Report

57 Foot Plastic Boats

Contract NObs2799

Prepared by

James M. Anderson

Reviewed by

Thomas J. Defoe

A quick reference to the major sections and supporting test documentation found in this report.

Introduction	1
Process Investigations, Chronological Sequence	7
The Merco Method	7
The Open Mold, Hand Layup Process	10
The Wet Layup	10
Layup With Preimpregnated Cloths	11
Wet Layup With Thixotropic Resins	12
Tests, Chronological Sequence	14
3" x 16" Panel Tests	15
Water Transmission Tests	17
5" x 20" Panel Tests	18
Dow Chemical Co. Tests	21
University of Michigan Tests	22
New York Naval Shipyard Tests	23
9" x 60" Panel Tests	25
Basic Design Considerations	28
Local Design Details	30
The Hull Shell	30
The Stem	30
Deck Construction	31
The Keel	31
Local Design Details (continued)	32
Tooling Development	36
Production of MSB-23 (First Boat)	44
Production of ExMSB-23 (Second Boat)	54
Quality Control	66
Materials	74
Problems	98
Conclusions	118

Appendices

Appendix B: Test Data and Load-Deflection Curves	B-1
Appendix C: 57 Foot Plastic Boat - Comparison of Three Building Methods	C-1