Plastic pipe for WTC & Ballast tank

[phph]

Does anyone know where I can source suitable pipe & end caps to build a WTC (Similar to Sheerline etc) for my next project, 4 inch pipe doesnt seem to be a problem its suitable end caps that I'm struggling with.

[Guest]

Cut them out of flat

Cut them out of flat acrylic or polycarbonate sheet.

If you have access to a lathe, you can machine a step into the endcap to locate the o-ring seal. If you haven't then cut out a smaller diameter disc and glue this to the larger disc, and you have virtually the same thing.

Some people mould their own endcaps. You will need to amke a master (using the techniques just described) take a rubber mould off of this, then cast the caps using polyurethane resin.

With the latter idea, you can cast as many endcaps as you like.

Andy

[phph]

I had a feeling this

I had a feeling this was the answer, I was hoping something suitable could be found in a plumbers merchants, I think I'll try casting if a prototype one works, then I can retro fit this system into all my subs.

[scott t]

You might find plugs that

You might find plugs that plumbers use to pressure test pipe.
The one I saw fit inside the pipe and expanded with some type of screw device.
Though this might take up important realestate and dosen't give you the ability to exit shafts and
rods you might need.

Scott

[fung pang]

need no lathe!
try this>>>>>
end cap



need no lathe!
try this>>>>>
end cap


fung pang

[phph]

fung pang, like your caps!,

fung pang, like your caps!, I will give your ideas a go at the weekend, although I might cast them in resin & use your method for seating an O ring.

[tmsmalley]

http://home.att.net/~cheap-sub/drilpress.jpg

Good stuff FP. I am



Good stuff FP. I am a little confused as to how you use the spacers on the drill press - I don't see them in the photo.

T

[ogopogo]

put spacers on the cutter

put spacers on the cutter shaft to control the depth of penetration - the same effect as a shollower cutting wheel ...

[nelix6030]

If this is your first

If this is your first sub and you really want to scratch build a WTC and Ballast tank, I would suggest starting with a WTC similiar to what Jim Butt has on his site. Its not pretty but it will help you get a sub in the water pretty fast. I attempted to build my first WTC and of course I can do it just as good as the guys that have building them for years ..... HA Right, after 3 attempts that didn't keep things very dry, I got frustrated and walked away from this hobby for over a year. I then spotted a gray, not so pretty WTC on Jim Butts site and built one like his. In a short time I had my Sub lurking in the local lake and now I am hooked. I now have a very nice running sub that works great and my interest in this hobby is going through the roof.

Now with a better understanding of how these things work, I am starting on my Type IX u-boat and I plan to build a nice lexan tube WTC with end caps.

Just some friendly advice from a novice.

Kyle

[Guest]

One thing I forgot. If

One thing I forgot. If you want to buy some end caps, this guy sells them-

http://www.mikessubworks.com

Andy