Since gel coat was designed for in-mold applications, the process is straightforward and relatively simple. Gel coat is usually sprayed into the mold in several thin passes. After the MEKP hardener is added, there is generally about 20 minutes of working time before the gel coat will begin to harden. Some fabricators like to thin the gel coat before spraying and will add pure liquid styrene also referred to as Styrene Thinner or Monomer to the gel coat.
Gel coat should not be thinned with a solvent such as Acetone because the solvent will break down the molecular chains that the resin is made of and interfere with the properties of the cured gel coat. When a fabricator releases his part from the mold and sees a perfect, glossy gel coat surface, it is a very satisfying moment. Since the gel coat has been backed by subsequent reinforcement and resin, it can't be seen until it is out of the mold.
Gel coat is now part of the final composite. It is not a "coating. In a properly fabricated and cured part, the gel coat should not delaminate nor should the gel coat "chip" off from the surface because it is not a surface coating. If you are making a polyester or vinyl ester part in a mold, using gel coat is highly recommended as the proper material for the exterior surface.
Fibre Glast offers over colors of gel coat for your composite parts. Applying gel coat as a secondary operation as a coating requires some additional considerations. Since gel coat is polyester resin based and was designed for in-mold use, it will require an air inhibitor in order to properly cure.
This additive improves gloss retention and impact resistance, as well as acting as the air inhibitor and thinner.
Catalyze the material at 1. Once application is complete, no additional steps are necessary. The wax solution rises to the surface during the curing process and protects the gel coat from the atmosphere.
Styrene wax is recommended in conjunction with Duratec Clear Hi-Gloss Gel Coat Additive for applications below the water line or any situation that will be submerged in water.
For a glossy finish, Styrene Wax will need to be sanded off with grit sandpaper once the gel coat has cured. After the sanding has been completed, several coats of polishing wax or compound will create a durable, high-gloss finish.
Simply spray the PVA onto the gel coat and allow to cure. The timing of the application of the PVA is important. The gel coat needs to crosslink with itself right from the start without interference from the atmosphere. Applying the PVA right after you spray the gel coat will also trap styrene in the gel coat and prevent it from evaporating, thus aiding the curing process. Once the gel coat has cured, the PVA can then be washed off with soap and water. Selecting the right color for your project, especially if you're trying to match an existing color, has its own challenges.
Fibre Glast offers over colors to choose from. Our technicians suggest the use of Dyekum Steel Blue Dye to be really thorough. Start by sanding the surface with grit or sandpaper.
Also, they are used for the first sanding of gouges, dock dings, scratches, and blisters. When sanding areas that have been filled with putty we suggest using 40 or 80 grit sandpaper, depending on how large the repair is.
Once the fill area is level or contoured to the desired shape, sand with grit paper to remove the course scratches from 40 or 80 grit. Use 3M Abrasives for best results. We encourage the use of Acetone, because it does not leave the residue and evaporates easily. When the surface is clean, you want to get moving fairly quickly; if the surface is sitting for some amount of time, you want to re-clean the surface.
Dust and dirt particles are your enemy here, so make sure you clean the surface thoroughly. Determine whether you need one or two gel coat coats. If you change colors, it will require at least two gel coat coats. If this is going over a patch, at least 2 coats are recommended to get a uniform surface. Otherwise, there will be only one coat. Method of Application: Next, determine if you are going to brush, roll or spray your gelcoat so you can prepare the gelcoat for application.
You may either roll the gelcoat on, like paint, or spray it on, to apply the gelcoat. Be sure not to use foam rollers because they tend to leave the bubbles. If you brush on the gel coat, make sure to use a solvent-resistant brush.
Gel Coat Additives : You should also determine which additives that you will use with your gelcoat application. This should be added after all other additives just prior to application.
Refer to the catalyst chart located on the product page for the gelcoat you are using or follow the label guidelines.
Ideal range is 1. Gel time at 1. This time element is dependent on material temperature, room temperature, humidity, air movement, and catalyst concentration. Be sure to have a good strategy when applying your gelcoat. First time working with gelcoat. The gelcoat with no wax, brushable, added pigment, let sit for 18 hours.. I tried to just take the first layer off then switch to clean pad, still even middle is gunk..
I have a couple of questions to ask to better help you. What kind of gelcoat and color Did you use. How much of the gel coat? And lastly, did you brush, roll, or spray the gelcoat?
You are commenting using your WordPress. You are commenting using your Google account. You are commenting using your Twitter account. You are commenting using your Facebook account. Notify me of new comments via email. Notify me of new posts via email.
Search Search for:. Share this: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn. Like this: Like Loading Thanks P. First time working with gelcoat The gelcoat with no wax, brushable, added pigment, let sit for 18 hours.. Afternoon, Was the sanding disk cleaned with water before use? I also suffered gunk on sanding disk. Spraying with Clear water?? Hi Carl, I have a couple of questions to ask to better help you. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Enter your comment here Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in:.
Email required Address never made public. Name required. Follow Following. Fiberglass Coatings Join 62 other followers. Sign me up.
0コメント