38mm optima and a few plywood questions

[KurtH]

So I have decided to build a DD optima, and figured I would go with a 38mm mount. I stopped by Michaels to get some 1/8th ply and every sheet was warped, so I left empy handed. Is there a way to un-warp 1/8th inch ply? I do have a some 1/4" ply but that just seems to be too thick for a 2.6" rocket. I am using Semroc heavy duty tubes.

Thanks

[Aksrockets]

Spray the plywood with water (just a little). Clamp them between 2 flat boards or books and let them sit overnight. Comes out nice and flat.

Alex

[jadebox]

So I have decided to build a DD optima, and figured I would go with a 38mm mount. I stopped by Michaels to get some 1/8th ply and every sheet was warped, so I left empy handed. Is there a way to un-warp 1/8th inch ply?

If one side of the plywood has more moisture in it than the other, it will bow. If the plywood is bowed, you can moisten the concave side then place it on a flat surface in the sun, moist side down. It will flatten out (often quicker than you'd expect). This works well with thicker plywood. For 1/8" thick plywood, though, it might be a challenge getting it flat and making it stay. You might try moistening it a little and placing it between two flat sheets (such as glass) and letting it sit until the moisture evaporates. Once it's flat, seal it so moisture won't affect it.

-- Roger