Building the Level-2 Fiberglass Rocket Kit - 1: Centering Ring Eyebolt Installation

Summary

This video from Apogee Rocketry guides viewers through the process of building a level two dual deployment rocket. It starts with the important task of cleaning fiberglass parts to remove residue, followed by an introduction to essential tools and materials needed for assembly. The video emphasizes safety, including wearing particle masks and working in well-ventilated spaces. It covers steps like attaching launch rail buttons, securing screw eyes, and considering engine retention options. The presenter also provides insights on adjusting fitments and tools, ensuring a successful and safe build process.

Takeaways

• 😀 Make sure to wash all fiberglass parts before starting the assembly to remove any residue that could cause skin irritation.
• 😀 Use soapy water and a sponge to clean fiberglass components, ensuring that both the inside and outside are free of fiberglass dust.
• 😀 Always wear safety equipment, such as gloves, safety glasses, and a particle mask when working with fiberglass to avoid skin irritation and inhaling dust.
• 😀 Work in a well-ventilated area like a garage or shed, as the rocket-building process involves materials like epoxy, which can emit strong odors.
• 😀 Gather all necessary tools and materials, such as sandpaper, a screwdriver, epoxy, safety gear, and a drill, before starting the assembly.
• 😀 Consider what type of engine retention system to use for the rocket, as the kit does not include one. Options include standard, flange, or tail cone retainers.
• 😀 When attaching the screw eye to the centering ring, ensure that the hole is drilled in the center and that the screw eye is perpendicular to the edge.
• 😀 Check the fit of rings and parts on the rocket tube before proceeding with assembly. If parts are tight, use sandpaper or a Dremel to adjust the fit.
• 😀 Drill pilot holes first to avoid the drill bit from wandering when working with fiberglass parts, and always ensure the drill bit is properly secured.
• 😀 The level two rocket assembly involves multiple steps and requires careful preparation and attention to safety, cleanliness, and part compatibility.

Q & A

Why is it important to wash the fiberglass parts before starting the rocket assembly?

It is important to wash the fiberglass parts because they may have fiberglass residue from cutting, which can cause skin irritation and breathing issues. Cleaning the parts helps avoid these problems and ensures a cleaner, safer work environment.

What safety equipment should be used during the assembly of the rocket?

Safety equipment includes safety glasses, gloves, a particle mask, and optionally a dust mask for respiratory protection when working with fiberglass and epoxy. These precautions help to avoid injury from debris and fumes.

Why is the assembly recommended to be done in a garage or shed rather than indoors?

The assembly should be done in a garage or shed because fiberglass dust and epoxy fumes can be harmful if inhaled or cause irritation. These materials are best handled in well-ventilated areas to ensure safety.

What is the purpose of the screw eye and its associated hardware?

The screw eye, along with the nut and washer, is used to mount a piece of the rocket's engine mount or other components. It is essential for securing various parts in place during the assembly process.

What type of drill bit is used when drilling into fiberglass?

A quarter-inch drill bit is used for the main drilling, although the video suggests starting with a smaller pilot hole to prevent the drill bit from 'walking' on the surface of the fiberglass.

What are some options for engine retention in the rocket, and how do they differ?

There are several engine retention options: a standard aeropack 54mm retainer, a flange retainer, and a tail cone retainer. The aeropack retainer is the most straightforward, while the flange retainer requires drilling holes into the centering rings, and the tail cone retainer changes the appearance of the rocket by extending outward for easier attachment of the tail cone.

How do you ensure that the screw eye is correctly aligned with the tube?

To ensure correct alignment, the screw eye should be mounted perpendicular to the edge or parallel to the tube’s edge so it slides easily into the rocket's tube. If it doesn’t fit, it may need to be sanded down slightly.

Why is it recommended to check the fit of the rings on the tube?

It’s recommended to check the fit of the rings on the tube to ensure they fit properly without being too tight or too loose. If the rings are tight, they may need to be sanded to fit comfortably, allowing the rocket parts to be assembled without resistance.

What is the role of the Dremel tool in this assembly process?

The Dremel tool is used to speed up the sanding and smoothing process, especially on the inside of the tubes. This helps achieve a better fit for parts like the centering rings and ensures smoother assembly.

What additional resources can viewers access through the Apogee Rocketry website?

Viewers can access additional videos on how to build various rockets, subscribe to the newsletter for updates on new content, and also print out newsletters containing useful rocket building information.