Reactor UQ: Double Layer IX w/ Mylar Pics

**jspate61** · 06-01-2011, 08:31

Hey gang,

I just finished constructing a two layer IX under-quilt. The finished dimensions are 44W X 60L. This one is unique, I think, because I inserted a layer of reflective Mylar between the two differentially cut layers. The Mylar is cut five inches shorter at each end to avoid having to sew in pleats and to minimize any moisture retention. This works very well for reflecting heat back to the bottom of the hammock. The shock cord adjustment works like a charm for preventing wind and cold drafts from coming through at the ends. It served me well last week during a violent thunder storm in Missouri where winds peaked at 65mph. I'm not sure what the temperature was when the cold front came through, but it was **** chilly outside. No worries at all.

Cheers

**Aardvark** · 06-01-2011, 11:36

Kindly sir, where did you happen to come acreoss the IX?

**jspate61** · 06-01-2011, 15:46

Originally Posted by rreevestmmk

Kindly sir, where did you happen to come acreoss the IX?

I ordered from Scott at Backwoods Day Dreamer. I forget how much it cost per yard - something like 6.00 or 6.25. Scott is a forum member and he provides super fast delivery, even here in CANADA (the home of the Free).

http://www.diygearsupply.com/

Cheers

**Aardvark** · 06-04-2011, 10:53

Great Discount! ".... home of the free...."

**Knotty** · 06-04-2011, 11:08

Nicely constructed but I'm surprised you didn't have condensation problems. I'd have been swimming in it during a Missouri storm.

**jspate61** · 06-05-2011, 22:36

Originally Posted by Knotty

Nicely constructed but I'm surprised you didn't have condensation problems. I'd have been swimming in it during a Missouri storm.

When I designed this thing there were a couple of points that I had in the back of my mind which I hoped would minimize (to the extent possible) the risk of condensation:

Point 1. It bears mentioning, I think, that the IX does breath a bit as a result of the manner in which the support fabric (scrim)has been stitched on to both sides of the PEF core (which would otherwise form a perfect vapor barrier).

Point 2. The reflective Mylar that is sandwiched in between the two layers is designed only to reflect heat back at the sleeper. It too would normally act as a vapor barrier, except that I tried to overcome this issue by cutting it five inches shorter on each end to facilitate the circulation of air.

Point 3. The way the UQ is cut, hung, and trimmed (via shock-cord adjustments in the end channels) means that it seals nicely all the way around the edges, but fits very loosely (as opposed to a snug fit) against the bottom of the hammock. Without having the IX pressed up against my backside I experienced no condensation (even in central Missouri high humidity conditions).

Point 4. I'm a real skinny *******. As such, I don't sweat very much even under conditions of heavy physical exertion. My son and are the same in this respect and have both commented on this bizarre condition. This variable may actually be more heavily weighted (pardon the pun) than the previous points. So, call me lucky.

Cheers