Paper or plastic - port materials?

[Anton]

I'm building ported enclosures for two new Adrire Audio Shiva 12" and I'm wondering about the opinions of cardboard vs. plastic (PVC Pipe, etc) ports.

Is there an advantage to one over the other? I had the idea of using cardboard ports this time and strengthening them by applying PVA Glue or epoxy.

Good, bad or indifferent...What do you think?

Cheers
Karl

[ThomasW]

Doesn't really matter, I prefer plastic since it's harder to deform or mess up during the building process. If one's going for a really big port for a low tune, plastic gets expensive

[Anton]

The cardboard tubes I have in mind have a 3" ID with a 1/8" wall thickness. They're not huge but they are cheap. With the right treatment I think they'll stand up to the challenge. :T

[technimac]

For a thicker wall than 1/8", check out a carpet store. They have cores from rolls that are much beefier than 1/8", and are close to 3" diameter.
I like your idea of strengthening the cardboard with PVA etc. :T
I'd give it a go!
HTH, Bruce

[Anton]

I might test the PVA glue on a small sample and see how it goes.
Maybe even water it down just slightly so it soaks into the cardboard alittle more.

[---k---]

If you are set on doing something like that, maybe also consider using Minwax Wood Hardener. An Artical in Make Magazine a while ago said that it works great on cardboard.

For a 3" dia, PVC is cheap.