G-10 and Sitka Spruce

[timeandtide]

I have a couple of materials questions. I’ve got some g-10 sheet left over from when I rebuilt the compression block beneath the mast in my C&C and I was wondering if it is considered “high tech” material. It is just fiberglass in sheet form and I’d like to use it for the backing plates for my deck hardware. Also I have a couple of choices for my stringers and battens locally; yellow pine, Douglas fir, or Sitka spruce. I would like to use the spruce for its strength to weight ratio and almost legendary status in boat and aircraft manufacture. I have researched the various strengths and weaknesses of each variety I am just seeking some feedback. Thanks for your time! -Josh Kali Hull #157

[captdan]

Hi Josh,
Re: frame material
I believe that there is a post all about that from early in 2020. The long and the short of it was that, Don said as long as you can show some data that what you are using is at least as strong as what is in the Plans, then you are good. I have heard about the Sitka Spruce ( I dont know the data ) and I think that would be stronger that the specified timber in the Plans. I used white pine ....
Re: G-10
You might want to ask that one to Don when he gets back from his voyage

Cheers!

[timeandtide]

Thanks Dan! I have read that post and came to the same conclusion I was just curious if anyone might say “oh no! You’re nuts for the using spruce!” And for the g-10 I kind of figured I’d be waiting on Don to cross the pond hehe. Thanks for the reply! -Josh Hull #157

[timeandtide]

I did some more research and it looks like the sitka spruce is actually weaker than both pine and fir and is typically used in construction of spars and masts. The douglas fir is looking like the best option for me. -Take care -Josh Hull #157

[thomas]

Thanks for this information. I`m using also douglas fir. For me the best choice in stability, price and availability.
I wrote some notes in my blog about timber / douglas fir:
minisailer.ch/?p=87

[captdan]

Dec 4, 2021 7:52:22 GMT thomas said:

Thanks for this information. I`m using also douglas fir. For me the best choice in stability, price and availability.
I wrote some notes in my blog about timber / douglas fir:
minisailer.ch/?p=87

I used the Douglas Fir for my rudder and daggerboards ....... it was great to work with - very stable and strong in the 2 months I was sailing this summer.
Cheers

[timeandtide]

Hello everyone, I am still looking for some confirmation from Don that I can use some G-10 in my construction or if it is considered 'High Tech' material. Its not crazy fancy, just epoxy resin and glass in board form. Also, what are the dimensions for the tiller? After scouring the plans it looks like 760mm long x 44mm wide x 50mm tall is that about right? Thanks, -Josh Hull #157 'Cloud Atlas'

[brucel]

hi Josh, did you get any feedback on using G-10 in the construction?

[timeandtide]

Hey Bruce, yes I hear back from Don. He said as long as I am only using it for backing plates for deck hardware that it would be okay to use. As it is heavier than comparatively thick plywood I wouldn’t want to use too much anyways.

[brucel]

Good to know. Thanks