What is a Forward Taper? (FT) - The shape when a batten is compressed on a scale over it's whole length. A 'steep taper' moves the maximum deflection towards one end which is described as percentage of overall batten length. A 'mild taper' moves the maximum deflection percentage (%) closer to the center. A 'no taper' places the maximum deflection percentage (%) location exactly in the geographic center.

Batten Formula

What is a Reverse Taper? (RT) - The stiff portion of the batten is compressed only from the maximum deflection point to the leech end. It is always stiffer than the FT and can vary in flex shape.

What is Flex Resistance? (FR) - It is the scale reading in kilograms (kg) when the batten is compressed minus the weight of the batten.

What is Reverse Resistance? (RR often just RT) - It is the net force in kilograms (KG) required to buckle the stiff portion of the batten only.

All SAILBONE® custom battens are marked with their individual specifications and dated. This allows for efficient and accurate duplication in replacing battens. As well, knowing your batten specifications allows us to alter the sail shape for optimum performance by modifying the batten specifications.

Scale