Carbon direction

Rosario Alcaro, general manager of Invictus Yacht, a brand of Cantieri Aschenez, says: “The decision to use carbon fibre wasn’t made merely to enhance the model’s appearance. Rather, it is the result of a study aimed at improving our construction process.

“Thanks to carbon fibre, we’ve been able to enhance the material’s technical, structural and visual properties, leading to a better aesthetic quality and improved performance.

“Specifically, the pre-preg (pre-impregnated) technology enables us to reduce the weight between the hull and deck by about 50 percent, which translates into a 40 percent reduction in the boat’s overall displacement.

“This allows us to maintain the same mechanical strength, reliability and rigidity, while also reducing fuel consumption by using smaller engines without sacrificing performance.”

Traditional resin infusion techniques have limitations, such as inconsistencies in resin distribution, affecting structural integrity. The pre-preg process, which requires controlled storage at -18°C and precise thermal curing at 80°C, helps address these issues.

Cantieri Aschenez says it has implemented investments in refrigeration and environmental control. Cut according to CAD designs, the pre-impregnated sheets are arranged in moulds to optimise performance and achieve a uniform finish. Pressurisation during curing ensures fibre adhesion and minimal voids in the material.

Alcaro adds: “We wanted to start a small revolution with the GT280, one of our most successful models, as the 300th hull clearly shows. Our goal is to extend this innovation to key components across our entire range.

“Not only does this new process improve structural and aesthetic qualities, but it also reduces waste and lowers the environmental impact. Excess resin is removed during lamination, resulting in a cleaner and safer working environment.

“To put it into perspective, the foils on America’s Cup boats are made using this same technology, highlighting its extraordinary mechanical properties.”

The GT280 Carbon Look features a hull finished in exposed carbon fibre with a transparent coating to highlight the material’s weave. The deck and interior are finished in light tones to contrast with the black hull while also considering thermal comfort in strong sunlight. The displayed model is powered by a 300 hp Volvo Penta V8 petrol engine.

Other Invictus models were also presented at boot Düsseldorf. The TT460, a 14.27-metre model that received the Design Innovation Award in 2020, went on display alongside the 12.3-metre TT420.

The GT320, at 10 metres, marks the 100th hull in its series and was exhibited in an Atelier version, which focuses on customisation through colour and material choices.

The Capoforte range of day cruisers, from 6 to 9 metres, was displayed separately. This range includes the SQ240, the shipyard’s first fully electric model, alongside the SX280 inboard and the outboard-powered CX270 and CX250.

Invictus Yacht will also participate in the Dubai International Boat Show from 19 to 23 February 2025.

invictusyacht.com