Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Navy - Military - Battleships: => Topic started by: Peter Fitness on July 18, 2009, 03:17:33 am

Title: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 18, 2009, 03:17:33 am
After thinking and talking about it for a long time, and after much research, I have finally started on my attempt at a model of the Armidale Class patrol Boat of the Royal Australian Navy. This class of 14 boats was built by Austal in Western Australia, and the first example, HMAS Armidale, was commissioned in June 2005. Since then Larrakia, Bathurst, Albany, Pirie, Maitland, Ararat, Broome, Bundaberg, Wollongong, Childers, Launceston, Maryborough and Glenelg followed, and all are now in service. They are all named after regional Australian towns or cities, with the exception of Larrakia, which is named after an Aboriginal tribal nation. I have decided to name mine HMAS Bundaberg, for no other reason than my sister and brother-in-law live in that city.

I was very kindly given a general arrangement drawing and a large collection of photos of one of the boats, by Martin doon under, a member of this forum, and model builder extraordinaire. I was also able to obtain some very useful photos from various sources on the internet, where would we be without that resource?

Obtaining frame details proved to be impossible, the builders are unwilling to part with that information, no doubt worried that I, or other modellers, would set up in opposition to them  %) . However, I was able to plot the frames from the drawings at hand and, hopefully, the results will be acceptable. Others will be the judges of that.

I am not going to write a step by step construction log, but will post photos from time to time, so any progress can be seen. I have arrived at a stage where the hull has taken shape, and the photos below will demonstrate what I've achieved so far.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 18, 2009, 03:22:24 am
Just so it's known what I'm aiming at, here are photos of the real thing, and Bundaberg's crest. Bundaberg's pennant number is 91.

I believe that the "Cut and Slash" in the motto on the crest refers to the city of Bundaberg being the hub of a large sugar cane growing area, and the machetes shown were used in the early days to cut the cane.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Proteus on July 18, 2009, 05:12:18 am
What about  HMAS  Hamersley ??  He He  the star of the Navy


http://v2.sea-patrol.com/?page_id=291&g2_itemId=7620

Proteus
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on July 18, 2009, 05:15:19 am
OK Peter.......as you know we have 'Bandit & Vinnie' as the very capable four legged trades assistants of the famed 'bogstandard' from Crewe in UK.........so you may as well enlighten our members with the name of your workshop assistant....the Golden Corgie I mean

Oh BTW...after good ccomments on the Proxxon saw in another thread I lashed out & purchased an FKS/E table saw

Please keep us up to date with your thread of postings & snaps on the Armidale Class PB.....beautiful OZ design  :-)) ....Derek
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on July 18, 2009, 05:24:25 am
What about  HMAS  Hamersley ??  He He  the star of the Navy ...Proteus....you must understand the Navy would only lend an old second hand vessel for the earlier series  >>:-(

Anyway..... O0 I await the next series....  %) as I have had the pleasure of a few circuits of Sydney harbour on an older patrol boat.....  %%.......Derek
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 18, 2009, 06:12:08 am
Derek, the current series, No 3, uses the Armidale class, as did series 2. The Fremantle class was used in the first series and, at the time was still being used by the navy, although they were being progressively withdrawn from service.

Proteus, as you may know, the name Hammersley is fictitious, as is the pennant number 82. The numbers run from 83 to 96.

The workshop supervisor's name is Cassie, and she is usually underfoot or, if the stress of the job gets too much, she can be found relaxing as shown below.  O0

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Proteus on July 18, 2009, 06:14:50 am
Derek you must live in a back water or something we in the UK have suffered series two already, have you got Bluey yet or Water Rats the Best programs on Aus TV according to the adverts ...... %%   :}   ;D


Proteus   O0
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 18, 2009, 06:25:47 am
Proteus, you'll have to forgive Derek, he comes from Wollongong  {-) {-)

Sorry, Derek, I couldn't resist  ;) I actually think the Gong is a nice place............really  O0

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on July 18, 2009, 06:58:19 am
Proteus suggests ...."the Best programs on Aus TV according to the adverts" ......    no sorry .......one of the highest rating television series in OZ is....... :police: "The Bill"   :-))  & I shall be watching the series this evening..... O0 Derek

Opps.......we should also welcome 'Cassie' on board as a junior assistant member.................  {-)  :-)
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 18, 2009, 08:39:46 am
the highest rating television series in OZ is....... :police: "The Bill"   :-))  & I shall be watching the series this evening..... O0 Derek

Oops.......we should also welcome 'Cassie' on board as a junior assistant member.


So will I Derek, I've missed very few episodes in over 25 years, even through the period where everyone was jumping into bed with everyone else, which saw the show lose a lot of popularity. I even have the pilot episode, then called Woodentop, saved on a hard drive  :embarrassed:

and Cassie says "Thanks", at least, I think that's what she said  {-) {-)

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: dougal99 on July 18, 2009, 09:18:00 pm
Peter,

Like the progress so far. Looking forward to the rest of the build.

Cheers

Doug
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Mark47 on July 19, 2009, 08:25:59 am
Nice sleek hull lines. I like that. O0

What are her over all dimensions?

Mark
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: tigertiger on July 19, 2009, 11:16:01 am
Peter

That is a dangerous wicked looking hull.  :-)) :-))

The dog however......? %) %)
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 19, 2009, 11:23:53 pm
What are her over all dimensions?

1120 mm long - 1/50 scale.

TT, the dog's anything but dangerous, she's a great watch dog though, she'll sit and watch anyone  {-)

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 24, 2009, 06:42:25 am
Some steady progress, although making prop shaft and rudder assemblies takes time, and there's not a lot to show for it...well, that's what my wife says  :-) I also built a stand as well, which helps protect the hull strakes from damage. The prop tubes are fixed in, as are the rudder tubes and the rudder servo mount. Next job is to fit the bow thruster, which may have to be mounted a little farther back than it should be, due to the narrow bow section, but I don't think it will be too noticeable unless scrutinised by the rivet counters  %)

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on July 24, 2009, 09:10:35 am
Coming along nicely Peter.  :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: nick_75au on July 24, 2009, 10:51:38 am
Looks good so far, not easy to visualise frames from a 2d set of drawings

On another note as an ex RAN sailor myself I cant help but watch it (Sea Patrol) , and cant help but cringe at the unrealism of it all, groooaaaannnn

A wicked tough looking ship though.

Nick
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: madrob on July 24, 2009, 11:44:50 am
Looking good so far
What wood you used for the hull?
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on July 24, 2009, 01:19:40 pm
as Nick says........"On another note as an ex RAN sailor myself I cant help but watch it (Sea Patrol) , and cant help but cringe at the unrealism of it all, groooaaaannnn"

mmmmmm I understand & respect your comment Nick  <*<.......but hope millions of OZ viewers have watched this series to ensure that we get another Y2010 series ........ O0  & just to keep the salt levels in our blood OK.......Derek  :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 24, 2009, 11:36:02 pm
Madrob, the hull is 1.5 mm ply on 6 mm ply frames.

