reframing woes

[Gareth Williams]

Now it should be easy shouldn't it. Got a kite framed in 8mm dowel, and decide to reframe it in 8mm carbon. So having invested in some 8mm tube and cut all to length, try a test fit and guess what, no joy

So a few minutes later I discover the problem. The 8mm fitting actually have an inside diameter of 7.9mm To make matters worse, the 8mm tube actually has an external diameter of 8.1mm

I'm presented with a choice. Drill out the fittings or grind down the tube. One option will require some extremely accurate work with a drill, while the other presents a problem of weakening, or even breaking the tubes, which were pretty expensive So which is it to be. Well after another coffee, my mind was made up and decided to grind the tube ends, very carefully.

Having marked the tube ends so I know how far down I've got to thin them down, fitted an orbital sander into a vice with medium grit pad and set on a low speed, time for a test. After a few trial fits, we've got to a good result. time to crack on with the real work. Several hours later, spread over a couple of days, and 24 tubes later (48 ends) the job is complete and all tubes now fit. ;D But it would have been much easier if they had been 7.9mm tubes and 8,1mm fittings

There's now a reframed Saul's barrage ready to fly

[malcolmf]

Well done Gareth, at least it kept you of harms way. Hope after all your hard work Saul's barrage flies well

[ekim]

Well done Gareth. If it was me I would have drilled out the connectors an easier option IMHO.

Just need some wind to fly it in now.

Mike

[Gareth Williams]

Drilling out its probably ok if you have a pillar drill and vice and can guarantee to line everything up perfectly. There was plenty of thickness of carbon to play with, but I couldn't guarantee my accuracy with a drill

[ekim]

Have exactly the same problem Gareth and must admit I was wrong. Your solution is the better especially as the guy that I usually borrow the 8.1 or 8.2mm drill is away at the moment and has his toolbox with him. Only 3 fittings (4 spar ends) to worry about though so not as great a problem as yours.

Minor mishap with superglue this afternoon, nearly ended up with my fingers permanently stuck to the bench!

Mike