Why not *very* thick core in hull & deck?

Yup Thou there are other factors too (depending of the construction method used)

 

I'd like to hear some more specifics of what you are doing with this relatively thin metal jacket (barge decks) over what sort of 'foam'?

And why are you using 'alloy' for these barge decks,.... why not steel?

 

Hi Brian

The advantages vs disadvantages of alloy over steel is well documented so I will not go into this here.

The concept of metal sheet foam sandwich construction is advantageous in certain applications only.

It is most applicable to flat profiles where foam pressure can impose a convex surface to flat plate. This increases oil canning resistance e.g. on decks. It also reduces distortion (a major problem in flat alloy) while welding.

The pressurisation of hollow beams using foam enhances the above plus beam strength.

Both the above maximise benefit where the plate is thin enough to distort under pressure.

Cheers

M