racetuner
08-03-2009, 04:51 PM
I have a general inquiry for those expereinced with making strong light parts in glass and/or other composites. Im not concerned with what materials you use (within reason) just about realistically how much you think this part would weigh being stong enough to withstand winds of say 130 mph(its a cowling for a race vehicle)
The overall length would be about 16' width about 48" verticle height 12-18" The outter diamond shape as shown in cross section would be basically flat.
Im preferable to an outler layer of carbon or kevlar hybrid for looks but thats not essential. The outer 3" or so should be flat of minimal thickness and of enough strenght to hold fastening devices(possible Dzus or similar) The outer skirt does not need to be super strong when unattached to its mate, just enough to be handled. The outter skirt would get most of its strength from the area its attached to.
Is that enough info for a ball park?
Im thinking of 1-2 layers of cloth with a layer of core, foam or balsa etc then 1-2 more layers of cloth. Im sure vacuum bagging would be best for weight but how much can one expect to reduce by adding that complexity?
TIA
The overall length would be about 16' width about 48" verticle height 12-18" The outter diamond shape as shown in cross section would be basically flat.
Im preferable to an outler layer of carbon or kevlar hybrid for looks but thats not essential. The outer 3" or so should be flat of minimal thickness and of enough strenght to hold fastening devices(possible Dzus or similar) The outer skirt does not need to be super strong when unattached to its mate, just enough to be handled. The outter skirt would get most of its strength from the area its attached to.
Is that enough info for a ball park?
Im thinking of 1-2 layers of cloth with a layer of core, foam or balsa etc then 1-2 more layers of cloth. Im sure vacuum bagging would be best for weight but how much can one expect to reduce by adding that complexity?
TIA