BoatworksToday · video

What this video covers

Andy from Boatworks Today installs a Cusa composite transom core using Total Boat 2:1 epoxy with slow hardener.5:21 Because the transom features an Armstrong bracket that prevents through-bolting, he constructs five numbered wooden braces to maintain consistent pressure across the panels during the cure.4:08 To manage the large volume of epoxy and prevent premature gelling, he pre-thickens the resin with silica to a "ketchup" consistency before adding the hardener.6:56 He spreads the mixture to an eighth-inch thickness to ensure full surface-to-surface contact, accepting significant squeeze-out as a trade-off for bond integrity.10:16 After the initial cure, he fills perimeter gaps by piping a thicker, high-silica epoxy mixture into the voids using a plastic bag.18:54 He emphasizes safety by moving excess, exothermic-prone epoxy waste outside to a gravel surface to prevent fire hazards in the shop.16:20 Proper bracing and pre-thickening the resin allow for a controlled, high-strength lamination of large composite panels.

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