What is minimum volume to barely float?

4 years ago
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Freddofrog
Freddofrog
WA
522 posts
WA, 522 posts
1 Apr 2022 2:02pm
I'm ~ 75kg.
Foil/wing/boom/wetsuit/helmet etc ~ 10kg
Common belief says you need your weight in litres, ie 75L, but shouldn't it be 85L, or am I missing something?
(assuming no wind)
colas
colas
5388 posts
5388 posts
1 Apr 2022 2:44pm
Freddofrog said..
I'm ~ 75kg.
Foil/wing/boom/wetsuit/helmet etc ~ 10kg
Common belief says you need your weight in litres, ie 75L, but shouldn't it be 85L, or am I missing something?
(assuming no wind)


No, you are right. However, in practice:
- Some things underwater also add a bit of volume: the foil, the pad.
- Often the board volumes are the ones gives by the shaping software. The added PVC sandwich layer may add a bit of volume
- Salt water add a bit of floatation. About 3%, nearly 2,5 "virtual litres" to a 75L board.
- And most importantly in practice, you will sink if perfectly still. But the slightest speed (wind push, slight paddling) will add an upwards push from the board and foil. This is the main factor explaining why you seem to float on a board that should theoretically sink.
hilly
hilly
WA
8132 posts
WA, 8132 posts
1 Apr 2022 2:45pm
Freddofrog said..
I'm ~ 75kg.
Foil/wing/boom/wetsuit/helmet etc ~ 10kg
Common belief says you need your weight in litres, ie 75L, but shouldn't it be 85L, or am I missing something?
(assuming no wind)


You are assuming everything is above the waterline and stated volumes are accurate
It is not an exact science there are so many variables from the boards weight through to your balance.
I strongly suggest you demo a board -10l with a concave deck. They are more stable than you would think. Anything above the waterline adds to corkiness.
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