CG580 Weekly Update #14

Our week in review: Frame D1 and workspace set up.

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I spent time this week working through some of the finer details of bulkhead D1. In particular I wanted to define the size and orientation of the water tight hatch/door and the cutout size in the plywood. This means we can attach the structural elements that surround and support the opening permanently to the bulkhead structure as we build it. No need to come back later in the project and rework anything. It means the bulkhead can be completely finished on the bench before standing up on the strong back.

Forward face of bulkhead D1.

Aft face of bulkhead D1.

We are opting not to build the forward bunk structure but to install a seagoing toilet instead. This means we can install a hatch/door that can be a little taller than it is wider because it will not need to clear a mattress when opening. Getting in and out will be easier and we can cruise the boat locally but still be able to enter official Class Globe 5.80 events when the opportunities arise. I have found a local company that can supply rectangular hatches with cut out dimensions of 500mm x 700mm or 500mm x 850mm. These images of bulkhead D1 show the larger of the two options. I have a few other things to think about in the space forward of bulkhead D1 that might affect the swing of the hatch but for now this version with the 850mm high hatch option looks like it could work.

Because the hatch has to be fitted on the forward side of bulkhead D1, I will have to deviate from the plans as drawn and rework the gussets holding the framing joints together. This will provide the uniform surface needed to mount the hatch and tidy up the look of the structure on the forward face.

Additional infill blocking under all gussets for bulkhead D1.

Part of this rework will involve installing solid blocking in the gaps underneath the gussets. As drawn, the spaces behind the gussets become small pockets that not only will be tedious to finish but will also, over the long haul, collect dust, grim, possibly mould and the odd insect. The lower ones in particular are great spots for condensation to accumulate and if not thoroughly resin coated and painted are great spot for rot to begin. We will fit the extra infill blocking to all of the bulkheads of our Class Globe 5.80 to streamline both the construction, finishing and maintenance of these structural components.

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Our workspace continues to evolve as we finish walls and ceilings.

See our Project Hours blog post for an up to date overview of our build hours.