Nick, I enjoy watching Sea Patrol, but can't help thinking that they get themselves into, and out of, enough trouble, in the most unlikely circumstances, for the entire navy. Perhaps the rest of the RAN  lead very boring lives  :D

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: nick_75au on July 25, 2009, 01:07:19 am
I know I had a relatively boring career, hardly even left Australian waters. We rescued a bunch of very drunk fishermen in a half cabin once.
The show is a bit like Blue Heelers(another show featuring Lisa McCune), a country town that has enough excitement for every country town in Australia :D
Heres to another season of Navy PR, Almost makes me want to rejoin, however the wife would not approve :embarrassed:

Nick

Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: steve pickstock on July 27, 2009, 01:01:22 pm
Bring back Bluey - yes Gods but that man could run!
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Xtian29 on July 27, 2009, 06:43:09 pm
Hello

... but I don't think it will be too noticeable unless scrutinised by the rivet counters ...   

Ooops I mean I'm a rivet counter  :embarrassed:

Prior to read the text I was suprised with the position of the bow thruster because close to the bow the thruster is and more efficient it will be. Then I was suprised and I was thinking : "not efficient bow thruster"  ....

So I've read the text  :embarrassed:

Very nice built for the hull, I'm waiting for the rest...

It's a pity I've never seen this class of patrol boat and I'm like an old man (47) as I'm "stuck" on the Fremantle class

In 2002 at Nouméa - New Caledonia  I've made a visit to HMAS Ipswich  and I still have a base ball cap which was a gift from the CO after a dinner aboard of the FNS Jacques Cartier.  At that time the CO was talking about the Fremantle class as 10 meters too short for Pacific ocean...  It should be ok with the new class.   
 
One of my pics of the Ipswich taken from the Jacques Cartier

(http://nsa07.casimages.com/img/2009/07/27/090727072523499259.jpg) (http://www.casimages.com)
 
My cap ! Please note the PTF 209 instead of FCPB 209 as 209 was the hull number of the future US President JFK patrol boat (a PTF) during WWII   

(http://nsa07.casimages.com/img/2009/07/27/090727072957217629.jpg) (http://www.casimages.com)

I've just noticed that the HMAS Ipswich was used for the TV dramma series Sea Patrol renamed as HMAS Hammersley (pennant number 202 ... No more JFK PTF ... ) I've never seen this dramma in France, even if we have some australian ones.

So I'm waiting for the next step and I supose that your bow thruster will be not so efficient   (http://nsa08.casimages.com/img/2009/07/27/090727073903467454.gif) (http://www.casimages.com)

A+ Xtian  (http://nsa08.casimages.com/img/2009/07/27/090727074051213519.gif) (http://www.casimages.com)

PS : nice dog !   
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 28, 2009, 07:31:45 am
Xtian, the bow thruster is now installed a little further forward than shown in the photo, it was just sitting there loose for "photographic purposes"   :-). It is still not in its correct position, but should be more effective than it would have been if installed where it was in the photo.

I'm in the process of wiring up the ACTion P94 and all the other bits and pieces...thank heaven for Dave Milbourn's wiring diagrams. The hull has been given a coat of resin inside to help waterproof it, prior to fitting all the electrics and the deck. More photos later.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Circlip on July 28, 2009, 01:50:54 pm
In the uk version of the film, JFK's Boat was PT 109,  - must have been rebuiltl.

  Regards  Ian.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Xtian29 on July 28, 2009, 02:29:47 pm
Hello

Humm you are fully right Sherlock Circlip Holmes and there is this official picture with JKF and the PT109  crew ...  So now I have to search for the HMAS Ipswich CO business card to send him a mail  <*<

(http://nsa07.casimages.com/img/2009/07/28/09072803180060089.jpg) (http://www.casimages.com)

Then I have to burn this base ball cap  {:-{ (I still have 2 other Aussie's caps with the Success and the Warramunga  :-) )

A+ Xtian
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 29, 2009, 01:40:17 am
Then I have to burn this base ball cap  {:-{ (I still have 2 other Aussie's caps with the Success and the Warramunga  :-) )

Keep them, Xtian, if they are Aussie they will be worth their weight in gold  O0 {-)

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 14, 2009, 05:57:00 am
I've been wrestling with the mysteries of electrical wiring for the ACTion P94 but, with the help of Dave Milbourn's wiring diagram, I finally managed to install everything. Wonder of wonders, everything works  :o and, best of all, it works as Dave intended  O0 The P94 is an amazing piece of electronic wizardry and, coupled with the bow thruster, should make the boat very manoeuvrable. The props I obtained from George Sitek, the motors are from John Darke, here in Australia, and the couplings are home made affairs, using short lengths of an old speedo cable. The prop tubes and rudders are also home made.

All the working bits are now installed, so it will be on to the rest of the build, including fitting the deck, and then making the superstructure. We are going away for 5 weeks from Monday 24th August, with our caravan, so I will do as much as I can in the days before that time.

Some photos of the electronics below.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Martin (Admin) on August 14, 2009, 08:05:06 am
I like the double rudder set-up, very efficient!   :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on August 14, 2009, 09:00:44 am
Looking good Peter, nice to see you bought Daves goodies for it. I have the P94 and am dying to try it out. It works out of the water anyway. :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 14, 2009, 11:33:37 pm
Mine works well out of the water too, Richard, so I can assume it will work just as well in the water.

Martin, I used a similar twin rudder set up in my Grand Banks cruiser, and it is very efficient. It also has twin motors, but they are running off one ESC, so no independent motor control, but the 2 rudders make it extremely manoeuvrable, and its turning circle is very tight.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: ZIPPY on August 15, 2009, 08:55:35 am
Hi Peter,really do like the Armidale so far.Its a shame Austal dont provide you with anything i have the same problem with my customs vessel but it does make the project more difficult but at the same time i think you do learn a lot more about the boat when you have to examine endless photos.But i think it looks fantastic. :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Voyager on August 15, 2009, 05:33:18 pm
Good idea with the double rudder, that'll never fail!

Keep the pictures coming, it's gonna look the business when it's all done  :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 16, 2009, 12:30:00 am
You've got a good point there Zippy, looking at endless pictures really does give you an appreciation of the boat you're trying to model. It's not too bad with the shape of the hull, as the drawings give a pretty good idea of that shape, but the test will come with the detail, and correct placement of all the individual items. Hopefully, that's where all the photos will come in handy.

Wayne, the rudder set up is quite simple, positive, and very reliable. I file a small flat on the rudder posts for the tiller arm set screw which, when tightened, won't move.

