New Infusion/Balken process on Sonics:
 

http://www.offshoreonly.com/forum/sh...threadid=18827

Basically, after they lay the entire hull mold, they encase it in a very think plastic bag. They entire perimeter of the hull is lined with little tiny holes hooked up to PVC pipes, that are hooked to a high pressure suction device. It sucks out the excess resin in the fiberglass, reducing weight and production time. I do not remember the weight reduction numbrs, but if you call the factory or Frank at Offshore Performance, they can fill you in. I bet Dano knows as well. Think of it as Carbon Fiber for fiberglass. Lighter, thinner, and yes, stronger.

I do know this process cuts 20% off of prudcution start to finish time, since so little hull finishing, grinding, sanding, and fitting is needed.

Yes sir, it sure is. Been around for a while, but new to Sonic. Jay tends to stick with what has worked well for a long time, from what I have learned. Hence no plans for a Sonic step. It is nice that Sonic has adopted the vacuum bagging process.

If anyone comes across the new weight of the 358 using this process, please let me know. We did the tour of the Sonic plant when at the Miami show this past February and they discussed with us this new process. So we're anxiously awaiting new weight results on teh 358. Thanks!

East Coast B