August 16, 2010

Summer Core Materials Research

With fresh ideas from competition, this summer we have been researching improvements we can make to our boat!  We have been researching a new drivetrain and hull for the upcoming build year.  Specifically, we are investigating an inboard propulsion system that has the potential to significantly increase system efficiency.

To accommodate an inboard propulsion system, a new hull is being designed.  One item we have been researching for the new hull is core material.  We just performed a test layup with plastic honeycomb and are very pleased with the results.


The fiber glass has been soaked in epoxy and is being applied to the mold. 


The mold is complete and to be left under vacuum for 12 hours.


The layup is being unbagged the next day.


The layup has been cleaned up and looks amazing!