More photos will be forthcoming as the build progresses.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on October 19, 2009, 05:39:42 am
I haven't spent much time on the Armidale class lately, having been away, and I'm about to go to Sydney for over 3 weeks, so that will be another hiatus.

I've managed to fit the deck and make the air intake boxes, all of which is made from styrene sheet. This may upset the purists, but I find styrene easier to work with, especially when making some fittings, as it glues quickly, and has a smooth finish which takes paint well. It also represents steel or aluminium sheet with less preparatory work than wood. I have been careful to rub the styrene down to remove the shine before cutting, giving paint a key. I am going to make the superstructure from the same material.

The hatch visible on the aft deck is not prototypical, but has been added to give access to the rudder linkages, hopefully it will not be too noticeable when all the deck fittings are on, and the model is painted.

There has been recent discussion on scratch building versus kits, and while I definitely prefer scratch, it certainly is much slower, as all fittings have to be fabricated, rather than simply picking them out of a box. However, I'm in no rush, and I enjoy the challenge of building within the limits of my ability.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on October 19, 2009, 06:21:23 am
In OZ we had some good television coverage over the weekend in local news with the first of the class HMAS Armidale patrol vessel being again dispatched to intercept illegal 'boat people' attempting to enter Australian waters & land in the north west of OZ

The vessel is a brilliant design, larger & a far superior sea boat than her predecessors   :-))  O0 .......Derek
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on December 05, 2009, 12:21:54 am
After more than 3 weeks in Sydney doing the grandparent thing, taking the boys to school, cricket, football, swimming etc, then picking them up again, we are glad to be home for a rest. Our son was in New York for 2 weeks on business, so we volunteered to help our daughter-in-law while he was away.

Since returning home, I have managed to spend some time on the patrol boat, hours in fact, but there's not a lot to show for it. I've been making the bulwark supports, there are more than 50 of them, and it is slow work, but the end result looks OK - I think - but I'm only half way there.

My time in the shed is about to suffer severe restrictions, as our family are coming home for Christmas, so I will be otherwise occupied - so my wife tells me  %) I'll make the most of the next 2 weeks  O0

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: tassie48 on March 15, 2010, 01:33:39 am
Peter hows the Armidale boat coming on I had a Fremantle class model in 1/24 and had the stabilizers working in opposite to the rudders really helped with turning her in to the corners when coming about never had the heart to tell the guys how com she handled so well wednesday is hobby night my turn to host the guys over at my place give them some good ideas for model building regards tassie48.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on March 15, 2010, 09:46:22 pm
Hi Tassie, the Armidale's coming along - slowly. I'm in the process of making some deck fittings, which seem to take a lot of time without having much to show at the end.

I have a Model Slipway "Sentinel" customs cutter with working stabilisers which also work opposite to the rudders, and it handles beautifully. (Photo below)

As a warship modeller you may be able to help me regarding the correct hull colour for the Armidale. I did get some info some time ago, but my filing system has let me down, and I can't remember what it was. Going by the photos I have, the colour seems to have a tinge of green in it, do you know what it is? Any help much appreciated.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: hmsantrim on March 16, 2010, 03:15:45 am
hi all the R.A.N. today uses N42 storm grey and N63 pewter for the decks

Australian Standard AS1700 42 Strom Grey.

Australian Standard AS1700 N63 Pewter.

Frank :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on March 16, 2010, 03:25:23 am
Thanks for that Frank  :-))

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on March 16, 2010, 06:42:37 am
Peter, the "boat" is looking good. Would you happen to know where one could get hold of some drawings for the Attack Class Boats?

For interest's sake, HMAS Bombard 99, was the original "star" of the the very first patrol boat series featuring "HMAS Ambush"
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on March 16, 2010, 09:29:54 pm
Hi Ticonderoga, you could try the Naval Historical Society here http://www.navyhistory.org.au/shopping/ship-plans/ (http://www.navyhistory.org.au/shopping/ship-plans/) They show HMAS Attack in their list of available plans.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on March 17, 2010, 04:33:47 am
Peter,

Thanks for the heads up!. My first scratch build project is now decided! I am about to start a semi kit Ticonderoga build, this will take me some time I guess, but on completion, Bombard will be the next ship off the slip...

Thanks again.

Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on March 21, 2010, 12:19:11 am
A few more photos of the small amount of obvious progress I've made. As I mentioned before, a lot of time can be spent on some items without too much to show for it. I've made up the anchor, its windlass and associated pulleys etc., and fitted the stern boarding platform, steps (gangway??) and handrails. I've also started to make the 2 RIBs. I will then have to decide the best way of making the RIB davits, each of which is a small model in its own right as, indeed, are the RIBs themselves.

I know that there are some talented builders out there to whom this sort of stuff is almost second nature but, for me, it's a (very) steep learning curve. However, I'm finding the challenge to be very enjoyable, and will leave the results to be judged by others, but I'm happy - so far.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Martin13 on March 22, 2010, 07:06:47 am
A few more photos of the small amount of obvious progress I've made.

I know that there are some talented builders out there to whom this sort of stuff is almost second nature but, for me, it's a (very) steep learning curve. However, I'm finding the challenge to be very enjoyable, and will leave the results to be judged by others, but I'm happy - so far.

Peter.

Great Job Pete.
I know all about obvious progress on BB - heaps of work and little to show for it - at least on the forum.

Hey, as long as you enjoy it and happy with your work, that's all that matters.
Stuffing up has become second nature for me. I did a beauty a couple of weeks ago on BB and had to ring Bluebird for advice - I'm still trying to fix it >>:-(

Armidale is coming along great and you will be proud showing her off at your local club - Keep up the good work..

Your fellow Aussie

Mdu
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: tassie48 on March 22, 2010, 08:49:23 pm
Hi Peter I noticed that the coamings on the deck are small for the superstructer to fit on experience has taught me that the deck coamings on my models are 30 to 50 mm high my whaler has small coamings and catchs some waves and water actiion,shes due for a refit this winter and larger coamings to be fitted.
We sail on the Derwent River and the wave action is across the deck at times same when we were on the Gold Coast I make all my ships with high coamings now due to the weather I like to sail in. Your ship is looking good heading up your way soon for Gold Coast hoilday try to slip a model into the car for a sail with you haha tassie48.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: riggers24 on March 22, 2010, 10:14:24 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_NehO12_A0&feature=related (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_NehO12_A0&feature=related) sorry there isn't any sound but a few shots of the real thing and a one with sound http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btJE_m7amT4&feature=related (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btJE_m7amT4&feature=related)
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on March 23, 2010, 01:25:23 am
Martin, thanks for the kind words. I am enjoying the build, and the challenge, I'm doing it to the best of my ability, and am pleased with what I've done so far.

