Re: [PSUBS-MAILIST] Hull materials - fiberglass???

[Jeff Post <jeffpost@rawbw.com>]

Hi All,

You might consider an ambient design using traditional FRP boatbuilding
techniques, but for a tradition sub design you will need to build the hull by
winding glass filaments onto a spindle. There are design specs for building
pressure hulls using this design, but for the amateur, the big draw back will be
price. Steel is a lot cheaper.

JP

Quoting Bob Duncan <katsurencho@yahoo.com>:

> People who aren't experienced with FRP are afraid of it. You build it with
> frames and and formers, and it should work just fine. Maybe put an aluminum
> liner on the inside. 
>  But, i haven't tried tobuild a submarine or submarine model with it
> either.
>  
> Bob
> 
> Marten Liebster <mliebster@tbteam.com> wrote:
> 
> I hope I'm not bothering you guys with all of my questions. This is just a
> great place to get information, as there are so many experienced psub-ers
> here!
> 
> In looking through the PSUBS pictures I came across the one being built by
> Alan D. Secor (http://www.psubs.org/psub_pic/alan_pic.html). The
> description
> mentions that the original builder, Taylor Commercial Submarine Co., rated
> it for 600 feet. 
> 
> What piqued my interest was that it was made of FRP (fiberglass). 
> 
> If I plan on not descending below 100 or so feet, is fiberglass a viable
> option for the hull? 
> 
> It seems as this would be less expensive and a lower weight option as
> compared to a metal hull. However, I do realize that a metal hull would
> potentially be a more sturdy hull. 
> 
> Would, at such relatively low depths, fiberglass would be as safe (assuming
> it is designed and reinforced properly)?
> 
> Marten
> 
> 
> Fact is stranger than fiction. Truth is stronger than fact. R. Duncan
> 		
> ---------------------------------
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