2020_Tenth
The full scale version of this boat is about 37 feet long. This is just a 1:10 scale model to validate the parametric hull generator and learn to weld aluminum...
There are two different designs and the pictures flip back and forth between the two designs which were being developed in parallel.
November 2020 - Parts exported from blender - cut with 5000w CO2 laser
Parts fit together nicely without any welding
I split some of the bulkheads for more efficient nesting then welded them together after laser cutting. Bulkheads with a big hold in the middle waste a lot of space on material. Splitting open bulkheads can nest tighter.
Test assembly after welding bulkhead halves together.
Assembled frame showing longitudals and bulkheads attached to keel.
Using clamps to attach wall plates to frame before welding.
Assembly in progress....
The tips were harder to bend together because of the size and thickness ratio.... 3mm (1/8th inch) 5052 aluminum
First tack welds on skin...
Bottom welded up a bit more... I should have put the last skin piece in before doing weldout but this model the skin piece is deliberately left out on purpose so people can see the support strucuture more easily.... this model isn't designed to float - just for looking.
Looking down the inside showing support structure.
Top sides welded....
This is a different version with windows...
This one also has a double keel in the bottom...
Pilot house in place...
Side closeup of weldup in progress...
The front was hardest to bend in - so I made a jig to hold it exactly where I want it while I TIG weld it...
Removing Jig after welding...
Welding top corner of hull (hull is rotated on side)...
TIG welding with Lincon Squarewave 200... 100% argon, 1.6mm 4043 filler wire...
It floats... tail end showing keel extending through bottom of hull...
Feburary 2021 - Front view of boat floating...
I worked on this a few hours a once or twice a week.
I'm excited to scale up and build a larger version...
coming soon...