Tassie, I understand what you're saying about the coamings, but all my models have coamings of a similar height, and I've never had a problem with water ingress, regardless of weather conditions. I always make the superstructure a fairly firm fit over the coaming so there is a negligible chance of water getting in. Apart from that, we sail on fairly sheltered water, which helps.

Riggers, thanks for the links, there are some good action shots there.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: tassie48 on March 23, 2010, 02:22:12 am
Peter no worries mate just hate to see your model getting wet ,we have some big white caps and rollers down here and I have been caught out a couple of times copped one broadside to the whaler had the whole foredeck under water and the stern 1/4 out of the water got her home comeabout and surfed in lost the harpooner on the fore deck found him and stuck him back on deck.
Had the USS BOGUE CVE9 escort carrier 1/48 scale ducked and dived on the Gold Coast when a huge Rivera went past and 5 foot wake caught the poor carrier single screw coming about one wave rolled the full length of the flight deck about 4 inches of ocean across the deck glad to report all aircraft and 40 ood crew all accounded for would have loved to video the four tidal waves hitting her so dead scared that water will get in some were I used a balloon to encase the reciever tassie48.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on May 23, 2010, 05:54:54 am
Some more progress on the patrol boat. The hull has been primed and painted grey, but the black anti fouling paint has yet to be applied. The Typhoon gun has been made, and temporarily placed in position for the photos, and I've started work on the styrene superstructure.

It's starting to look like a naval ship now, maybe it's the paint, but there's a long way to go before launching day.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: RaaArtyGunner on May 23, 2010, 07:51:29 am
Derek, the current series, No 3, uses the Armidale class, as did series 2. The Fremantle class was used in the first series and, at the time was still being used by the navy, although they were being progressively withdrawn from service.

Proteus, as you may know, the name Hammersley is fictitious, as is the pennant number 82. The numbers run from 83 to 96.

The workshop supervisor's name is Cassie, and she is usually underfoot or, if the stress of the job gets too much, she can be found relaxing as shown below.  O0

Peter.

If my memory serves me correctly, {:-{ way back in time the first "Patrol boat" TV show featured the 1st class namely "Attack class"  :-)) and horrors of horrors it was an all male crew. <:( 8)

Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: RaaArtyGunner on May 23, 2010, 07:57:31 am
Madrob, the hull is 1.5 mm ply on 6 mm ply frames.

Nick, I enjoy watching Sea Patrol, but can't help thinking that they get themselves into, and out of, enough trouble, in the most unlikely circumstances, for the entire navy. Perhaps the rest of the RAN  lead very boring lives  :D

Peter.
Some trivia,  ok2 The Navy has a small team that liaises  :-)) with the series producers to make facilities available for the TV show. The logic is it is good advertising and aids recruitment to the RAN.   O0 8)
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on May 24, 2010, 12:09:31 am

If my memory serves me correctly, {:-{ way back in time the first "Patrol boat" TV show featured the 1st class namely "Attack class"  :-)) and horrors of horrors it was an all male crew. <:( 8)


Quite correct, the boat used was an Attack class. The series was made between 1979 & 1983, and the skipper was played by actor Andrew McFarlane. Fremantle class boats were used in the 2nd and subsequent series.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on May 28, 2010, 04:05:55 am
Hello Peter, the typhoon looks very good. did you make the decal on the front as well?

tico
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: RaaArtyGunner on May 28, 2010, 01:25:41 pm

Hi tassie 48,
Mate, sailing on the Gold Coast, am I correct that you are mixing it with the runabouts on the broadwater.
No wonder you use high coamings.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on May 28, 2010, 11:20:16 pm
Hello Peter, the typhoon looks very good. did you make the decal on the front as well?
tico

Tico, I did make the decal myself using decal paper from Craft Computer paper. It's printed on my inkjet printer, and sprayed with 3 coats of clear acrylic varnish, it then behaves like a normal waterslide decal. I have used this method successfully on 2 other models.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Martin13 on May 28, 2010, 11:33:26 pm
Very nice Pete,

Very talented indeed :-))

Might have to get you to show me how you made those decals..

Martin du
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on May 29, 2010, 01:38:52 pm
Tico, I did make the decal myself using decal paper from Craft Computer paper. It's printed on my inkjet printer, and sprayed with 3 coats of clear acrylic varnish, it then behaves like a normal waterslide decal. I have used this method successfully on 2 other models.

Peter.
Would that be Crafty Computer Paper Peter ?
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on May 29, 2010, 10:39:19 pm
Oops, sorry Richard, a typo, definitely Crafty Computer Paper  :embarrassed:

Martin, if you can use a printer, it's easy enough to do on the right paper. I also use an ancient version of The Print Shop software, which gives a wide range of type faces and effects. An example below.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Martin13 on May 29, 2010, 10:52:56 pm
Oops, sorry Richard, a typo, definitely Crafty Computer Paper  :embarrassed:

Martin, if you can use a printer, it's easy enough to do on the right paper. I also use an ancient version of The Print Shop software, which gives a wide range of type faces and effects. An example below.

Peter.

What is the right paper and where do I get it from. I might assign this project to the missus - she's good on computers.
I need to make up decals for various lockers etc on BB..

Mdu
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on May 30, 2010, 02:17:09 am
What is the right paper and where do I get it from.

Martin, it's ink jet water slide decal paper and I got mine from here http://www.craftycomputerpaper.co.uk/productlist.asp?catid=14&RootCatID=14 (http://www.craftycomputerpaper.co.uk/productlist.asp?catid=14&RootCatID=14)

It works a treat, the main thing is to give it 3 light coats of a spray acrylic clear varnish, as ink jet printer ink is not waterproof. It can then be used as any normal water slide decal.  I use Septone clear, which I bought from our local Super Cheap Auto branch, however, they don't stock Septone any more, instead they have 3M brand, which they claim is better, and slightly cheaper. I haven't tried any of the 3M clear, but their other spray packs are very good.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on May 31, 2010, 01:09:39 am
The main body of the superstructure is finished, after quite a few alterations. Only having a general arrangement drawing creates some problems in certain areas, but the many photos I have of HMAS Armidale makes life much easier. I was worried about getting the curve of the forward part of the superstructure correct but, after a few adjustments I think it looks OK now . Now for the mass of detail, which should keep me occupied for a while  O0.

This is the first scratch built model where I've used styrene sheet, and I'm quite impressed, although I did build a Model Slipway kit of HMCC Sentinel back in 2005. I do like working with wood, but styrene does seem to make some jobs much easier, and given that the Armidale class is mainly built from aluminium, the smooth finish of the styrene should look right.

Some photos below, amid the clutter of my small workshop  :embarrassed: (except for one).

