Methacrylate window sticked at fiberglass frame

Discussion in 'Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building' started by mikels, Feb 19, 2004.

  1. mikels
    Joined: Oct 2003
    Posts: 4
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: Bilbao

    mikels New Member

    It is not the best, I know.
    But, by several reasons, I "should" stick the curved methacrylate shape of window directly with a new rigid frame of fiberglass/polyester.
    I suppose the rigidity, for not break.
    But, know you if it is any other problem with this interface methacrylate-fiberglass? (methacrylate 8 mm., 52 cm x47 cm, encircled by rigid fiberglass hull, fiber frame 8 mm. layed on 8 cm at all sides on methacrylate)
    It will break?
    Thanks (and excuses)
    Mikel
     
  2. Palmer
    Joined: Nov 2002
    Posts: 53
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: Tacoma, Wa

    Palmer Junior Member

    Frameless house windows are pretty common in larger custom yachts. Those I've seen have been tempered monolithic glass with a ceramic frit around the perimeter glued in with poylurethane adhesives. Pretty much like a car windshield. It works well and gives a nice clean appearance. Methacrylate would probably work as well or better. But I've never seen these in hulls and don't think I'd do it.
     
  3. gonzo
    Joined: Aug 2002
    Posts: 18,369
    Likes: 2,412, Points: 123, Legacy Rep: 2031
    Location: Milwaukee, WI

    gonzo Senior Member

    I understand you have a frame around the window, so it is sandwiched between the hull and it. It may or may not break depending on how the hull flexes and if it will impact docks or other hard objects. Can you use thick foam seals?
     
  4. mikels
    Joined: Oct 2003
    Posts: 4
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: Bilbao

    mikels New Member

    I think the hull is rigid. Not impacts. ¿Bad interaction (expansion-contraction)?

    Thanks, Gonzo.
    I suppose (I risk) not flexion of hull shape around the methacrylate (the hull is very hard: I have reinforced it for that).
    Not high risk of impact.
    I be in doubt on interaction of possible differences of expansion-contraction between methacrylate and fiberglass (weakening?) wich are sticked, without these thick foam seals (by construction-maintenance problems and leakproof requirements).
    Mikel
     
  5. gonzo
    Joined: Aug 2002
    Posts: 18,369
    Likes: 2,412, Points: 123, Legacy Rep: 2031
    Location: Milwaukee, WI

    gonzo Senior Member

    Ask your local provider for a caulk that will adhere to both surfaces.
     
  6. mikels
    Joined: Oct 2003
    Posts: 4
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: Bilbao

    mikels New Member

    Thanks
    Mikel
     
  7. spoedvraat
    Joined: Feb 2004
    Posts: 16
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: South Africa

    spoedvraat Junior Member

    Hi Mikels,

    Just to repeat what has already been said, the expansion of the acrylic is a lot more than one expects, so be sure to leave enough room between acrylic and frame, into which the window can expand. Sikaflex has a manula which shows how to do it, if I remember correctly.
     
  8. mikels
    Joined: Oct 2003
    Posts: 4
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: Bilbao

    mikels New Member

    Thanks.
    I am reading now the Manual at the Web of Sika. It is very clear.
    Regards
    Mikel
     

  • Loading...
    Forum posts represent the experience, opinion, and view of individual users. Boat Design Net does not necessarily endorse nor share the view of each individual post.
    When making potentially dangerous or financial decisions, always employ and consult appropriate professionals. Your circumstances or experience may be different.