Building a raft w/ pvc pipe?

Just because I like to anticipate problems, I wonder how the strength of the pipe has been affected by compressing and distorting the top of the bends, and stretching the bottom of the bends.

Is an unexpected bow impact or high front deck loads going to open up all the pipes to sudden water entry, I wonder , over time and use especially?

This material was never intended for structural loads, constant impacts etc - and the fact that the Chinese use them extensively is no case for suitability of material.

If case you see any cracking, I have found that fibreglass bonds to these pipes really well, and is a great way to strengthen any damaged spots.


I would be interested to find out what the material costings were for this barge.

Its an interesting experiment, but the performance is the main reason why it will never be popular. If you look at the amount of disturbed water, and low top speed created by such a poor hydrodynamic underside - the fuel costs and low speed make it an undesirable design method for anyone but experimentalists.



PS
May I also refer you to
http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nysparks/boatersguide2013/#/22

re regulations about lifejacket usage in your state - especially now you have gone public on Youtube.

 

Give it over. Human ingenuity has eliminated a lot of causes of early death. We need to allow *some* scope for evolution in action....

PDW

 

Well, from a global point of view ....

The next videos Kazzer needs to watch



and for performance with a 5HP motor, also no Lifejacket ....

 

He had a lifejacket in the boat, he just wasn't wearing it....

.... but frankly I'd rather look at his girlfriend than a boxy boat. She looked a lot more shapely.

PDW

 

My reply is in capitals

 

Not me pal. I am not the slightest bit interested.

 

A new video of my raft!

http://youtu.be/e2Tp1r05zyI

 

Looks way cool.

Dino