But, doesn't old wine sometimes age beautifully and show that the 'old techniques' were sometimes superior?

I guess time will tell, huh?

...Cats vs. vee's

..............cats win hands down................

.........assuming money is no object......................

...just don't sniff the corks..you don't know where they have been

A number of other boat builders who use epoxy also "cook" their boats such as Aero Speed as it is said that they gain another 20% in rigidity and strength after post curing. One of the main differences with an autoclave as opposed to traditional methods is that it is cooked/cured under pressure which makes for an even tighter composite than vacuum bagging. Cure temps and times vary based on coring used.....Corecell should be cured at around 110 degrees but for a longer time than high temp Herex or high temp Airex which is rated for up to 160 degrees.
When you read a few studies on composites it makes you think about what your boat is made of and how just the colors in the paint job can affect the temperature of the coring. For instance, black can get up to 135 degrees in the summer.

stupid question but what is "autoclave"

fancy word for oven... cures the lay-up underpressure and heat.... has the potential to make the boat stronger and lighter if done correctly....

thanks

Autoclave = pressure oven. Black or dark blue gelcoat in the Florida sun in August = 196F.

What does that temperature do to the laminates over time? Any studies done on the affects on integrity?

Hence, my love of golf.

A non-postcured polyester laminate is good for 146F. Above that, the resin goes elastic. Luckily, the bottoms are watercooled!