Recently, we were privileged to meet a team of engineers in the process of designing and building a hovercraft.  Their goal was to design and build a working hovercraft, successfully navigate a challenging test course and make it better than at least a dozen competitors.  They also have to develop a detailed business plan and present it to a committee who would determine who gets the nod.... and the prize.  Does this sound like another day at the office or what?

Mathew Goertzen, Justin Ballantyne, Nick Nault, Shawn Singh, Judy Cortez and Chris Ljungberg are students at Windsor Park High  School in Winnipeg.  Under the guidance of their their teachers, Raymond (Chip) Berry and Adriano Magnifico, they're participating in the Dare to Compete Hovercraft Competition sponsored by the Manitoba division of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters' Association. 

We were called in to help with an adhesive application.  The team had to install the engine component into the fuselage and attach the inflatable skirting to the edges of the hull.  We recommended an Adhesive Systems (ASI) MP5405NS Maximum Performance Methacrylate with some wooden wedges to secure the engine and prevent the impeller fan from rubbing the inside of the fuselage.  The MP5405 is ideal for this application because it has a relatively short working time, and high viscosity so it's easy to work with and stays where you put it.  The MP Series of adhesives from ASI are also excellent for many other bonding, potting and encapsulating applications.

To attach the rubber skirting around the body of the craft, we suggested a Surface Insensitive (SI Series) Cyanoacrylate adhesive by ASI which allows for a quick and permanent bond.  Cyanoacrylates are widely used for plastics because of their quick setup times and extreme durability.

Did I mention that the hovercraft is only 16" long, and weighs just over 800 grams?  Their design takes many of the lessons from last year's competition and incorporates them into this year's design.  We expect very positive results for this team of students and we wish them all the best. 

Watch for their competition results on March 10, 2009 at the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters show held at the Winnipeg Convention Centre!