RAN Sailing · video

What this video covers

Structural reinforcement of the port-side lower shroud bulkhead requires removing an existing interior floor section to provide adequate access for vacuum bagging the carbon fiber tabbing. The owner previously completed the starboard-side bulkhead but struggled with vacuum bag sizing, noting that narrow bags prevent proper pleating in tight corners. To ensure precise alignment of the chain plate mounting holes, a custom jig is used in conjunction with augmented reality to map the drill pattern onto the new laminate. This method avoids the need for pre-drilling holes in the epoxy fillets, which previously caused issues with locating voids. The project involves evaluating material options for the chain plates, specifically comparing Grade 5 titanium against high-grade stainless steels like SMO 254. While titanium offers superior corrosion resistance, it requires complex insulation to prevent galvanic corrosion when paired with stainless steel rigging and necessitates specialized welding equipment. The owner concludes that high-grade stainless steel remains the more practical choice for the final installation.

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