Re: [CR]How about an easier way to make a lugged frame? frame builders?

(Example: Framebuilders:Doug Fattic)

From: "Steve Maas" <smaas@nonlintec.com>
Cc: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: Re: [CR]How about an easier way to make a lugged frame? frame builders?
References: <43.153e67de.2b1d6ff8@aol.com>
Date: Mon, 02 Dec 2002 19:57:06 -0800

I know nothing about these materials. However, I would ask a few questions before using them. For example,

1. Is it really "idiot proof"? How hard is it to use the stuff properly? How tolerant of errors in use?

2. How does it age? Will it retain its strength, and other mechanical characteristics, over time?

3. Is it sensitive to solvents, paints, or other chemicals that might be used on the frame over its lifetime? Or other things, like sunlight for example? Or even oxygen or water, for that matter?

I'm sure that some of the mechanical engineers on the list can come up with other questions. I'm an electrical engineer, so I can't imagine all the nasty things that could happen to such materials.

Auto body repair is not the same as joining a set of tubes by butting them together, or using flanges. The material might be fine for cars, but not for bikes. It all depends; the stuff might be great. Or, maybe not. We all know how well welding and brazing work, because there are years of experience with it; but we don't really know not how well the new stuff works, over the long term, and in a variety of situations. There is a lot to be said for things that you know, whatever their limitations, compared to something new that may not be completely understood. A saying that fits here: better a devil you know than one you don't.

Steve Maas Long Beach, California

Wornoutguy@aol.com wrote:
> I have been reading the discussion of if a lugged frame is still OK for pro
> level racing. I came up with some thoughts. The newer tig welded and
> aluminum frames are quicker and easier to assemble than a lugged frame
> (true)? I have a question for the frame builders out there. 3M and some
> other manufacturers are making a metal to metal adhesive for auto body
> repair. You can use on a structural member on a unibody car such as a
> quarter panel, a roof, a door skin and it is as strong as a weld. These
> parts take quite a load and are stressed as you drive. Could we put bonding
> adhesive between the tubes and the lugs making it quick, inexpensive and
> idiot proof (compared to welding) no heat would mean stronger tubes -- who
> wants to give it a try? Sam DiBartolomeo Riverside, CA
>
>
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