: Hi,

: I'm ready to fasten my 1 3/8" aluminum inserts into the aluminum 1
: 1/2" outer sections to make a take apart mast similar to the Balogh
: masts. The outside part of the mast should be free of rivits or
: obstructions as I am using Sunfish sail slide rings that have very little
: clearance. I think someone told me that Balogh epoxied the insert into the
: mast but that the aluminum must be sanded and quickly epoxied before
: oxidation took place. Any ideas about this or has anyone epoxied aluminum?

: John

To get a full strength bond, you normally have to acid etch the aluminum. Hydro Chloric is the acid of choice, I believe.

For what you are describing, I think the mechanical bond from roughening it up with sand paper should be sufficient.

Mike