Foam Core Replacement

[SS MAYFLOAT]

Since I am in the process of re-stringering my boat, I also noticed that the foam core inserts in my hull are water soaked around the area of my holding tank. This also rotted out one section of my stringer (which I have another post on). Is there a product that you can buy to refill these voids in your hull? Great Stuff comes to mind, but I want strength and not insulation! Thanks All!

 

[12Footer]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

Great stuff is the same stuff,but in aresol form,and an added catalist which is air-activated. I haven't used it personally, but have seen the guy on "Ship Shape TV" use it.<br />He also used the 2-part foam mostly,that can be found in fiberglass supply shops...Pricey stuff,but it is what the industry uses.<br />1 tip, Mayfloat. Don't be affraid to overfill the cavity with the mixture. You can cut the excess very easily, and as long as it doesn't get on anything like carpet or cloth,a snap to remove with your hands (It doesn't bond at all to non-pourous surfaces).

 

[joe parker]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

Clark Craft sells a two part, pour in place, floatation foam. I used it and was impressed with the product and the company. They have a good web-site.

 

[Philby]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

Be carefull with stuff, it multiplies rapidly and before you know it you'll have a boat full of foam.<br /><br />The main thing is, make sure it has an exit route, and calculate you volumes as per the tins. As 12 footer says, you can overfill the cavity and trim off the excess, but if you can get it right, you will have a nice crusty outer layer.If allowed to expand naturally it becomes the crisp foam you are looking for. If it is pressurised you end up with one big soft spoonge.<br /><br />I learnt this from making many a sinking surf board.

 

[MIKE F]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

One other thing to consider is the density of the foam.I believe you want the highest density you can get, for your purpose, not just something that would act as a filler.<br />

 

[mworthan]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

Hey it's me, the long winded one from your other post. Try www.raka.com for the flotation foam. It's a 2 lb. density foam which will work well for general flotation. Good prices and quality on resins and other components. Have used them on several strip canoes and small boats.<br /> One tip, don't waste money on graduated mixing cups to mix this stuff. It's tough to get out and very sticky. Instead buy a pack of SOLO cups. They have lines or steps molded into their shape and are identical. Just pick a common "step" in the cup, pour part "A" in one cup to that line, in another cup pour part"B" to the same line then in a seperate cup pour them together. Mix quickly over the area you wish to fill and pour as soon as the liquid turns cloudy. Then just stack the cups together and discard. New batch, new cups. Wear gloves, it will stain the skin

 

[Valv]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

I am doing same job too, thanks mworthan for the link. I was wondering where I could find some foam NOT in a can. The thought of shaking 20 or 30 cans for 1 minute each makes me pass out Besides price is very reasonable, considering each can costs around $ 5.00.<br /><br />Val

 

[SS MAYFLOAT]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

I checked out the RAKA site, did not see anything about the Floatation Foam. Do I need to contact them for more information on this product? Through a local wholesaler I can get an insulating foam. It seems to be pretty dense and tough once cured. I work in the refrigeration trade and have used this product to repair sections of walk-in freezers. (Mainly due to blind tow motor operators) This is also a two part system that comes with the disposable lines and mixer. Once you apply it, It expands immediately which allows you to see exactly how much you have put into the cavity without having to anticipate for expansion. But even at wholesale price this stuff is pricey. It will do about two cubic feet for the price of $27.00. I does have good adhesion qualities since it is designed to adhere to aluminum and stainless. Does anyone know what the price is on the stuff from Raka? And how much does it make? Thanks....

 

[mworthan]

Re: Foam Core Replacement

Here's the URL for the RAKA foam:http://www.raka.com/epoxyacc.htm. Two gals of foam for $68.00. On the other stuff you'll spend a fortune for alot of bells and whistles (mixing nozzles, etc...) that tend to fail anyway (I've used them too.) If there's a problem let me know.