cat track

[havocdru]

My new press is finished. The only thing left is to make the cat track. My old one I used 1x1 steel 1/16 wall. This one I plan on using 3/4x3/4 al. I have a great deal(free) on some 1/16 wall. Is anyone using a wall thickness this small with aluminum tubing? I'm concerned it may not hold up. Any suggestions??!

[Richuk]

1/16th is fine - I'm working at around 60 psi.

If you have built a heated press. I'd have a think about whether it will be enough to allow the cat-track to function as a heat sink and keep the hose cool - or a least within temp. 1/16th will need further insulation between the track and the hose IMHO.

[havocdru]

I was thinking masonite. Not sure though.

[Dr. Delam]

Richuk, what are your concerns with keeping the hose cool? Or are you just thinking in terms of keeping the materials hot?

[falls]

some hoses have a working temperature rating, especially the blue/red pvc hose.
My red PVC hose is meant to have an upper heat rating of 70C, which is pretty much on what I press at (actually a bit underrated). So far so good, but thinking seriously about upgrading to actual fire hose that is rated over 100C.

[Dr. Delam]

Gotcha. I guess I never even thought about it since I use actual fire hose which can withstand quite a bit hotter than my pressing temp.

[havocdru]

I was more concerned about keeping the heat in the layup. I'm using firehose, supply line, so heating the hose is not a problem. Anyway got the 1/16 wall material so I'm going to build the track today.