I've started a thread about a project to resurrect a board snapped in half. It's on Seabreeze Windsurfing Tasmania.
"Relic Repair" It's a training project before I build a board.
Here is my version of Mikes Vacum Pump design, made all the easier with a proven design; Fridge compressor out of a garden variety domestic fridge. I've used Pneumatic push fittings and hose. The fittings allow tool free fitting, they can be dismantled easily and provide a perfect seal. I opted for a kPa gauge because I'm a diver and relate better to ATM equivalents. A check (one way valve) added to slow loss of vacum if the compressor fails (I'll have a "Hot Spare").. Inexpensive insurance given the cost of the materials for a project.
The PVC 100mm tube is a vacum chamber to catch any resin vapour that might clagg the system. (The lid had to be glued because it refused to seal).. I heard of a disaster with a system that pulled resin back through destroying an expensive set up and a ruined project.
The bag coupler is a marine skin fitting with nylon and neoprene washers.
The only problem encountered was the oiler to prevent seizure of compressor (Tin Can). On the first attempt engine oil was used, which made the compressor stall when started from cold. I figured oil was too low viscosity. I purged the compressor and made a mix of CRC and auto trans fluid which works better.
The system will pull a vacum of -100kPa maximum
Cost was about $150 and a six pack of beer (Fridge Compressor) It can be done a lot cheaper without my extravagance of pneumatic fittings. An overnight test was successful.
Once I've built an oven to aid curing I'll lay-up the project. (My shed is on the shady side of the house and is not warm enough for curing epoxy) Besides Tassie is freezing all the time so no one would ever want to come here
Images are taken at a top secret,secure location. Guarded by a man eating guard dog.
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