Saturday 3 December 2011

PLANKING

Each individual plank (majèr) was cut-out from the larch dimensional lumber - these should have a minimum number of knots and should be at least 16'5" long to avoid the need to join planks lengthwise. A very important feature of the dimensional lumber is the width - we needed a broader lumber, since the boat sides were curved and the planks were therefore cut in the arc. The most intricate stage of plank-making was their bending using propane burner. Larch is a very elastic wood and tends to return to its initial position, so we had to bend it 50% excessively. However, they weren't required to remain curved to the final extent - when there were a need we forced the plank to remain in a desired shape with F clamps.

Marking lines on larch dimensional lumber for cutting the planks.

Cutting-out the plank with the electric chain saw.

Planing till the marks.

Correction of the thickness on the portable thicknesser.

Lowering the inner central part of the plank to fit perfectly on the bilge timber curvature.

Soaking the planks in the water basin.

Bending the plank with propane burner and F clamps.

Positioning the plank on its place for screwing.

Method of filling screw holes with wooden pegs (1-2-3).

View on the structure after installing the third pair of planks.

View on the structure after installing the fifth pair of planks.

Method of joining floor planks to the side (bilge) planks and floor timbers.

Planing the excessive wood.