25 July 2024 Fillets all day

On 25 July 2024, Sven Yrvind demonstrates his meticulous approach to constructing the interior of his IR (Independence River) boat using plywood. This video provides a comprehensive look into his fettling process and preparing the bottom of the vessel.

Fetting Process

In this episode, Sven focuses on fettling all day. Fettling is a critical step in boat construction where excess material is removed to achieve the desired shape. It involves careful sanding and trimming to ensure a smooth and even surface.

Preparing the Bottom

Sven then moves on to preparing the bottom of his IR boat. He explains how one piece of plywood takes more than 3 meters to cover it properly. In the process, he faces some challenges due to limited visibility in certain areas of the hull.

“It’s a bit difficult down here in the bottom because I have to put my head inside to see, and often only one eye gets there,” says Sven. He adds that he could potentially do more with better visibility on the other side.

Installing Wood Strips

Once the bottom is prepared, Sven plans to install wood strips like stringers for added strength. He also reveals his intention to create a double-bottom design similar to that in his previous boat, which had batteries inside.

“It’s going to be a bit higher up about the water, and there’ll be plenty of water like up to about 200 liters,” shares Sven. He is eager to test whether this system will work with B (likely referring to batteries).

Dimensions and Capacity

The IR boat, according to Sven’s calculations, has dimensions that allow it to hold about 12,000 milliliters of water. He emphasizes that this capacity is a good thing compared to using lead as ballast since water doesn’t sink and is more buoyant.

Conclusion

Sven Yrvind’s meticulous process of constructing his IR boat showcases his deep understanding and expertise in building efficient, lightweight boats. By carefully selecting materials and implementing innovative design features like the double-bottom for extra buoyancy, he pushes the boundaries of traditional boatbuilding techniques.

“A good thing with water is that it doesn’t sink, what doesn’t sink that sinks,” reflects Sven on his choice of using water as ballast instead of lead. This thoughtful approach not only ensures optimal buoyancy but also contributes to the overall sustainability and eco-friendliness of the vessel.