Flatiron Coastal/Thames river type Collier
Flatiron Coastal/Thames river type Collier
A flatiron is coastal trading vessel designed to pass under bridges that have limited clearance. The mast(s) are hinged or telescopic, her funnel may be hinged, or omitted altogether and her wheelhouse may also fold flat or be open on the top. Flatirons were developed in the UK primarily as coal ships (colliers) hauling coal from North East England and South Wales to gasworks and power stations on the River Thames that were upriver from the Pool of London.
Durring WW2, these ships were a favorite target for German pilots thus often needed to be escorted by small craft such as the famed MBT boats. This model is 3D printed in 1 piece via FDM. It measures just over 8 inches long at 203mm and about 34mm wide
This model features 3D printed parts: There are two types of 3D printed parts we use in our products. "FDM" is lower cost, and is what most would recognize as traditional 3D printing. This type of model printed in layers from thermal plastic (generally PLA or PETG), and is lightweight with reasonable detail but will have visible striation (or lines) that the hobbyist may want to clean up using putty, primer, or other hobby techniques. "SLA" is a laser cured photo-resin that has exceptional detail, and generally has a much smoother finish without significantly noticeable striation. This type of material is more expensive, and fine details can be more delicate. Some models may use either or both types of parts, and some models may have the ability for the buyer to select the print type under print options. These models are intended to be painted and may come in different colors.