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damianham · 09-08-2013, 06:34

In this image there is some structure on the front x beam. Exactly what purpose does it serve ?

regards
damian

**Cotemar** · 09-08-2013, 06:50

Have no idea what you are talking about?

The cross beam is called a sea gull striker(because it goes up).

Roy M · 09-08-2013, 07:47

Think suspension bridge. It makes an otherwise bendy beam stiffer in one axis.

Wanderlust · 09-08-2013, 08:24

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cotemar

The cross beam is called a sea gull striker(because it goes up).

In the Lagoon manual it's called a Dolphin Striker (because it pulls down??)

Anyway, as Roy M said, it stiffens the beam. The forestay is trying to pull the forebeam upwards, while that structure resists the beam bending and distributes the load to the outer mounting points. Without it, the beam would not have enough strength, and would just bend and ultimately break.

Cheechako · 09-08-2013, 08:45

Think in terms of what a mast spreader does... it keeps the beam from bending...

**Cotemar** · 09-08-2013, 09:10

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wanderlust

In the Lagoon manual it's called a Dolphin Striker (because it pulls down??)

Anyway, as Roy M said, it stiffens the beam. The forestay is trying to pull the forebeam upwards, while that structure resists the beam bending and distributes the load to the outer mounting points. Without it, the beam would not have enough strength, and would just bend and ultimately break.

Maybe these pictures will help. Sea gull striker is upward into the sky

sea gull striker - Google Search
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Dolphin Striker is downward into the water

dolphin striker - Google Search

44'cruisingcat · 09-08-2013, 14:41

The A frame and bridle convert the upward bending load, imposed by the forestay, into a compression load along the beam. The compression load can be handled by a much smaller section beam than the bending load could be.