Got to see the test case for graphite bottoms at Chesapeake Light Craft (CLC) today --- it was an observation on Chris Kulczycki's Fall '98 "Notes From Our Shop" at CLC that started this thread. Specifically, Chris said that mixing graphite powder with epoxy "make[s] a smooth, tough and, most importantly, a low-friction coating." Typically, Chris uses only about half of a six ounce, $6 can of graphite per boat, so we're not talking major cost or weight here. The bottom is tougher and more scratch resistant than painted epoxy, can easily be faired when it's needed, and, therefore, probably provides some increase in hull speed --- or, at least, minimizes the develoment of drag from scratches in the surface. Downside is that it is a dull dark gray color. Okay for the bottom --- pretty boring for the whole hull. But tough and very smooth. Jack Martin *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/ ***************************************************************************Received on Wed Nov 11 1998 - 18:56:58 PST
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