38
•
CORE MATERIAL
Many different cores are available for use in sandwich construction because it has superior
physical properties over all other cores and is resistance to water penetration and savings in
weight.
•
QUALITY CONTROL
Great care is taken in controlling the quality during the production of laminated parts.
The following steps are necessary to guarantee that the physical properties used in the
design is the same as those which are built into the part.
•
GELCOAT TESTING
Gelcoat application is carefully controlled to ensure the proper coating thickness and performance.
This is important when considering blister resistance. Proper catalyzation, thickness and low
porosity are key in producing a finish that will best resist the osmotic passage of moisture. Control
of catalyzation is also very important for weatherability.
•
HULL AND DECK ASSEMBLY
•
TABBING
Major structural framing and bulkheads are glassed to the hull and deck using double bias glass
fabric. This provides for an integral bond between the hull, deck and frames.
•
HULL AND DECK FLANGES
Laminate thicknesses are increased in the hull and deck flanges to distribute the high local stresses
that are produced in these areas. Fasteners and adhesives are used to insure a strong, watertight
joint between these flanges.
•
HULL/DECK JOINT
Before fastening, 3M-4000 high-strength urethane adhesive sealant is applied to the flanges to
totally seal the joint. This combination of fastening every six inches and bonding creates an
unusually strong watertight hull to deck joint.
•
HARDWARE REINFORCING
All internal and external hardware connections are engineered individually for long lasting
integrity. Additional laminate reinforcing and backing plates are used as required to ensure reliable
fastening for all deck hardware.
•
THRU-HULL FITTINGS
Thru-hull fittings are constructed of the highest quality glass reinforced nylon available for above
the waterline application and solid bronze for below. 3M-4000 sealant is used to create a water-
tight seal between the hull and the thru-hull fitting. The hull laminate core is sealed around the
fitting to prevent water from entering the core.