[PUP] Let's design the perfect passagemaker - Lets start ....

[Alan]

Aluminum does not rust and does not need to be painted (see Dashew).  It is
a little harder to "fix" anywhere in the world, since the welding skill is
different than steel.  It is not top heavy.  The boat I am building has a
positive righting moment (think that is what it is called).  If knocked over
by "a big one" it will right itself.

Alan Wagner
Tampa

________________________________
o;? o;? o;?

As to Steel or Aluminum:

Pros
----

- Tougher than fiberglass
- Integral tanks are possible (double-hull with tanks in middle)
    + Usually provides for huge fuel capacity
- Easy to fix anywhere in the world (just weld on a patch)
- Possible to manufacture in limited quantities

Cons
----

- Electrolysis. Any two differing metals, that touch, are going to cause
problems.
- Rust
- Sweating
- Can be a permanent maintenance nightmare. Need to inspect constantly
- Can't be painted
- Resale of metal boats is not good. Too many buyers fear them (right or
wrongly - but certainly)
- More expensive than fiberglass in mass production(?)
- Top heavy, if all steel is used .. and, a tricky problem if a
steel/aluminum combination is used

Ken Williams
www.kensblog.com
Sans Souci, Nordhavn 68