A question about foam flotation?

[btravlin2]

Howdy......I've got the new-to-me 1993 210 Osprey CC. I stuck my head in the anchor rode locker to check the rode and bow light wiring. I see all that hollow space between the outer and inner hulls and I think....."Why isn't that foam-filled or used for storage?" Afterall, there isn't much storage on a boat this size. And I don't see much foam either. This boat will sink.

And many boats that have foam flotation underdeck will turn turtle. Foam between the side hulls would keep a boat upright, it seems to me.

Is there any reason why foaming this area would be a bad thing? Good foam these days doesn't absorb much, if any water.

[gran398]

Absolutely you can foam it. Just make sure there is room in all directions when it sets off (expansion). Don't want to crack the glass.

[btravlin2]

The foam I would use if I do this provides 60lbs flotation/cubic ft. Any ideas on how many cu ft added would guarantee the boat floats with a full load of fuel and 4 people?

I'm interested in this because a boat that floats means I don't have to carry a raft, well.......fire would be a problem. But holing or swamping wouldn't.

I'm still considering disadvantages? Any?

[Callyb]

Any ideas on how many cu ft added would guarantee the boat floats with a full load of fuel and 4 people?

It all depends on the weight of the boat. You are looking for neutral buoyancy. I'm sure someone will chime in with some numbers shortly. As far as pros/cons there was just a discussion on this here, it starts at the third post and goes on to the next page.

Also, keep in mind that the foam will not keep the boat from rolling over, it will (should) keep it from going to the bottom. Also, in order to foam the entire hull you will be cutting a lot of holes to access all of the areas for pouring. Personally, I would leave it alone but it is your boat and your call.

Good luck!

[btravlin2]

I read the discussion on the link. My boat and motor with incidentals is in the 4500lb range I think. That comes out to 72 cu ft of foam. Even though there is alot of space between the inner and outer hulls, I don't think there is near that much. So what would be the point....other than noise reduction and rigidity?

I guess I'll forget that idea.