Tim Mara wrote:
That's an interesting idea. However, looking at the original panel which
is
heavy 3.5mm alloy, I suspect that it also serves as a stiffening bulkhead
for the cockpit area.


I can't say for sure..but I honestly doubt this

I think I will stick with aluminum.

I think aluminum will be more vicious in a crash........the fiberglass
phenolic sheet is very strong, but can break and would break at the thin
areas between the instrument holes in a violent crash.the metal probably
would not but could go through you instead.....for this reason I think
you'll find no more new gliders made with metal panels

Typically, the new designs have panels that rise so it's easier to bail
out, so the panel doesn't contribute to strength in any way. They also
have markedly stronger edges along the canopy opening for crash
protection. An old design like Bill's might use the panel to prevent the
sidewalls from bending out in a crash. The designer or factory is most
likely to know this, and I'd suggest contacting them about the proper
material.

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Eric Greenwell
Washington State
USA