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MODERN LIGHT WEIGHT MODELLING MATERIALS
V. Ryan © 2007
 

DEPRON FOAM and ZEPRON FOAM: Balsa wood has been used for many years as a model making material. However, light weight modern, alternatives are also available. One such material is depron foam. It is a form of polystyrene sheet. It is lightweight and does not absorb moisture making ideal for model aircraft. It is available in two colours - grey and white. It is also available in three thickness 2, 3 and 6mm.
Depron is a polystyrene foam, popular as a material for the manufacture of fast food trays and packaging. It is much lighter than balsa wood and can be cut with a sharp blade, sawn with a fine toothed modelling saw or fretsaw with a very fine blade. It can be sanded and smoothed using the usual files and abrasive papers (eg. wet and dry paper). Heat can be used to shape it although great care should be taken.
Glue guns can be used to join depron or zepron although solvent free glues can also be used effectively. Glues such as UHU POR or POLY ZAP are amongst the most suitable.

Water based paints can be used to apply colour and even solvent free markers are suitable.

A typical model glider, hand made from depron / zepron can be seen below.
 

 
 
   

QUESTION:

Draw a sequence drawing showing all the stages of manufacturing a model glider, made from either depron or zepron. Start with drawing the shapes of the fuselage, wings etc..., cutting the shapes with a fine tooth saw of fretsaw - all the way to applying colour. Remember quality control.

   
   
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