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on May 31, 2010, 10:14:28 am
Nice clean job Peter. I reckon styrene is great, saves all that waitng for glue to dry, filling and rubbing down. :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on June 16, 2010, 07:02:09 am
The black anti fouling paint has been applied to the hull, the pennant numbers are on, and the superstructure has had a coat of grey as well. The mast structure is done, but there are still some bits to be attached, mainly radar and light fittings. I did think of fitting working lights, briefly, but our club does very little night sailing, so I decided against the idea. The next big job will be the 2 RIBs and their davits, and I still have to decide how to make the 2 radomes. I thought of a table tennis ball for the bigger one, but TT balls are too big - any ideas....anyone??? The rather unusual aerial shown in the bottom photo also has to be made - when I work out how  :D The ladders were made from 3/64in brass rod, soldered in a jig. The deck railings will be the next soldering job.

The life raft canisters are made from suitable size dowel, the end grain of the wood was sealed with thin Zap, and this seems to have worked quite well. The bands around the canisters are thin card attached with Zap.

Some photos below.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: tassie48 on June 16, 2010, 07:44:58 am
top job Peter for the radar domes i use the underarm roll on balls cleaned of course on my models or the round domes from the spot light craft shop tassie48.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on June 16, 2010, 08:09:58 am
Very nice job Peter, she is looking just great.

What is your secret for the lovely joins in the Evergreen or Plastruct panels?

Regards,

Tico
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: John W E on June 16, 2010, 09:05:58 am
Hi Peter  she is looking just great.
the boat that is  {-) {-)
this is the way i make the radar domes for my models , it may help you  :-))

aye
john e
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on June 16, 2010, 11:51:39 pm
Thanks for the info Tassie48 and Bluebird.

John, that's a very innovative idea  :-)) and one I will certainly try - thank you.

Tico, some of the joins are less than perfect  :embarrassed: , but I usually use a filler (Exterior Polyfilla) where needed, then sand smooth. As a point of interest, the styrene I am using comes in large sheets, the ones I have are about 1500mm by 900mm, very much cheaper than the A4 size Plastruct or Evergreen sheets.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 10, 2010, 02:21:07 am
The fitting out continues. I have managed to make a reasonable (I think) representation of the circular antenna and its mast, after much trial and error {:-{ The large radome came from a roll on insect repellent cap which, by great good fortune, was exactly the right size and shape. The smaller radome was made on my lathe using pine dowel.

Some of the hand railings have been fitted, but I'm awaiting the arrival of some brass rod before I can make the rest. Some styrene tubing is also in the post, so I can make a start on the 2 RIB's, which are a feature of this class, when that arrives.

I have had the motors running, using FLJ's ACTion Electronics amazing P94 unit, which is an absolute gem  :-)) - thanks, Dave.

I'm hoping to have HMAS Bundaberg finished by mid August, when our club is exhibiting at a Model Railway  :o Expo in Murwillumbah, about 80km north of us here. I will still take it even if it's not quite done, though.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on July 10, 2010, 02:51:22 am
Looking supurb Peter O0......I did note on Thursday evenings screening that the current series is nearing the last episode  >>:-( <*<

One question........during the shooting I understand naturally that the production team use a real Armidale class vessel.....but with the internal filming..... the companion ways seem too wide & the flights of stairs too high?

As an avid fan of the series....I think the best script writers returned from three weeks leave for the last few episodes of the series.......Derek
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 10, 2010, 06:07:08 am
the companion ways seem too wide & the flights of stairs too high?

Derek, I've only just found out the HMAS Bundaberg visited the Gold Coast on 25th June, if I had known, I would have driven up there, it's only an hour or so away  >>:-( I realised after Googling HMAS Bundaberg, and coming up with a website with 82 photos of her visit there. One of the photos shows an internal view which seems very much like those on the TV show.
The "Sea Patrol" web site states that HMAS Broome was used for 42 of the 86 days filming, with HMAS Launceston used for some "pick up" shots.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on July 10, 2010, 10:47:27 am
Excellent job Peter she's looking really good. :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 10, 2010, 11:05:11 pm
Thank you, Richard.

I'll be starting on the Severn life boat as soon as Bundaberg is finished.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: bigfella on July 11, 2010, 12:22:36 pm
Really looks great Peter and I am a big fan of the show.  :-)) :-)) :-)) I had all good intentions of going and taking a look at HMAS Bundaberg when she was here but all the best plans soon take a back seat when you have a new baby in the house.

Regards David
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on July 12, 2010, 12:20:32 pm
She is looking Good Peter, well done.

I am looking forward to receiving the Attack plans form the historical society folks.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 20, 2010, 06:47:41 am
Still more progress, and one "oops" moment  :embarrassed: My hyper critical son in Sydney  ok2 spotted the fact that I had 2 of the radomes positioned the wrong way round, the bigger one should be on the port side, and I had it on the starboard side. I had actually realised it, but thought no one would notice.....WRONG  {:-{ , my son Mark quickly responded to an email, with photos of the build so far, pointing out my error. Fortunately, I was able to rectify the problem without too much trouble.

I have since added the remaining radomes and numerous small aerials, glazed the bridge windows, and attached the 2 radar scanners, The hand railing has been nearly completed, with the exception of some near the 2 yet to be built RIBs. I still have to make suitably sized life rings and the name plates plus crests. However, the end is in sight, although no firm date for sea trials has been set.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on July 20, 2010, 09:44:33 am
Really excellent Peter, nearly at the moment of truth time, which way up will she float ?
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Martin13 on July 20, 2010, 01:12:02 pm
Really nice Pete - really nice :-))

Martindu
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on July 20, 2010, 09:49:00 pm
Excellent model Peter, well done :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 20, 2010, 11:23:20 pm
which way up will she float ?

That's the big question, Richard  O0

Thank you all for the kind comments. HMAS Bundaberg has been the most ambitious modelling project that I have undertaken so far, and I feel that I have extended the boundaries of my modelling abilities with this build. However, looking at other builds on this forum, I still have a long way to go to reach the standards set by many others here.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Tug-Kenny RIP on July 21, 2010, 08:04:22 pm
That's the big question, Richard  O0

Thank you all for the kind comments. HMAS Bundaberg has been the most ambitious modelling project that I have undertaken so far, and I feel that I have extended the boundaries of my modelling abilities with this build. However, looking at other builds on this forum, I still have a long way to go to reach the standards set by many others here.

Peter.

Hi Peter.

I think not.


Well done done on a beautiful job. She looks great. Now OFF to the EXPO with you.   :}

Ken

Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on July 22, 2010, 12:40:04 am
Thanks, Ken, but sometimes photos do not tell the whole story, and can hide mistakes. As I said previously I am happy with it, and I guess that's all that matters O0.

I will be taking Bundaberg to the Model Railway Expo, which may not seem the most appropriate place for a Marine Modelling club to be exhibiting. However, while model railways are the main focus of the Expo, other modelling disciplines are encouraged to attend, and our club's display is always very well received. The Expo is held every 2 years, and attracts quite a large crowd for a country town, with several thousand visitors over the 2 days.

