Hi everybody
I understand that carbon and fiberglass have different properties but theoretically what carbon cloth would be equal in strength of 21 oz. fiberglass layer on a kiteboard?
Thanks

It's not so simple.. You've got to play with fiber strength, flex properties, fiber angle placement, ... there's not many who can master it.

Just one thing: if you're going into shaping and laminating, take care of yourself.
For me it resulted in an anaphilactic shock due to exposure to epoxy resin that kept me away from kiteboarding for 2 years.

I'd rather buy a custom board from a good local shaper or I'd go for a serial board (most of which are great boards nowadays)

just my 2 cents.

Hi Kakanala
I am sorry to hear that. Thousands of people shape surfboards and work with fiberglass on a daily basis. I just want to give it a try and hopefully I will not get allergic to this stuff. I can afford buying a decent board or two but I just like the idea of building your own stuff.
cheers

... surfboards are usually laminated with poliester resin, not epoxy resin.

Take care and good luck!

Here are some useful links:
http://www.fibreglast.com/contentpages-fundamentals-41.html
http://www.r-g.de/en/downloads.html

Helped me a lot with theory

I just made a carbon fiber speed board along with an article for KiteWorld mag. (see attached). I found that with the Carbon fiber, I was able to use a much lighter foam and didn't need a stringer. That stuff is stiff and light. He's right that there is definitely an art to laying it up for the right flex characteristics. But it was fun. I highly recommend trying to build your own. Just be careful and use safety gear (gloves and breathing filter).

Nonce thanks for the links
Ken
does wind suck in Miami this summer as bad as it does in Melbourne? Thats probably why you have time to spend on this forum Thanks for the article. Board looks really good. So wat lay up did you use and what was the weight of carbon cloth that you used? thanks,
Kris