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 Topic: Sunncamp canvas/poles test results
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11/6/2009 at 4:53pm
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Hi there,
As some of you may know, I am a scientist, and there has been some interesting discussion recently about the relative strength of the Sunncamp canvas and poles versus other makes, so I took some samples into the lab yesterday and today and tested them.
This isn't a comprehensive or complete test, but it surprised me, so I thought you might like to know the results.
I took some samples from a Sunncamp 250, and, because I had it, also a Raclet Jade (I think). Both tents are now trailers, both are about 15 years old, and both suffered catastrophic canvas failure due to damage (one got run over by a car, one had a tree fall on it).
I cut three 15x15cm squares from the door panel (least likely to have suffered sun damage), as well as an unbent roof pole from each awning. One square I force tested until it broke, one I soaked in 1% hydrogen peroxide solution to simulate the bleaching effect of sunlight and then did the same, and one square I soaked in detergent and water overnight then did the same. For the poles I simply clamped them in a vice and hung masses 50cm from the clamped end until they bent.
I have to say I was taken aback by how strong the Sunncamp canvas actually was. The "new" samples tore at 2250N (Sunncamp) and 2850N (Raclet) respectively. In other words, the Raclet was stronger but you could have hung the whole trailer from either of them and they would have survived.
The bleached canvas fared less well. The Sunncamp tore at 1900N and the Raclet at 1980N. Very little difference between them at all, and still strong.
When soaked, it was interesting to note that the water leaked much faster through the Sunncamp than the Raclet canvas. However, the Sunncamp tore at 2190N (i.e. nearly the same as when dry), and the Raclet at 2340N (stronger, but the water had a bigger effect).
The poles were the most interesting. The Sunncamp pole was thinner, with a slightly thicker wall. Theory suggests that the Young's modulus for the poles should be identical, but the Sunncamp bent after 680N was applied, and the Raclet after 770N. Either way, you could swing on the pole (if you are lightish) and get away with it.
So, conclusions.... I was officially wrong. Don't get used to me admitting this, it won't happen often (Well, I wouldn't be me if I was TOO conciliatory). You Sunncamp owners out there have officially bought a quality product, Chinese canvas or no.
There are two caveats to Sunncamp ownership: One, if you are planning on hanging any baby elephants from the walls, don't buy a Sunncamp, and two, the canvas is slightly more prone to leakage if left wet for long periods. Other than that, I stand hoisted by my own petard and eating humble pie.
I guess I owe you ALL a pint now. I'll be the one in the tatty 1980s Conway Cruiser trying to avoid all Sunncamp owners.
Charlie
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13/6/2009 at 11:34pm
Location: The Republic of Bethnal Green
Outfit: 2010 Conway Crusader
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Chas
Did you look at the HUBLE PIE vids?
I'll buy you a pint coz you are a MAN
My mum used to say
IT TAKES A MAN TO APPOLOGISE
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If its Too loud your Too OLD
Russ Boy
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I do like a pint ,but when you are a brewer you have to ,well it would be rude not to 
