Hello.
First post.
I was advised that there might be a few tin bashers on this site. I used to rebuild the average Piper/Cessna stuff for about 5 years after school before moving on to pastures new but have kept an interest in metalwork. I was hoping that I could find some kind souls in the area of Aero skin work who could give me some aero-specific advice.
I make car bodywork but now could do with some help with making some aircraft cowlings. I’m about 1/4 mile west of St Athan and have a workshop set up to repair an old wood/fabric monstrosity but before making new cowlings I’d like to know what material is generally used and where to get it. I’m guessing that 1050 sheet is not up to the job and that perhaps something in the 3000-series is the best bet. If so, where can it be found?
Are there any ex-MOD metalworkers still in the St Athan area?
Many thanks
Rob
By: pat1968 - 12th September 2013 at 02:54
I think L59 is 3103. Not easy to come by round Cardiff/Bridgend.
Anyone can make a shape out of metal with a hammer. What I need to learn is how to make the RIGHT shape. :o)
You need to find someone who has access to something called ihs edsu materials data handbook it will give a modern equivalent material for obsolete specifications. I will try to find out what the nearest equivalents are.
By: ZRX61 - 11th September 2013 at 17:57
Another couple of links for ya:
www.tinmantech.com
By: cardiffrob - 11th September 2013 at 11:26
I think L59 is 3103. Not easy to come by round Cardiff/Bridgend.
Anyone can make a shape out of metal with a hammer. What I need to learn is how to make the RIGHT shape. :o)
By: Bruce - 11th September 2013 at 10:10
Depends what you need – I don’t think you need any tips on metal shaping by the looks of it.
BS L59 is the usual stuff for making cowlings, if they are made of multiple parts and welded – and you can wheel out the welds with care. Don’t know what that translates to in US spec.
Bruce
By: cardiffrob - 11th September 2013 at 10:04
Thanks guys.
Meanwhile, if anyone here has any further tips then I’d welcome them.
Rob
(Here is one I made earlier!)
By: TonyT - 10th September 2013 at 22:59
You can see an example of his work here
http://www.pprune.org/engineers-technicians/523194-making-alloy-cowlings-uk.html#post8041442
By: pat1968 - 10th September 2013 at 22:14
Hi Cardiffrob, you are really on the wrong forum, i am sure there are a few panel beaters on the forum but if you want to learn about sheet metalwork you need to go to http://www.allmetalshaping.com/ they have an aircraft section and you will get plenty of help and advice. You may even be able to find someone in your area who can help. in the mean time have a look at lazzemetalshaping on youtube. If you can shape steel you can shape aluminium it gives a lot more so has a different feel but the principles are the same. Best wishes Pat
By: DragonRapide - 10th September 2013 at 20:34
Welcome to the Forum!
Sorry, other than welcoming you, I am of no help though… I’m sure there are a number of people here with the skills and knowledge you are looking for, and I hope you get a response soon!
Good luck
DR
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September 10, 2013 at 5:44 pm