CompoTech secures funding for innovative composite mast development
The initiative focuses on the design, simulation, and testing of a carbon fibre mast using fibre-wound sections, assembled for larger sailing vessels. Replacing traditional aluminium and composite masts formed in half-shell solutions with lighter, stronger, fibre-wound composite structures.
CompoTech has been awarded funding under the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade’s Innovation Vouchers – Call IV programme to support a groundbreaking marine industry R&D project. The project will develop a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model of a carbon fibre mast assembled from filament-wound sections, including the mast with joiners, spreaders, boom, and pre-tensioned rigging to accurately predict structural strength, stability, and the behaviour of critical connection points. The model will be validated against real-world measurements and used to optimise mast geometry, wall thickness, and fibre orientation for minimal weight and maximum performance.
In parallel, CompoTech will carry out compression and tensile testing of mast sections and joints to confirm the model’s predictions. This includes load testing of the mast profile with simulated rigging forces to verify stability and identify any required design refinements.
Strategic collaboration
The project will be delivered in collaboration with the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Czech Technical University in Prague, specifically the Department of Manufacturing Machines and the Department of Mechanics, Biomechanics and Mechatronics. These teams bring extensive expertise in composite modelling, finite element simulations, and experimental testing.
Impact and future applications
The project is scheduled to run from August to December 2025. Once complete, the new mast design will enable CompoTech to offer high-performance composite solutions for larger yachts in filament-wound sections. The validated design and modelling process will also accelerate future development of other cable-reinforced composite structures, such as telescopic masts for radar or metrology applications.
Cover photo: CompoTech
