CORZERO
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Feb 5, 2015
- Messages
- 714
- Reaction score
- 7
Regarding fin core materials: I will preface by saying cost is not an issue, so I am not looking for bargain solutions. This is a construction exercise. I am working on this project:
View attachment MARK13.ork
Without opening the file, fin root chord= 16.5", tip chord = 3", span = 5", core material = .250". This will be a mach vehicle.
My objective is light weight and strength. I want to construct laminated fins with a core material. Does anyone have any experience in this arena?
Construction method will employ vacuum bagging with no heat (room temp cure). Skin material will be 3k carbon fiber cloth and Aeropoxy. Have not decided number of layers and I am not interested in prepreg at this time.
Core material:
Thus far I have read that Nomex honeycomb provides the strongest and lightest per square rating. End grain balsa on the other hand, is the most widely used core material in an array of applications and is comparable in all measurements of strength.
My concern with Nomex is beveling, or fin edges. If I had a solution for edges I would use Nomex. I am leaning towards balsa for this reason, as from what I have read I will not lose any significant strength and I can bevel and cap fin edges with carbon fiber.
I have considered aluminum honeycomb, but I am not sure I have the facilities to ensure a proper bond and I will not use prepreg.
Are there any other core materials others have used with success?
Any ideas on fin edges for Nomex?
Anyone experience any failures with core fin laminates?
View attachment MARK13.ork
Without opening the file, fin root chord= 16.5", tip chord = 3", span = 5", core material = .250". This will be a mach vehicle.
My objective is light weight and strength. I want to construct laminated fins with a core material. Does anyone have any experience in this arena?
Construction method will employ vacuum bagging with no heat (room temp cure). Skin material will be 3k carbon fiber cloth and Aeropoxy. Have not decided number of layers and I am not interested in prepreg at this time.
Core material:
Thus far I have read that Nomex honeycomb provides the strongest and lightest per square rating. End grain balsa on the other hand, is the most widely used core material in an array of applications and is comparable in all measurements of strength.
My concern with Nomex is beveling, or fin edges. If I had a solution for edges I would use Nomex. I am leaning towards balsa for this reason, as from what I have read I will not lose any significant strength and I can bevel and cap fin edges with carbon fiber.
I have considered aluminum honeycomb, but I am not sure I have the facilities to ensure a proper bond and I will not use prepreg.
Are there any other core materials others have used with success?
Any ideas on fin edges for Nomex?
Anyone experience any failures with core fin laminates?