 I have made a start on the 2 RIBs, and have made and attached the ship's nameplates. The lettering on these is meant to be chrome, or perhaps it's polished stainless steel, but I could not obtain any such lettering, so used white instead. I looked at the BECC silver, but that is too grey, so I thought that the white would stand out better. If some more suitable lettering becomes available, I can easily change it.

A photo below, with one of the real HMAS Bundaberg for comparison.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on July 22, 2010, 08:12:28 am
Barrys Model Lettering do silver Peter, though how silver it is I dont know.

http://www.modellettering.com/index.asp
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 01, 2010, 02:43:41 am
The davits are made, and the RIB construction is underway. I have decided not to try and replicate every detail of the davits, as they are too intricate for my ageing eyes and hands  :((, but to try for a reasonable representation. The RIB stern drive unit is also quite complicated so, again, a representation will have to do. Perhaps I could class them as stand (way) off scale  %)

Well, HMAS Bundaberg has finally had her hull wet  :-)) in the test tank (bath), and she floats beautifully with two 6 volt 4.2 Ah batteries on board - right on the waterline  O0 :-)). She will have her maiden voyage some time during this week, to sort out any problems, and then will make her club debut next Sunday, weather permitting. Photos will be taken of the big occasion  :-)

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: dougal99 on August 01, 2010, 08:31:24 am
The davits look just the business. Looks like a lot of work - well done that man. As for exact detail, I take the approach that if you can't see it from a couple of feet away then what's the pont? The overall impression will be fine. But as 'someone' says, you take your choice..

Doug
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on August 01, 2010, 08:45:12 am
Hello Peter, all up to the normal great standard, well done.

My wife and I are booked in for two nights in Murwullimbah looking forward to saying hello and see the boat in the flesh.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 01, 2010, 11:42:41 pm
Hello Peter, all up to the normal great standard, well done.

My wife and I are booked in for two nights in Murwullimbah looking forward to saying hello and see the boat in the flesh.

Thanks Andrew.

Not too long to go now. I will be there, with Bundaberg and a couple of other boats of mine, together with other members of our club. I look forward to talking with you.

Doug, I am taking the same approach to this model. I am trying to have as much detail as is practical, but am not "counting rivets" as they say. The problem is deciding what to have, and what to leave out, as I said before, it is stand way off scale  :-)

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 05, 2010, 05:32:50 am
I took HMAS Bundaberg out for her sea trials a couple of hours ago and, as the younger generation might say, I'm stoked  :-)) She performed flawlessly and really looked the part on the water. The ACTion P94 unit was superb (was there ever any doubt  :o ) thanks Dave, although having all the controls on one stick took a bit of getting used to, but it was great.

I still have a few details to add, including some more railings, the flag, and a few other bits and pieces. I was waiting for some things to arrive from Tower hobbies in the USA before I could finish the job, and the parcel was on my door step when we came back from the lake.

My wife came along for the big moment and took the photos below.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on August 05, 2010, 07:09:21 am
Hey Peter....congratulations.....she looks impressive in the water  :-)) ...I particularly like .jpg P1000392 where we can see the hull pressure at the stern that creates the lower water void & then followed by the stern wave...most life like -  O0 Derek
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: pugwash on August 05, 2010, 07:17:17 am
Peter, she looks a treat on the water - I have enjoyed watching the build.
Whats next??

Geoff
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: FullLeatherJacket on August 05, 2010, 07:32:02 am
Peter
You can always "split" the steering and throttle controls between the two sticks - you're the skipper, after all.
As we quaint East Midlanders would say, "Dunt 'alf look good, duntit?"
FLJ
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 05, 2010, 07:59:42 am
Thanks, Derek. You may have got the impression that I am pleased with the result....and you'd be right  O0

Geoff, thanks for the kind comment. My next one is going to be a "quickie" for my 3 youngest grandsons in Sydney, a pusher tug in case their other model breaks down in the middle of the Lane Cove River %). After that will be a 1/20 scale Severn life boat.

Dave, I was actually thinking of doing just that...I've just got to stop doing so much thinking, it gives me a headache  :D

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on August 05, 2010, 08:16:09 am
Sighs of relief all round Peter, she floated right side up.

Looks really excellent, another success, well done.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Ticonderoga on August 05, 2010, 08:45:15 am
Well done Peter, congratulations.

Andrew
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: rathikrishna on August 05, 2010, 01:51:34 pm
WOOOW....SIR, its an excellent work...will you tell me about the motors used...is it RS 380..?..which battery pack can be used with these motors..?..will you clear my doubts once.?..please..
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Tug-Kenny RIP on August 05, 2010, 08:06:32 pm

            Cor .... you got some power there Guv.        :-))  :-))  :-))

               Lovely job Peter, as usual  ok2

                         
                     Ken

Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 06, 2010, 12:02:02 am
Sighs of relief all round Peter, she floated right side up.
Looks really excellent, another success, well done.
Thank you Richard. Yes, it was a BIG relief that it floated  O0 AND on the waterline  :-))

Thanks to you too, Andrew, and I'll see you in Murwillumbah on the weekend of the 14th and 15th.

Rathikrishna, I used 545 type motors, and the battery is a sealed lead acid (SLA) 6 volt, 7.2 amp hour. This battery, driving 5 blade props, gives all the speed I need, any faster would not be realistic.

Thanks also Ken. Yes, all the power needed  O0

Another part of the build I was very happy with was my home made motor couplings. These were made from lathe turned brass and old car speedo cable - very cheap, quiet, and effective. I can't claim any originality for the idea, as one of our club members did a similar thing and I copied him.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on January 18, 2011, 09:03:13 pm
 A shot of the superstructure bracing on my Armidale especially for brianB6, who was wondering if I had experienced any warping problems with the styrene. I haven't, and it's probably due to the bracing shown.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: brianB6 on January 18, 2011, 10:45:24 pm
Hi Peter
Many thanks for the picture  :-))
Definitely worth 1000 words
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: rathikrishna on January 19, 2011, 05:44:51 am
Oh my God...thanks for the great photographs ...its excellent...
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Trooper63 on April 23, 2011, 11:25:39 am
Peter, this is my first post as a mate has only just pointed out this wonderful forum.   The Armidale is beautiful, I know an ex-skipper of Bundie.  Your replication is truely amazing.  I bought one of Alan's hulls at 1/72 but then realised she was too small for my skill.  I'm generally a 1/24 workboat man.  I have shares in Austal and they still wouldn't offer any hint on plans etc.  Even my contacts couldn't get hold of anything other than the Austal publicity docs.

I may have missed it in the thread here, but where did you get the plans?  Or are they your own drawn up from research?

Anyway, congratulations indeed on a magnificant Model.

