Getting closer to a decision now, but a question for you engineers out there:
All the spaceframe chassis I've seen so far seem to use box section, as opposed to using tubular construction. I guess using box sections, it would be easier to work with, cheaper and a hell of a lot easier to mount things on, but I am curious as to why many race car chassis still use tubular and not box.
My guess is that tubular construction would use less welds, and would produce a stronger and stiffer chassis, and may be lighter - am I on the right track?
Also, other than cost, is it worth considering stainless instead of mild steel? Would stainless be stronger or heavier? I guess you would not have to worry about internal corrosion with a stainless chassis.
Having inspected an RF chassis a few years ago, I was impressed at the apparent strength of it, and if photos are anything to go on, the DRB chassis looks (to a layman anyway!) even stronger and stiffer. Either way, I intend to use a full roll cage, which should add a lot of torsional rigidity.
Thanks in advance for suggestions etc. can't believe the depth of information and expertise on this forum!
Cheers
Greg
All the spaceframe chassis I've seen so far seem to use box section, as opposed to using tubular construction. I guess using box sections, it would be easier to work with, cheaper and a hell of a lot easier to mount things on, but I am curious as to why many race car chassis still use tubular and not box.
My guess is that tubular construction would use less welds, and would produce a stronger and stiffer chassis, and may be lighter - am I on the right track?
Also, other than cost, is it worth considering stainless instead of mild steel? Would stainless be stronger or heavier? I guess you would not have to worry about internal corrosion with a stainless chassis.
Having inspected an RF chassis a few years ago, I was impressed at the apparent strength of it, and if photos are anything to go on, the DRB chassis looks (to a layman anyway!) even stronger and stiffer. Either way, I intend to use a full roll cage, which should add a lot of torsional rigidity.
Thanks in advance for suggestions etc. can't believe the depth of information and expertise on this forum!
Cheers
Greg