has anyone used aluminumboatplans.com

[bigjimmy]

i'm trying to find a little dinghy plan to build with my son. something like a quintrex explorer 390. i would be building it out of HPDE. Explorer https://www.quintrex.com.au/Aluminium-Boat-Range/Explorer

has anyone used the linked company? Homepage - Aluminum Boat Plans https://aluminumboatplans.com/

 

[gonzo]

If you are planning to build in HPDE plans for aluminum will not work for you. They are completely different materials.

 

[bigjimmy]

hi Gonzo, that's really good to hear.
What am i missing? it's only a 16ft'r so i was thinking of swapping out the 2mm for 8mm HPDE and 12mm for the hull. Why do you think it won't work? have you built with it?

 

[gonzo]

I would not build a HDPE boat from aluminum plans. The material properties are very different, so the framing, scantlings, structural reinforcements, etc. are going to be also different. You should look for plans for the material of your choice. What is the reason for your choice? Do you think welding HDPE is easier? Keep in mind that the boat will be much heavier.

 

[bigjimmy]

Hi Gonzo, I've made boats out of fiberglass and aluminium, now i'm going to make one out of HPDE. I understand the bracing requirements, how to structurally build a boat, floor, stringers etc. I just would like a hull shape for a small dinghy that i can then adjust to suit and have some fun building with my son.

Have you made a boat with HPDE?