RE: [ATM] Carbon Fiber for Spider Vanes

["Peter" <peter@kitgear.com>]

Hi,

This discussion regarding carbon fiber and composite techniques is one of
the most interesting discussions on his subject I have seen in quite a
while. Thank you to everyone who has participated so far and especially
Shane for sharing some great information and bringing lots of experience
along these lines to this group.

I'd like to address the issue of who is capable of working with composites
and who can afford them. I'll start by letting the cat out of the bag... I'm
working on a 16" f/5.25 scope, which will be less than 50lbs and mostly made
of composites. At this stage I will be way, way below my target weight so I
have chosen purposely added Aluminum to increase the mass of lower end
components such as my ground board and mirror box.

I am borrowing techniques from model aircraft makers to make very low weight
fiberglass and foam core components. I made some initial test strips using
these techniques and I was absolutely amazed (and honestly SHOCKED) how
stiff and light the parts were. I actually took my test strips into my place
of work and showed them to our mechanical designers to see the look of
surprise on their faces. The cost of fiberglass is significantly below
carbon fiber yet the performance is excellent. Yes it does not have the
extreme material properties of CF but man is it good. Some of you ATMers
have already made parts like this. I know because you inspired me!

To date I have made both upper cage rings, the altitude bearings and as of
today the spider completely out of composites. Still to go is the rocker
box. I will post the completed project on my web site in a few months once I
am complete.

I guess the message which needs to get out is that I hope more people will
start experimenting with new methods of making scopes in an effort to reduce
mass, increase performance and ultimately increase the usability of their
scopes. Who the heck wants to haul around a 100lb scope anyway?


Regards,


Peter

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