Natural fibers in fiberglass?

[Indymike]

About have the stringers removed from hulland ran into this. Very coarse weave in the fiberglass reinforcing the hull by the stringers. It looks like a natural fiber. Could this be? 1973 Saf T Mate tri hull.<br /><br /> pic of fibers <br /><br />Thanks, <br />Mike

 

[petrolhead]

Re: Natural fibers in fiberglass?

From your photo I'd say that's just heavy woven roving. The only natural fibres you normally find in GRP work are wood or paper.

 

[Sean Riddle]

Re: Natural fibers in fiberglass?

From the pics it looks like you have a heavy fiberglass roving material probably 18-24 oz woven. This fiberglass "woven" roving is pretty much a standard find on older boats 50's-70's especially on stringers , hull and transom. This material has no natural fibers in it that I know of. Hope this helps, RR

 

[Indymike]

Re: Natural fibers in fiberglass?

The reason I ask is it seems that in the voids on this stuff is a black sediment much like rotten wood. Factory did not do a good job of removing air bubbles. Lots of sanding to fair the old surface for new glass.<br /><br />Mike

 

[Sean Riddle]

Re: Natural fibers in fiberglass?

I agree Mike , My Fabuglas had only sections of the lower half of stringers glassed in and everything in between rotted out leaving just the roving shell. It will take a good deal of sanding , thank GOD for power tools . I also had good luck with a good wire brush I could fit onto my drill and wire wheel for grinder to scuff the old glass good.It takes a lot of elbow grease , but you will be glad you put in the extra work for a solid repair when you are through. Good Luck with your project , and keep us posted on your progress.......RR