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Hi Hugh and welcome to the group. There are several guys using the acrylic
domes, so I'll let them answer that one.
I looked at using stainless for my hull, and probably would go that way if
I was starting new but there are some draw backs.
First off, stainless doesn't have the yield strength of the 516-70 steel
most of us are using. Some of it gets as low as 35Kpsi.
Unless you get a higher grade like 309 or 316 stainless, it still gets
rusty. When you get to the higher grades, it can get brittle at the weld zone.
The cost is also a factor. My tank heads at 84 inches were about $1000 each plus
delivery. A low grade stainless like 304 was close to $2500 each, and again,
still gets rusty and isn't near as strong as the 70 series steel. Pretty much
have to rely on a good paint job to protect either type of metal so I went with
the 516-70. It's easily found, strong, malleable, and reasonably priced. This
steel is used for high temperature boiler applications and certified mill specs
can be had from the vendors.
Welding on it is easier too. I'm using a tig set-up for most welds, and
7018 arc rod for some cover passes. It's easy, clean, and the rod can be found
at any local supplier.
Mostly though, the extra strength is what made my decision.
Frank D. Delicious ideas to please the pickiest eaters. Watch the video on AOL Living. |