Sean
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on April 24, 2011, 11:32:56 am
Thank you for your kind comments, Sean. The plans were obtained from a modeller in Victoria, but are really only enlarged versions of the Austal line drawings. I relied heavily on photographs of the Armidale herself, taken early in her career but, unfortunately, many changes have been made to all the class over the last few years, so my model in not strictly accurate for Bundaberg. However, I'm happy with my model which looks and performs very realistically on the water.

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: brianB6 on April 24, 2011, 11:22:06 pm
Hi Sean
Welcome to the Armidale builders club.
I have sent you a pm.
Besides Allan Pew, Glen Edge (glenedge) and Steve Batcheldor (sjbatch) both have information and Steve makes 1:50 hulls.
There are quite a lot of photos on the net if you search under each boats name.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Trooper63 on May 11, 2011, 02:22:58 pm
Peter et alia,

What does the ACTion P94 unit do?  At the moment I'm thinking it is a mixer for some functions...
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on May 11, 2011, 03:25:33 pm
Peter et alia,

What does the ACTion P94 unit do?  At the moment I'm thinking it is a mixer for some functions...
Gooday Trooper63

The P94 is one of Daves exceptional little gizmos.

I have three of these and they are excellent.

http://www.action-electronics.co.uk/pdfs/P94.pdf
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on October 07, 2011, 05:48:53 am
Peter did you paint the inside of the bridge windows and if so, what with   ?
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: brianB6 on October 07, 2011, 06:08:19 am
Hi Dickie
As Glen pointed out to me, the windows are actually clear but have pull down dark tinted blinds to reduce the glare.
I made the whole of my bridge walls from 2 mm. tinted perspex but it is heavy.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on October 07, 2011, 10:17:20 pm
Peter did you paint the inside of the bridge windows and if so, what with   ?

Richard, I sprayed the inside of the windows with a Tamiya acrylic paint called "Smoke" in an effort to replicate the tinted effect. I didn't realise, until I read brianB6's post, that the "tint" was actually a pull down blind. :embarrassed:

Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: DickyD on October 07, 2011, 10:33:14 pm
Thanks Peter  :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on September 30, 2013, 07:37:51 am
My interest in the Armidale Class Patrol Boats received a big boost recently. A friend of mine, Don, who is also a former teaching colleague of my wife's, has 2 sons in the Royal Australian Navy, one of whom was a former CO of HMAS Glenelg and HMAS Maryborough, both of which are ACPBs. I recently visited Don and took my model of HMAS Bundaberg along to show him. He told me he would be visiting his son, now based in Darwin, and would tell him of my model. While in Darwin, Don's son introduced him to a former CO of Bundaberg who, when he heard of my model, gave Don a replica of the the ship's crest to give to me, together with a copy of the builder's drawings of the vessel. Needless to say I was absolutely thrilled, especially with the plaque, a photo of which is below. Don knew we were due to visit Cairns where 4 of the Armidales are based, including Bundaberg, so he gave me his son's phone number and told me to ring his son (Nick), who may be able to arrange for us to go on board Bundaberg.


I rang Nick, and was told we couldn't have timed our visit to Cairns better, as it was the base's open day the next day. Bundaberg and several other RAN vessels were open for inspection, so I was able to see first hand how good (or otherwise) a job I made of my model. I took many photos, so now a refit is on the schedule to try to bring my model up to current condition. A few days later we were driving past the base, which is called HMAS Cairns, when we saw another ACPB, HMAS Childers, out of the water on a type of sling, obviously for hull maintenance. That afternoon, HMAS Bundaberg left Cairns for Sydney to take part in the 2013 International Fleet Review.


I said to my wife that we could go home now, as my visit was complete - needless to say that didn't go down too well :-) . We stayed for 8 days and had a great time in a lovely tropical city, where the weather was extremely kind to us, going out to the Barrier Reef, as well as a trip on the Kuranda Scenic Railway and back on the Skyway.


Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: B.B on September 30, 2013, 11:01:49 am
Hi Peter, nice shots, they call that the Travel Lift  at Norship Portsmith, we use to tie our trawlers up across the road from there, its a shame ,if I knew you were coming to Cairns we could have met up, as we are still here , we are leaving Tuesday week to slowly make our way back down to Byron Bay (to where its cooler  ok2 ).......
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: BrianB6 on September 30, 2013, 11:03:39 pm
Very envious  :embarrassed:
Maybe I can get there, or Darwin, one day.  O0
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on September 30, 2013, 11:19:01 pm
BB, it was actually cooler in Cairns than here at home :o , but I know that won't last. Hopefully we can catch up once you return to the Bay O0


Brian B6, if you ever get the chance it's well worth it. There's nothing like actually seeing, and being on board, the ship. One thing that surprised me was the below decks area of Bundaberg, it's more like a civilian pleasure craft than a warship. One of the crew told me it's because that builders, Austal, are more used to building civilian vessels. Note the steps instead of ladders.


Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on October 01, 2013, 12:30:35 am
I think no matter how proud we are of our Armidale class patrol boats.........they are going to have a chequered structural history
The cracking has nothing to do with the number of illegal's taken on board.......nor the duty cycle........but comes back to material selection & design
Theories abound........but no amount of arc or gas gouging & rewelding of aluminium structures will eliminate the fatigue problem
Thankfully there is no evidence that the builders are being blamed....they simply provided to their contracted detail..............
The recommended replacements for the Armidale's is of steel hull construction ...........
Question 6. in the following is typically an unintelligent understanding of metallurgical fatigue ....but typical of short thrust media.........  Derek
 
http://search.mywebsearch.com/mywebsearch/redirect.jhtml?searchfor=armidale+patrol+boats+cracking&cb=YK&p2=%5EYK%5Exdm357%5EYY%5Eau&qid=c34fca05c2464e17a6fc2c668c4caad9&n=77fcb88c&ptb=C8A99ED1-0DE1-4953-80EE-6451D916A985&si=454688&pg=GGmain&action=pick&ss=sub&pn=1&st=bar&qs=&pr=GG&tpr=&redirect=mPWsrdz9heamc8iHEhldEbmuFphVDMzh2B7QEq%2B3XL02v80%2BZ%2BY2hNvMLk9lkdaG4l9qe4X4t4OJxroxXemYw75rn4spndtWpbyS3hwMWa1mL%2F%2B7%2FdsTWti%2Fd%2FyXwQkqbxcCqWaOcnosKtYGxGkykFN6Q%2BXCJb0NdVlwqDNwwl3HV%2Bs5XUTmORGguo8nOzMR&ord=7&ct=AR (http://search.mywebsearch.com/mywebsearch/redirect.jhtml?searchfor=armidale+patrol+boats+cracking&cb=YK&p2=%5EYK%5Exdm357%5EYY%5Eau&qid=c34fca05c2464e17a6fc2c668c4caad9&n=77fcb88c&ptb=C8A99ED1-0DE1-4953-80EE-6451D916A985&si=454688&pg=GGmain&action=pick&ss=sub&pn=1&st=bar&qs=&pr=GG&tpr=&redirect=mPWsrdz9heamc8iHEhldEbmuFphVDMzh2B7QEq%2B3XL02v80%2BZ%2BY2hNvMLk9lkdaG4l9qe4X4t4OJxroxXemYw75rn4spndtWpbyS3hwMWa1mL%2F%2B7%2FdsTWti%2Fd%2FyXwQkqbxcCqWaOcnosKtYGxGkykFN6Q%2BXCJb0NdVlwqDNwwl3HV%2Bs5XUTmORGguo8nOzMR&ord=7&ct=AR)&
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: RAAArtyGunner on October 01, 2013, 02:46:27 am
Derek,
 
