We’re Bonding the Spar Skins – with Epoxy
- Jun 1
- 1 min read
At long last, work on the wing spars is moving forward again. The investigations and approvals required for the use of an epoxy adhesive were extensive and ultimately resulted in a 26-page report. Anyone interested in the finer details is welcome to download and study it using the link below.
Last week, we received positive signals from Bern on our report, allowing the suspended work to resume. Naturally, we were already waiting in the wings. The individual plywood panels for the spar skins had previously been joined using a total of 26 scarf joints, creating four strips nearly eight metres long. The front and rear skins are a substantial 8 mm thick and therefore had to be pre-shaped while damp.
For the bonding process, the entire family-and-friends network was mobilised once again. By now, they have all become highly capable adhesive specialists, applying the epoxy with remarkable concentration and precision. The many helping hands were equally indispensable when it came to positioning the long plywood strips onto the spars. Eight metres of plywood develops a mind of its own surprisingly quickly.
Once the two inner skins had been bonded in place, it was time for the final inspection before closing the spar. This was carried out by CAA-approved wood aircraft construction expert Christian Nyffeler.
His verdict was pleasingly uneventful:
Flawless – the spars can be closed.
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