Once you’ve built one float, the second one should go faster—at least that’s the plan. This chapter covers the starboard float assembly, the final construction details, and the last external infusion shot.

Starboard float assembly

Inside view of the starboard float during assembly, before closing up and completing the internal taping. — This photo gallery (42 images) shows the actual assembly: aligning the halves, de-moulding, supporting the hull at the bulkheads, and taping the seams from the inside.

Detail work on the starboard float: panels, post-curing, lashing tube, carbon reinforcements, and hatch construction. — This photo gallery (50 images) covers the follow-up work: post-curing, making panels, installing the wingnet lashing tube with carbon reinforcements, and building the deck hatches.

The float halves fit exactly together again, which is no surprise anymore. Now that I know what to expect, construction is progressing faster. I’ve replaced the caulking gun for applying filler strips with a simple candy bag with a hole in the tip, which is far more convenient. I also discovered I was reacting to the filler I used before (S-Fair by SP). That has now been replaced by a local product (LG by De IJssel Coatings), and so far I’ve had no issues.

External laminate and vacuum infusion of the starboard float, prepared for a one-shot infusion. — This photo gallery (42 images) documents the final external laminate and the one-shot vacuum infusion, including the bagging details, runner routing, and the resin front progression.

Resin infusion of the second float: one continuous shot, with the resin front climbing exactly as predicted.