RAN Sailing · video

What this video covers

Fairing a 50-foot custom sailboat hull requires multiple layers of epoxy and filler to achieve a smooth surface without sanding through the fiberglass twill weave.1:42 To accelerate the process across 100 square meters of hull, a custom-made plywood sanding disc attached to a variable-speed polishing machine effectively bridges low spots and removes high points between fiberglass overlaps.4:49 While this improvised tool significantly reduces labor compared to manual longboarding, it requires careful handling and safety precautions due to potential instability.6:16 Future iterations will utilize a balanced 225mm Velcro disc to improve safety and consistency.9:50

Total material and tool costs for the build to date reach approximately $46,200.19:48 This includes $26,000 for hull materials, strongback construction, and interior timber, $11,750 for specialized machinery like a ShaprOrigin CNC router and a Hammer combo planer, $5,800 for 5,100 kilos of lead ballast, and $3,000 for consumables.16:38 Using a large-diameter sanding disc significantly reduces the time required to fair large hull surfaces compared to traditional longboarding.8:29

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