Restoration of Hull 731- Carrier, MG (Aust) Mortar Carrying

Tony Wheeler · #1 14-12-14, 12:25

I had much the same thoughts Jack. This kind of futuristic technology certainly takes all the romance out of restoration. I think for that reason it will remain a last resort for serious restorers. However it could pose issues for the restoration community in general. For example, what happens if it gets to the stage where you can "print" a whole BGC? Or a Sherman tank? Sounds laughable, but we've already seen guns "printed" so it's really just a question of scale. Perhaps the day will come when MV's need some kind of Certificate of Authenticity to participate in events, particularly commemorative events. I believe it's this kind of regulatory/compliance challenge which has thus far delayed widespread introduction of this technology.

jack neville · #2 14-12-14, 12:40

The only barrier so far is cost. And it's getting cheaper by the day. Tiger Tank anyone?

Darrin Wright · #3 14-12-14, 22:52

Although not done by a 3D printer, I heard of a Tiger tank project done in Poland (I think) due to close access to originals for patterns and templates, high unemployment and lots of infrastructure not being used. So anything is possible.

I think 3D printers & the manufacture of parts will start to become more cheaper and it may bring down the cost of original parts, there are some people out there sitting on rare/expensive parts waiting to sell them for top dollar. When the cost of printing the part is cheaper, then people will go with that option, and that may/should bring down the cost of parts.

A mate and I are looking at 3D printing of the rectangular 1941 BGC hull data plates as we have an excellent sample from hull VR414 to copy. So stay tuned on that one.

Dale Jordan · #4 14-12-14, 23:32

Excellent news with the data plates , A lot of carrier owners are missing them , will you make masters with 1941 - 1942 etc with a blank section that can be stamped and then cast in metal ?

Tony Mathers · #5 15-12-14, 00:32

Quote:

Originally Posted by Darrin Wright

Although not done by a 3D printer, I heard of a Tiger tank project done in Poland (I think) due to close access to originals for patterns and templates, high unemployment and lots of infrastructure not being used. So anything is possible.

It was done on the volga (near stalingrad)

http://izismile.com/2012/02/14/handc...s_1_video.html

Originally done for the film "White Tiger" but not ready in time alas....

Darrin Wright · #6 17-12-14, 21:42

Have commenced sewing the first of the straps into the hull.
Borrowed a sail needle and heavy duty thread from a friend.
Have only sewed 1 strap so far, the RHR water can strap, and now have a sore thumb from pushing the needle through. Took about 40min to get the sore thumb.
Sewed a square pattern with a cross through it onto the strap.

Phil Waterman · #7 18-12-14, 00:45

Hi Darrin

Here is the tool you need for small strap projects.

http://www.sailmakerssupply.com/product/1012/23

Check with a good sailing supply company.

Also good for canvas repair, seat covers etc. If you really want to make the stitching look good, lay it out and mark the lines and individual stitches with sewing chalk.

Cheers Phil

Grant Bowker · #8 18-12-14, 01:15

Similar sewing awls are also sold at leatherwork shops. Or if you can't find it locally http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/pag...=1,43456,50700
http://zelikovitz.com/courses.html?p...ord=sewing+awl
http://zelikovitz.com/courses.html?p...ord=sewing+awl
But there has to be someone closer to you who sells these to keep the post to a reasonable level.