05-13-2011, 06:57 AM
I have had some success, and can achieve a not-entirely mathematical curve with a dome depth of 2 3/4" (about 7cm). Because the wood is not uniformly strong/weak, there are a few slightly high or slightly low spots. The dark grain appears to be harder, and bends less.
One I was able to get a horrid shape, but 4" (10cm) depth. The wood broke in two or three places. Can't bend it that far, period. To do that deep of a dish, it would be necessary to build a form, and lay up strips of plywood the way the originals did. I don't think it could be done from plywood without having a steamer that could hold the sheet, and a press that can work with wood that hot...basically impossible for the normal shop. A laid up strip shield is possible.
I'll see what our other guys think of the shallower dome. It looks better to the eye than just flat plywood, I think. Pictures someday.
I have bosses to make, too, so it might be a while.
One I was able to get a horrid shape, but 4" (10cm) depth. The wood broke in two or three places. Can't bend it that far, period. To do that deep of a dish, it would be necessary to build a form, and lay up strips of plywood the way the originals did. I don't think it could be done from plywood without having a steamer that could hold the sheet, and a press that can work with wood that hot...basically impossible for the normal shop. A laid up strip shield is possible.
I'll see what our other guys think of the shallower dome. It looks better to the eye than just flat plywood, I think. Pictures someday.
I have bosses to make, too, so it might be a while.
M. Demetrius Abicio
(David Wills)
Saepe veritas est dura.
(David Wills)
Saepe veritas est dura.
