Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Framebuilding Posted by: Tim McNaughton on December 11, 1999 at 23:07:14: In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: Framebuilding posted by Jim Kish on September 15, 1997 at 08:47:10:

Message: Bonding a frame is a very difficult process if it is to be done properly. Every component must be cleaned using MEK AR or a similar solvent and then residue must be removed using pure water then dried and then abraded using 50 micron allum oxide propelled by nitrogen then chemically modified to provide a surface which is receptive to the adhesive this must all be carried out within a strict cleanroom : : Another followup: what do you think of frames that are joined by glue and lugs? Are these durable? : Like any construction method, this one can be durable in the hands of a skilled craftsperson, or a complete disaster in the hands of a hack. : : Are they easy to put together? : If you have the proper equipment, yes. : : So other than the obvious consideration of weight, why is a TIG-welded frame better than a lugged, brazed one? : I wouldn't say a TIG welded frame is better, but it will be lighter and cheaper to make. : : Will the TIG-welded frame stand up better in a crash : It won't necessarily do better or worse, but it may fail in a different manner. : or stay in alignment better over time? : The only way a frame goes "out" of alignment is if you crash it bad enough to plastically deform (bend) it. This doesn't have much to do with construction method.