Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

Repairing bottom deck of a jetski hull (Carbonfiber)

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic10018.aspx

By Christian_83 - 3/4/2014 11:56:16 AM

Hi guys.
Ive bought a used jetski hull, its made from carbon fiber with epoxy and resin infusion and vacuum bagging.
The hull from new, comes out in a black epoxy primer and then got painted, i guess gray primer and white base and final pearl white.
When i got it i noticed it had a little crack in the underside, i didn't appear of much and still don't know how much is affected. The other side of the hull (where the crack is, is closed, so i cannot "get my hands on that side") but i can see the other side of the spot and there is no sign of crack go damage, so the crack is not fully throughout the lamination.
So my question is, how should this be repaired for the best finish and result (strength and finish) the bottom will be painted afterwards.
Ive watched this video a few times http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xm2Ezo70vFI
And one option I'm thinking about it sanding down the area further to see no more cracks, and the build it up with a few new layers of carbon (to reach the finished level on the hull underside) Applaying epoxy, stretch out some release film and put some sands bags on the area, to squese out air and resin.
Ive uploaded af few pictures of the spot I've sanded down a bit.
And a picture of a new sprayed hull, marking the place with a red circle.
How you guys have some tips and advice for me Smile 
Cheers Christian, Denmark
http://www.talkcomposites.com/Uploads/Images/42d47915-30b5-4460-9ffd-c919.JPG
http://www.talkcomposites.com/Uploads/Images/593b0977-7ed2-4136-a319-36e7.JPG
http://www.talkcomposites.com/Uploads/Images/55bd88bc-60b8-4b32-a3bf-f0b1.JPG
http://www.talkcomposites.com/Uploads/Images/fd799f7e-c459-4b23-8506-73e3.jpg
By Warren (Staff) - 3/5/2014 2:44:19 PM

I would perform the repair exactly as in the video. Several patches larger than the damaged area can be laid ontop.  If you are worried about a ridge, you can make each patch smaller so its easier to feather the edges in when you finally sand it smooth.

Release film is good for the job and you should be able to squeeze and smooth it by hand, however some small weight wont hurt it.

Make sure you sand back the whole area the patch is going onto, both to ensure a good bond, and also to make sure there is no unseen damage.