Bulkhead doubt

[albertobf109]

Hi all,

I'll try to build my first wooden ship (not my first plastic model kit) and I see the Bulkhead has a slight curvature, but there is very light. Would it be advisable to straighten it or is very small is not necessary? In case I need to straighten, with water?

 

Thanks,

[Tadeusz43]

Hi,

This element of ship structure it is keel, bulkheads are installed traversal in notches.

Straighten of keel is essential for hull shape of model.

How to reach it is explained here :

http://modelshipworld.com/index.php/topic/10323-keel-question/

 

Tadeusz 

 

My models:

From kits

Vasa, HMS Victory, Le Solei Royale, Friesland

From scratch

HMS Warrior 1860, Esplanade, Grosse Yacht

Norman’s ship, HMS Speedy, La Royale

Peter von Danzig

Polacca XVII cent.

Current project:

SS Savannah 1818

[S.Coleman]

I would say yes. That bulkhead you are showing us is like the spine, backbone of the ship. It is absolutely nessercery to get this straight. Soaking the wood and clamping it down on a flat surface would be ideal. Although as you say it's only a slight curve it will affect certain construction stages later on. Good luck

[albertobf109]

In Model Shipways Instruction Manual (I'm building Us Brig Syren) says Bulkhead former. I thought bulkhead in english was keel.

Thank you very much Tadeusz43 and S.Coleman, I will follow your advice.

 

Regards from Spain,

[trippwj]

Terminology on these things is odd! Not really a keel (although the bottom is intended to simulate the keel). Bulkhead former sounds much better!

 

You may also be able to keep the bend out by using some type of keel clamp (Amati sells one, and there are numerous examples of building boards on the forum that could be useful). Even after clamping flat the bend could reassert itself, hence trying to hold it square while adding bulkheads and planking.

 

Good luck!

[albertobf109]

Thank you Trippwj for the clarification, I will do so.

 

Regards,