[simpits-tech] F16 Canopy Frame

[simpits-tech@simpits.org]

Marv De Beque wrote:
> 
> An alternative would be to make one from carbon fiber.  Carbon fiber is very
> light and extremely strong.  Go to:
> 
> http://www.aircraftspruce.com/index.php
> 
> They sell carbon fiber cloth and the resin needed to make what you need.
> You can hand lay it easy enough, but you will need many layers.  You can use
> cardboard as a starting frame and layer over that to build up the frame.
> However, you may also want to consider using aluminum tubing as a core for
> additional strength.
> 
> What ever you do it will most likely not be cheap.

I'd go with kevlar over vertical grain balsa with a skin of glass so you
can sand it. Carbon is too brittle and way too expensive. Kevlar is only
a little less rigid, but it can't be sanded (or even cut) by anything
most mortals have in their garage. I use ceramic scissors. Try
www.fiberglast.com or www.fiberlay.com before AS&S, though. Much, much
cheaper.

Always remember rule #1 when working with composites: compound curves
are strong, flat plates are not.

Rule #2 is: Always keep the cell phone within reach as you will
eventually glass yourself to the floor and need someone to bring your
beer to you since you can't go to it ;)
-- 
Steve
mysticz28@swbell.net
Jesus saves, Budda enlightens, Cthulhu thinks you'll make a nice
sandwich.