Forums > Wing Foiling General

What is minimum volume to barely float?

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Created by Freddofrog > 9 months ago, 1 Apr 2022
Freddofrog
WA, 522 posts
1 Apr 2022 2:02PM
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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
5364 posts
1 Apr 2022 2:44PM
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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
WA, 7876 posts
1 Apr 2022 2:45PM
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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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"What is minimum volume to barely float?" started by Freddofrog