2030 All-Solar-Powered Cat

[Adelie]

Originally Posted by valhalla360

I would love that if you could price it the same and get the same performance.



I would love a lot of things. A warp drive, teleporter, etc....



Most of the advancements have been in economies of scale more so than technology. Usually it makes more sense to increase the panel area rather than go for high end panels. Lots of vapor ware coming out but the technology isn't changing much.



More efficiency is the way to go but 5ft diameter props are completely unrealistic. The cost of a pair of props would be more than the boat.

You can get a 32" 5-blade for under $100. It might get you to 4kt but doubt it. The point of the large diameter is efficiency. If I could get 3kt using 700W in an outboard electric motor that would be wonderful. 3kt when it's dead calm, otherwise out of the water and no drag while sailing.

[Steamer]

Originally Posted by robertc1964

So, at that point would you give up wind and switch to electrons?

NEVER if in short!
I hate ANY "engines" and agree to be considered as a "dinosaur".

Good luck to all!

[valhalla360]

Originally Posted by Adelie

You can get a 32" 5-blade for under $100. It might get you to 4kt but doubt it. The point of the large diameter is efficiency. If I could get 3kt using 700W in an outboard electric motor that would be wonderful. 3kt when it's dead calm, otherwise out of the water and no drag while sailing.

Seadnpanger was suggesting 4-6ft diameter...drastically larger than your 32" prop.

A bigger prop is nice but you can't take it to silly extremes or other issues (such as price) start becoming a problem.

But where are you finding 32" 5 blade props for under $100. I had to replace an 18" bronze prop probably 20yr ago and it was north of $500. Just your stock 3 blade prop, nothing fancy. I wouldn't be surprised if it's north of $1000 now.

Yes, a boat designed for an outboard, so you can lift it clear of the water is great. Not only do you eliminate drag under sail, the prop stays clean with no corrosion, so when you do put it to use, you aren't losing a lot of efficiency due to crud on the blades. It also eliminate the need for fancy and expensive folding/feathering props.