Using Rare Earth Magnets to Join Composite Structures
You know what I think is a little silly? Using clecoes to join composite structures. I mean, sure, they work, but unlike when you are working with sheet metal, at the end of it you have a bunch of useless holes that have to get filled in. Also, multiple insertions/removals of the cleco tends to … Read more
The Method Part II – Demolding the Parts
Following up on my previous post on my method of making high quality, re-usable tooling with CNC machined foam and Stretchelon bagging film, here’s how things tend to go on the demold side. First, turn off the pumps, and then remove all the secondary fabrics/films that are bagging the part: I’ve left the peel ply … Read more
Creating High Quality, Reusable Molds with CNC Machined Foam and Stretchelon Bagging Film – aka “The Method”
This post is really the culmination of a few years of research, research that I’ve decided to set loose into the world. We call this “The Method,” or sometimes “The Stretchelon Trick” and it’s my primary method of creating tooling for composite parts these days. As an example, I’m using the Giles 200 gear leg … Read more
Surface Prep and Block Sanding DVD
I’m a huge believer in technique. I grew up building balsa model airplanes, and was always blown away by the quality and cleanliness of some people’s work. As I kid I thought, “there’s no way I’ll ever build like that, those guys just have some sort of magic touch that can’t be taught.” While there … Read more