Do you know anthying about their design origins.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on October 01, 2013, 03:19:18 am
RAAArtyGunner   ...there is very little information commercially available on the ACPB design...although WIKI suggests that it was based upon the Austal Bay class then following onto the Cape class
It is presumed that Austal put a bid on a Specification as provided by the DofD Navy......... that this would have included the thickness & tensile strength of aluminium plate used in the construction + the welding procedures together with the NDT procedures.....all of which would have referenced A&NZ quality Standards
The acceptance of the successive ACPB build of components would have been in accordance with agreed procedures & ultimately signed off by a serving RAN Officer
In the steel {heavy industry} we work with a 4:1 FOS on material yield............
We also have a French Naval Architect [ixion  as a member of MBM........possibly he could comment on the safety factors as used in [aluminium hull construction] in world Naval vessels........ Derek
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on October 01, 2013, 06:20:49 am
I was talking to one of the crew who told me a lot of the problems were brought about by the boats operating in a harsher environment that the one they were designed for, in his words, "we've given them a hammering". I believe that they were originally intended for close in patrol work but, as we all know, they have been busy intercepting illegals in the middle of the ocean. As to the suitability or otherwise of aluminium for hull construction, I'll leave that to the experts, as I have no idea.


Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: RAAArtyGunner on October 01, 2013, 12:06:28 pm
 
Don't know if I am getting my boats mixed up, but had an idea that they were UK designed, with the first one being built in the UK and the remainder out here.
 
 
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on October 01, 2013, 11:16:57 pm
The Armidales were designed and built by Austal in Western Australia.


http://www.austal.com/en/products-and-services/defence-products.aspx (http://www.austal.com/en/products-and-services/defence-products.aspx)


Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: gingyer on October 02, 2013, 01:02:05 am

Don't know if I am getting my boats mixed up, but had an idea that they were UK designed, with the first one being built in the UK and the remainder out here.


Your thinking of the Fremantle class which preceded these :-))
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: RAAArtyGunner on October 02, 2013, 03:03:14 am

Your thinking of the Fremantle class which preceded these :-))

Thank you both, thought I may have had it wrong, they reckon it has to do with age,  O0 O0 but what do they know {-) {-)
 
Actually just testing to see if anyone really knew %) %)
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: B.B on October 03, 2013, 04:08:59 am
Hi there Peter, here is another Armidale Class I took in 2009 of the HMAS Childers  ,and of the Fremantle Class Waranambool back in from sea trials at cairns in 1981, and another of that Class the Wollongong in not so happy events....
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on October 03, 2013, 07:35:31 am
Interesting photos, Brian :-))


Peter.
Title: HMAS Bundaberg - on Fire
Post by: derekwarner on August 11, 2014, 06:55:26 am
Guys.......latest news today from Brisbane Queensland is that HMAS Bundaberg [Pennant #91] has suffered a serious fire during a refit..........

Will post a few links........but fire & aluminium construction are not compatible.......they don't look good ..........

No reports of loss of life at this stage........Derek

https://www.google.com.au/search?q=hmas+bundaberg&biw=1920&bih=929&source=univ&tbm=nws&tbo=u&sa=X&ei=4VroU6yONsmFogTjoICQBg&sqi=2&ved=0CBsQqAI
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Neil on August 11, 2014, 05:53:13 pm
fancy naming a warship after some grog.............hic :D :embarrassed: :embarrassed: :embarrassed:
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Netleyned on August 11, 2014, 06:18:08 pm
Was there a class of sloops named after Swan Lager?

Ned
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 12, 2014, 12:30:17 am
HMAS Bundaberg was in a shipyard in Brisbane for a refit when a fire, probably started by welding sparks, caused terrible damage to the boat. Luckily nobody was seriously hurt, although several workers suffered smoke inhalation. The story was on all the TV news, with special emphasis on the local news where I am at the moment, at Elliott Heads near Bundaberg.


I was lucky enough to go on board Bundaberg during a visit to Cairns, her home base, in September last year, when I took many photos so I could upgrade my model of her. The Navy is waiting on an assessment of the damage to see if she is repairable, but going on the TV news pictures she looks in a bad way. She is built of aluminium, which can burn intensely, and it took a long time for fire crews to bring the blaze under control. The photo below, from Channel 7 Brisbane news, shows the forward superstructure of the boat well ablaze. The other shot is of me on the bridge of Bundaberg during our visit.


Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on August 12, 2014, 12:38:14 am
fancy naming a warship after some grog.............hic :D :embarrassed: :embarrassed: :embarrassed:


I could think of worse things to name it after {-)  Perhaps some Navy personnel will be drinking large amounts of Bundy Rum to drown their sorrows now <:(


Peter.
Title: Re: Armidale Class Patrol Boat
Post by: derekwarner on August 12, 2014, 01:31:40 am
To lose a naval vessel during engagement would be tragic, to lose a naval vessel during a docking is inexcusable

Docking work of our RAN vessels is literally work that is carried out under authority from the Commander of the vessel 

The completion of a refit to a warship is never over until the weight of the paperwork = the dry weight of the vessel

That paperwork includes the multiple delegation of sub authorities to complete the work in accordance with the documents procedures

Considering that the Armidale Class had been in service for some 7+ years.....such refit documents would have been generic, but tried & proven time and time over

The paperwork authorities documentation will be reviewed by the Naval Board of Enquiry, however will be found to be correct with the cause of the fire to have been by human intervention in the non compliance with the nominated procedures

The inexcusable action was preventable and certain personal may be found negligent and disciplined, however the Enquiry will find the vessels Commander responsible for the $30M loss

...[technical experience you ask?.......once appeared before a Rear Admirals review panel over an incident at my work place].........[this was in relation to the first lifting in Australia of the OTO Melara 76 mm gun mount from HMAS Adelaide [FFG Frigate] and electrical arcing/sparking as the mounting lost conductivity with the vessel hull proper  >>:-( ].... [my role here was to abort the lift until experts determined the cause]........Derek