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Old 03-17-2004 | 08:05 PM
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SeditiousCanary
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Joined: Jan 2004
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From: Tucson, AZ
Default Composit help...

OK, how do you do it?

I'm beginning to think this info is slightly classified. A few Google searches later, I feel like I know less now then I did when I started trying to figure this out.

Setting:
I'm trying to build a mosquito class glider for DL or SAL use.

Requirements:
Wingspan: 48" or less
Length: 24" or less
Tail configuration: Conventional only (I hate v-tails, you can't make me like them. I'm already worrying about skin friction, but I am unwilling to reduce drag by making a tail I hate.)
Wing configuration: single dihedral, or tip dihedral
Control configuration:
Rudder: Pull-Pull
Elevator: Would like Pull-Pull, but will consent to pushrod
Break Down: Two-part wing (three part if tip dihedral) and removable horizontal stab. All parts much fit into a 24" long box.

Now that you have an idea of what I'm looking to make, how the hell do you do composites? I'm trying to go for something like the LiftWorx Seeker (www.liftworz.com), but with skinned wings. I'm not opposed to Pod/Boom construction, but how the hell do you do it? I've found a few sites which speak volumes about it, but I cannot find one that was written by someone who has every written instructions for someone they didn't personally know and would be there to answer any questions. I have the basic idea down. Wet, squeegee, lay, wrap, bag, vac, wait, trim, sand, recoat, wait, finish. I think most of my questions are largely technically based:
What sort of combinations of fiberglass, carbon, Kevlar should I use?
How do you do multiple layers?
When do you do multiple layers?
What sort of epoxy do I use?

Closing:
Anyone got a reference for me?

My sanity, or lack there of, thanks you.

Chris