Boatspeed developed Custom Preg® over a number of years.  It is an “in house computer controlled impregnation system” of applying the resin into the various fibres they employ and was funded in part by and R & D Grant from the Australian Federal Government.  This move to Custom Preg® away from generic prepregs was a deliberate one. Advantages they sought from the initial phases were to enhance core-bonding strength, increase longevity of laminate, tailor resin content and produce laminate properties that were of the highest standard. Boatspeed is able to use “off the shelf” prepregs if the client so desires, but their system of preference is their own. Boatspeed is more than happy to expand on this system with designers and clients if questions arise.

The oven and associated plant allows for vessels to be constructed under total laminate and climate control. The new facility includes safe storage for owner supplied equipment and separate offices for project managers. The large drawing office and boardroom allows for improved client/designer/builder relations. With the increase in size of the facility comes obvious increases in construction capacity, however Boatspeed will continue its personal approach to yacht construction and limit the workload to maintain this ideal. While full size Superyacht construction is planned, the aim is to continue with race yacht builds to maintain Boatspeed’s leading role in technological development.

Laminating Oven/Spray booth Specifications

•  Dimensions 40m Long (can be extended to 55m)x 11m Wide x 7.4m High

•  Temperature Range 10 - 95°C fully monitored

•  Variable Ducted Heating 850k BTU

•  Extraction Capacity 18000m³/hr

•  High Temperature Circulation Fans 6000m³/hr

•  Digital Interfaced Thermocouples 14 Point

•  Refrigeration & Humidity Control 100k BTU

•  Plumbed Vacuum 300m3 Hytor, 660m3 Busch

•  Portable Backup Vacuum 300m3 Hytor

•  Rolling Gantry 10m Span x 6m High