A couple of my plans call for the use of wing tubes. These tubes allow the builder to create a wing assembly that may be easily disassembled for transportation. I like to use R/C helicopter tail booms (thanks to my heli flyin brothers) for the wing supports. I use fiberglass for the actual tube sleeves that fit in each wing panel and in the fuse. I will show you a fairly simple way to make your own custom wing tubes.

Materials: 2 oz glass cloth, 30 epoxy or finishing resin, mixing cups, sticks and epoxy brushes, aluminum or carbon tube, double sided scotch tape, drafting tape/ masking tape, Kevlar thread, wax paper

Process: Begin by covering your work surface to protect is from any epoxy spills. I also like to cut a large piece of wax paper to use as a work surface. Also, prepare your tube by covering it tightly with wax paper. Use drafting tape to secure the paper to the tube, then roll the paper tightly around the tube once. Then place some pieces of double stick tape on the tube lengthwise on the tube to secure the paper. This will ensure that only wax paper (no tape) is on the outside of the tube. Next, prepare your cloth. Cut the cloth to a shape that will allow it to roll around the tube at least twice. The length will be determined by your needs. You should now have a piece of glass cloth that is slightly larger than the length needed for the support tube and the width should be long enough to go around the tube at least twice. Lay your cloth down on the table and begin to roll the cloth around the tube. After one complete rotation, place a few pieces of double sided tape to secure the rest of the cloth to the tube. Next, use the Kevlar thread to wrap the tube in a crossing pattern to keep the cloth tight against the tube.  I usually tape both ends of the thread down at the ends of the tube beyond the area covered by the glass cloth. The thread can be cut later after the resin cures. Now its time to mix up some resin. The amount really depends on the length of the tube. I prefer finishing resin since it soaks into the cloth faster and easier. You also have more working time with finishing resin. Use the brushes to work the resin into the cloth all the way around. The cloth will expand a little but don't worry too much out it. Be careful not to use too much resin either. Once you finish, cut out a piece of wax paper large enough to cover the entire area of the glass cloth and wind it tightly around the tube securing it with tape. Set it aside to cure.