway – click “post reply” to shoot me down! :p
     
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