RE: Large composite shell using molded balsa
 

Shell rigidity was tested with a highly scientific acoustic method, rapping with a stick.:) Seriously though, the shell is extremely rigid.

Well, that is about it for shell fabrication. I think the shell is going to work well. I'll update this thread occasionally as the jet comes together.

Bob

Link to short video:

http://www.rcuvideos.com/item/F9GRFCGGP8Z8GHL2

RE: Large composite shell using molded balsa
 

The turtle deck and fin assembly will become integral stressed portions of the fuse, so composite shells are used. The method used is a bit different than discussed in the previous posts.

- Frame structure is built on top of fuse, but not yet attached.
- Balsa skins are glued up.
- Balsa skins are water saturated and then pinned to the frame structure for drying. Skins assume compound curvature of the frame.
- Inside surfaces of skins are glassed.
- Frame structure is glued to fuse, skins are glued to frame structure.
- Outside surface will be glassed.

A bit tedious, but the results are good. This method also works well on fuselage structures if the compound curvature is not too severe.

RE: Large composite shell using molded balsa
 

Any updates Bob? I'm following with great interest. This is a cool way to make (yet another) cool jet!

Rob came over yesterday, we had a great conversation about which way to go with his F-20. Great guy!

All the best,

Sean

RE: Large composite shell using molded balsa
 

Hi Sean, nothing to report as I have been covered up with a work project for nearly a month. I hope to get back to work on this thing in a couple of weeks.

Rob is indeed a good guy. Like you, he was very helpful when I was considering a jump into jets. It would be good to see a couple of F-20's zipping around the Texas skies.

RE: Large composite shell using molded balsa
 

Since most of the composite shell fabrication is complete and the remainder of the build is fairly conventional, I'll finish out the build on the jets forum. For those who are interested:

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7547085

Regards,
Bob