Peter Volken Smidt – episode 6 – Electrifying a Contest 30

May 18, 2023
Series

Introduction Robust-MT Marine Technology BV.

He who cannot share cannot multiply! At Robust-MT Marine Technology BV, we believe that success is a combination of factors. Knowledge is just one of them, but it's useless without facilities, resources, capabilities, and so on. For this reason, we will never be complacent about sharing knowledge or providing a platform to someone who deserves it, or when there's useful knowledge to share.

Previous episodes:

1. How it all started

2. Removing the old engine

3. A boat on dry land and removing remaining parts

4. A hole in my hull, what next…

5. Building up in layer thickness

Making a foundation

The old engine was built on a solid foundation for a reason. Solid polyester was connected to the rest of the hull where the propeller shaft protruded. Although the new skin appears sturdy, I think it would be a good idea to distribute the forces exerted on the hull by the new engine over a larger surface area. I considered various options, such as creating a set of hardwood frames to distribute the forces, but ultimately opted for a larger surface area using casting resin (polyurethane).

The big advantage of polyurethane is that it is self-leveling, does not shrink and does not become extremely hot during curing.

I draw and calculate the extent to which I think I'll need reinforcement and discover that with 12 liters of polyurethane, I can create a sufficiently strong foundation to transfer the engine's torsional forces to the rest of the hull. I make a template out of cardboard so I can glue a wooden bulkhead to the hull with epoxy paste as a barrier.

Time to pour the polyurethane. I quickly reread the product specifications and, to my dismay, discover that the product can only be used above 15 degrees Celsius… It's about 10 degrees Celsius outside, and it doesn't look like it's going to warm up anytime soon, even as winter approaches. Luckily, there's still an electric heater sitting idle, so armed with it, I mix the polyurethane with the hardener and pour the foundation. I heat the heater to a safe 16 degrees Celsius, and lo and behold, a few hours later, everything has hardened exactly as I'd hoped.

On to the next step, refreshing the old engine compartment and then installing the peripheral equipment.

About us

Robust-MT Marine Technology BV is located in Monster , on the edge of the water-rich Westland region . Situated in South Holland, between Rotterdam and The Hague, but also near Delft and the North Sea, our showroom and workshop are also located on a main waterway. We also have a mooring on the Haringvliet, near Zeeland, where we can also conduct sea trials. We also collaborate with a renowned yacht builder and shipyard in Woubrugge, near Amsterdam and North Holland. This location also has its own marina, a large crane, and both heated and unheated hangars. In short, no matter how large or small your project, we can provide you with the necessary products and support.

About our products

Looking to buy a new electric motor for your boat or, for example, convert an existing boat to electric propulsion? Our webshop has everything you need to make your project a success. We offer the widest range of electric motors and propulsion systems for recreational boating in the Netherlands, all at the most competitive prices. Our experience with electrifying existing boats sets us apart, guaranteeing that your valuable purchase will be a positive experience. You'll regularly find special offers in webshop , we post our own test reports on our blog , and we also offer complete sets that include a motor, battery, and all additional necessary equipment. Our homepage also features several reviews and ratings from satisfied customers; we'd be happy to add yours.