Ker 46+ 'Denali'

The Ker 46+ is significantly lighter than the previous generation, but its powerful hull form ensures excellent upwind and reaching performance. The hull shape is the product of an extensive formal optimisation involving a large volumes of RANS CFD data, leveraged through use of Neural Networks and proprietary optimisation techniques. The optimisation process for the 46+ benefits from real data.

Taking the structural optimisation to levels rarely seen outside of Americas Cup, the final lamination is the product of structural weight v stiffness optimisation, and the deflection of the shape under sailing loads is taken into account in the definition of the moulded shape. Construction is from pre-preg Carbon and carefully selected foams throughout; a large weight saving from the infused Ker46 design. The keel and mast support structure follows our tried and tested approach, built in the autoclave on machined aluminium moulds for reliability and accuracy.

An extensive keel shape optimisation has been carried out, achieving very significant section drag gains downwind without compromising upwind gains. These downwind gains have been used to increase the fin area, making the design easier to sail to its potential in variable conditions. During recent years we have evolved our approach to keel fin structures, retaining our extremely cautious approach while taking advantage of extensive FEA structural optimisation and IRC's new freedom of keel fin material and processing selection to save considerable weight. The rudder design uses an optimal blend of high modulus, intermediate modulus and standard modulus carbon fibre types to maximise its strength and stiffness within its design constraints, and is solid carbon right through its thickness in way of the critical lower bearing position.