Hot works are almost finished after forming of all bottom plate. As it is our first build of this design the curved hull bottom has been a learning experience for staff.
A commercial strength English wheel was manufactured in-house and worked very well after some initial adjustment.
Forming and fitting the plate, especially where there is a compound curve, is an exacting and time consuming process. Nevertheless, we managed to get the full length on with only four welded joins required.
Dagger board cases were also formed using the English wheel and have been installed in the hulls.
Most interior welding has been completed with the transom area now being finished ready for installation of rudder boxes. Front decks from bow to first join are not welded. This allows the deck to be removed for improved air circulation through the hulls. It also facilitates installation of the front beam parts.
The Nanni 38HP engines were pre-fitted together with shaft log and skeg before that section of bottom plate was installed.
The shaft log and skeg are now being refitted with the bottom plate now on the hull.
Overall progress has been good although slow. We had Khmer New Year holiday and also waited a few weeks for extra aluminum to arrive. The cabin upgrade has added 3 – 4 weeks to this build.
Our main focus is on attention to detail. Learning to form the plate with the English wheel requires some extra time. The client is fine with this so all is good.
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