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Work
with Fiberglass, Plastics and Composite Materials
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 Building
composite projects with materials like Kevlar®, carbon fiber,
"sandwiched" cores, and with advanced techniques like
"vacuum bagging", is something that every Wrench
Techinician should
learn about. And what better
way to learn than by building a high performace touring Kayak
or Canoe. With that under your belt you may want to look at the
exciting field of experimental aircraft building. Aircraft plans
and parts kits are readily available along with enthusiastic support
groups and builder workshops!
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-- Experimental
Aircraft Door --
Carbon Fiber Layup Curing in Vacuum Bag |
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Why
not build a high performance touring kayak or canoe using
composite construction techniques to develope your skils?
... Kayak
& Canoe Building Info |
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A
WrenchTech Recommended Books & Videos
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Fiberglass & Composite Materials: An Enthusiasts Guide,
by Forbes Aird
Experimental Aircraft Builders, Boat Crafters, Automotive and Motorcycle
Fabricators, Kit Car Buffs and Firearms Technicians all need to
understand these materials. A good starting point is the book, gives
beginners an overview of the materials and techniques. |
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Competition Car Composites
This practical and completely illustrated guide takes readers through
all aspects of composite-fiber applications with an emphasis on
methods and materials for the home workshop. Topics covered include:
explanations of composites and their properties, including glass,
carbon fiber, core materials and resins; a step-by-step guide to
"wet" and "dry" laminating techniques; pattern-
and mold-making; and recent advances in both materials and technologies. |
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Building
Your Kevlar Canoe: A Foolproof Method and Three Foolproof Designs
This book will show you how to build a high-tech Kevlar canoe with
a decidedly low-tech method — in a couple of weekends at a
fraction of the cost of a factory model. Kevlar is an extraordinary
material that is stronger (40% stronger) and lighter than fiberglass.
A 17-foot Kevlar canoe can weigh as little as 35 pounds, while a
canoe of this size in fiberglass will weigh as much as 90 pounds. |
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The
Basics of Fiberglass - Video
An introduction to the materials, terminology, and techniques of
fiberglass work. This introductory discussion of polyester and epoxy
resins, mats, fabrics, aramids and graphite is ideal for those new
to composites! |
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The
Art of Moldless Composites -- Video
Making a single part is easy after watching the construction of
an entire rear trunk assembly for this 1923 T-Bucket Hot Rod. It's
fun and easy to build in your own garage or shop! Learn the Art
of Moldless Composites and let your imagination do the rest. |
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Sources
For Materials
Fiberglass Fabric, Kevlar® ,Carbon FiberResin, PVA Release,
Mold Wax, How to Videos, Vacuum Bagging Equipment
Fibre
Glast Developments Corporation (Everything for Composite Construction)
Fiberglass
Suppyy Inc (Sailboard & Surfboard supplies too!)
Tap Plastics (Composite
and Plastics, Online and Retail Stores, West Coast)
John R. Sweet Co. (An East
Coast Supplier)
Aircraft
Spruce (Suppliers to the Experimental Aircraft Community)
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