dangerdan - 22-3-2016 at 12:53 PM
I'm want to build a kite buggy this year based on You Tube video's that Popeyethewelder posted. I have not figured out how to build the side rails yet
or figured out the distance between them but I'm working on that. The rest is fairly easy. I will cut the steel and my brother-in-law can do the
welding. My problem is that I do not know which grade of stainless to use. Popeyethewelder's site describes the different grades of stainless but no
where does it mention which grade he used. My best guesstimate is that he uses 304 grade.
Looking for a little help.
Ralph
WELDNGOD - 22-3-2016 at 02:25 PM
I used 316L instead of 304 because 316 has a bit of molydenum added to make it tougher and more resistant to corrossion.304 will work fine and be a
little cheaper.But for max strength use 316.
awindofchange - 22-3-2016 at 02:45 PM
Either 304 or 316 will work fine. As mentioned 316 is a little stiffer and harder to machine but also more expensive. I mostly use 304 and have
never had an issue. Also, no real need to use DOM tubing (seamless), welded tubing is more than strong enough and a fraction of the cost. For
thickness, I would use either .098 or .120 wall for longer lengths of tubing (long rear axle or anything 1" diameter or smaller), for shorter runs and
to lighten up the buggy you will be ok with .065 for tubes 1.25" diameter or larger but I personally wouldn't go anything thinner than that.
Memopad - 22-3-2016 at 04:18 PM
304 is stronger, not 316. But 316 has better corrosion resistance. You will still need to clean/polish the welds on 316 to maintain it's anti
corrosive properties. Powder coating might be an option with standard grade steel.
eric67m - 22-3-2016 at 06:29 PM
I believe in Popeye's videos he uses schedule 10 stainless pipe. 1-1/2" rear axle, 1-1/4" side rails, 1" on the fork.
dangerdan - 23-3-2016 at 08:24 AM
Thanks guys thats what I was looking for.
eric67m @ - FYI - The shedule rating only applies to the wall thickness of stainless not the stainless grade.