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Author Topic: Finishing balsa  (Read 3418 times)

AlisterL

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Finishing balsa
« on: April 03, 2011, 10:54:43 pm »

I know, same old topic, but a different angle I hope.

The question is, when plans or instructions are saying to cover balsa with tissue and dope, what is the reason?
Is it merely to hide the grain? Or is it to add strength? Or both? Something else?

Given the trouble I seem to be having sourcing tissue for my Hibbard build (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=28762.0), understanding why I might want to use tissue seems to be reasonable.
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Alister

CF-FZG

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Re: Finishing balsa
« Reply #1 on: April 03, 2011, 11:11:49 pm »

If you want tissue, try http://www.rcworld.co.uk/acatalog/Poly_C.html

As to why, it provides a lightweight covering to protect the balsa and provide a good surface for painting.


Mark
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AlisterL

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Re: Finishing balsa
« Reply #2 on: April 03, 2011, 11:28:46 pm »

Thanks Mark.

When you say "protect the balsa" do you mean that the tissue acts a little like fibre glass cloth does and adds some impact resistance? I understand about the good surface for painting bit :)
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Alister

CF-FZG

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Re: Finishing balsa
« Reply #3 on: April 04, 2011, 12:11:37 am »

Alister,

Yes, it does provide some 'scuff' resistance but if you want better protection you can use Poly-C instead of dope with it, (available from the same page), or a lightweight glass cloth.  Looking at your build I'd say that a heavyweight tissue would be fine.

Poly-C is a water based polyurethane varnish so would still need 'sealing' before you put the varnish on to it, a couple of coats of sanding sealer is usually sufficient but I'd advise trying it out on a piece of scrap balsa the same thickness first.


Mark
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AlisterL

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Re: Finishing balsa
« Reply #4 on: April 04, 2011, 12:21:44 am »

Thanks Mark.
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Alister

LarryW

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Re: Finishing balsa
« Reply #5 on: April 04, 2011, 09:44:15 am »

hi , for  tissue source paper hot air lanterns from £1 shops tissue is like the old model span  O0 LARRY W...
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Hobie21

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Re: Finishing balsa
« Reply #6 on: April 04, 2011, 05:13:07 pm »

I have used the method of fabric softener and warm water for bending plywood with no derogatory results for years  O0
Ken, in Somerset
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AlisterL

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Re: Finishing balsa
« Reply #7 on: April 04, 2011, 10:34:07 pm »

Thanks guys.
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Alister
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