Special Sensors Used For Measuring the Pressure of the Keel Cylinders in Racing Boats

IMOCA boats can be fitted with a canting keel (tiltable keel). The key performance advantage of this tiltable keel is that, while the keel is tipped to the side which is facing the wind (windward), the tilt of the boat is decreased. In case of feasible capsize, the boat may be righted again by tipping the keel to its most extent.

Canting keels are obligatory in sailing races, since 2014. 

The keel is activated with the hydraulic cylinder constructed into the floor of the boat and linked to the keel. The distributor is among the hydraulic group (electric motor, hydraulic pump and oil tank) and the hydraulic cylinder. This includes electric valves wished for controlling the hydraulic pressure. Recently, special Sensors are designed that can be linked to the distributor, and measure the pressure of the keel cylinder.

The skipper can have an impact on the system and keel straightly using a control box. She/he can use this to strength the distributor or, to save energy, make the keel sink down using a «release» button.