I have built a new rudder pedal and foot-pump assembly for my Nordkapp, and I was very pleased with it until I weighed it. I'm too embarrassed to admit how obese it is, but a weight-loss program using cosmetic surgery has started. It is made from fibreglass, and I have laid it up very thick. It is easily the strongest part of my whole kayak. Now I need advice. Am I better to reduce the thickness, by cutting back with a Dremel tool, or to drill holes through it in strategic places? If I do, am I better to use fewer, large holes, or more small ones? I'm keen on the hole drilling route (I've already started), as it will be easier, but I know I will quickly reach a point of diminishing returns. At some stage I will start again and use core-mat, Carbon/Kevlar and better design, but for now I want the easiest route. Any suggestions? -- John Kirk-Anderson Banks Peninsula NEW ZEALAND *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
On 4 Jul 2005 at 22:31, John Kirk-Anderson wrote: > Am I better to reduce the thickness, by cutting back with a Dremel > tool, or to drill holes through it in strategic places? If I do, am I > better to use fewer, large holes, or more small ones? I'd reserve comment until I saw what the thing looked like. In general, drilling holes is not a very effective way to reduce weight. The strength reduction is often greater than the weight reduction. One hole in the wrong place can do a lot of strength reduction. Can you post a couple of photos on a web site? Mike *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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