Here's a question from the Volume 4 - Issue #2 issue of RodMaker magazine:
"I just have to ask about these new rods with titanium
powder added to the resin or the ones where an outside
criss-cross of titanium filament adds to the strength and
sensitivity of the graphite. Can you comment on how this
works and if it is a true advancement? Ron. . . Athen, GA
I hate to rain on anyone's parade and there are many
things which I do not know about blank construction.
However, I do know quite a bit and can tell you that
ground particles of titanium or foo-foo dust or whatever
else added to the resin are not likely to provide any increase
in anything but marketing hype. Likewise, an outer
reinforcement of titanium wire to provide, I suppose, extra
hoop strength is not the best way to achieve such. Again,
score one for the marketing people.
I never like to downgrade any attempt at honest improvements
in rod and blank technology but sometimes these things have to be
seen for what they are. I have read the glowing reports on both
the rods you mention and have no doubt that they are excellent
performers. But in both cases it is doubtful that the titanium
powder in the resin or the titanium fibers around the blank have
much to do with anything except advertising. Sorry.
~ Tom Kirkman
Publishers note:
If you have any tips or techniques, send them
along! Help out your fellow rodmakers!
~ Publisher, FAOL
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