GENERAL INFORMATION
Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) laminate sections are tough, but like other products they can be damaged. Repairs are easily accomplished if proper procedures are followed. This guide sets out simple repair procedures that are based on accepted industry practice and when followed will achieve satisfactory results.
Quality of the finished repair is largely dependent on proper surface preparation and cleanliness. Sufficient thickness and overlap is equally important. Follow the instructions for the preparation, mixing and application of materials carefully to achieve good results. Fibreglass may be used to repair a wide range of surfaces including fibreglass, timber and metal surfaces on boats, cars, caravans and for repairs to house components.
Should you require further information with FRP which is not discussed in this leaflet or experience any other problems, please call Solid solutions.
SAFETY IS THE FIRST STEP
Before you undertake in any of the repair techniques discussed here, carefully read these safety hints;
STORAGE AND HANDLING
Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) laminate sections are tough, but like other products they can be damaged. Repairs are easily accomplished if proper procedures are followed. This guide sets out simple repair procedures that are based on accepted industry practice and when followed will achieve satisfactory results.
Quality of the finished repair is largely dependent on proper surface preparation and cleanliness. Sufficient thickness and overlap is equally important. Follow the instructions for the preparation, mixing and application of materials carefully to achieve good results. Fibreglass may be used to repair a wide range of surfaces including fibreglass, timber and metal surfaces on boats, cars, caravans and for repairs to house components.
Should you require further information with FRP which is not discussed in this leaflet or experience any other problems, please call Solid solutions.
SAFETY IS THE FIRST STEP
Before you undertake in any of the repair techniques discussed here, carefully read these safety hints;
- Most resins, solvents and catalyst are highly flammable. Store in closed original containers and in cool dark areas.
- Do not smoke when using the above and avoid all naked flames and excessive heat.
- To avoid any contamination, properly dispose of unused materials.
- Do not return unused mixed materials to storage containers.
- Catalyst and solvents can damage skin and eyes. Wear close fitting eye protection, PVC gloves and suitable clothing as recommended by suppliers.
- Resins, catalyst and acetone solvent can cause damage to skin and eyes. Wear close fitting eye protection. Wear gloves and suitable clothing to prevent prolonged skin contact.
- Keep all materials well away from naked flames and excessive heat sources. Always work in a well ventilated area, open doors and windows.
- Do not use oral suction methods for measuring. Do not ingest, or inhale any of the products.
STORAGE AND HANDLING
- Most resins, acetone solvent and catalyst are, highly flammable. Store in sealed original containers in cool dark areas.
- Properly dispose of mixed unused materials. Do not return mixed unused resins to original container.
- The shelf life of GP Resin is approximately six (6) months at
- When making any of the FRP repairs that are outlined in this leaflet, take care to adhere to the following points:
- When mixing catalystIresin, mix only the quantity that can be used in approximately 15 to 20 minutes, the pot life of the mix. This will be reduced in hot conditions.
- The catalyst (MEKP) must be thoroughly mixed with the resin in the range of 1% to 2% of catalyst by volume. The measuring cup should be used in all cases to ensure proper addition.
- Avoid working in direct sunlight -the resin materials are heat sensitive and set more quickly the higher the temperature, 15’C to 20’C is most conditions. Avoid working in cold, damp conditions.
- Acetone solvent is used for surface preparation and cleanup of equipment. It is not to be used for thinning the resin systems.
- All pigments will change colour after a period of exposure to sunlight. Exact colour matching is difficult, particularly with older parts. Excess catalyst or high curing temperatures will cause discoloration of This is more noticeable in pale
- Some materials Surfaces, eg. Glass, highly polished surfaces and some types of plastics are not compatible with fibreglass systems. Tests may be required to satisfy that the system will have reasonable 'life' expectancy.
- Thorough wetting out of the fibreglass cloth with the resin system is important to achieve the strength and lasting properties. This wetting out procedure normally requires the use of slotted metal rollers.
HOW MUCH DO I NEED
The amount of GP resin required will depend on whether you are using heavy or light mat, or cloth. The average amount required is 1 litre of mixed resin per square metre of 450gm mat and approximately 500 mls mixed resin per square metre of 225gm mat or cloth.
SURFACE PREPARATION
It is essential that the surface to be fibreglassed is free from PAINTS, OILS. DUST.
For Fibreglass Repair
- Lightly sand the surface with medium grade abrasive paper to remove existing topcoat or paint, back to original fibreglass layer
- Wipe off surface, dust and clean with acetone solvent.
For Timber Surfaces
- Remove all paints, oils, dust etc.
- Lightly sand surface with medium grade abrasive paper.
- Wipe surface clean
- Timber must be dry before fibreglass application.
For Metal Surfaces
- Remove all paints, oils, dust etc.
- Sand with abrasive paper until metal surface is clean.
- Wipe over surface with acetone solvent to remove all dust/ contamination.
Note: All corners and edges should be rounded.
MIXING STEPS
Catalyst addition must be carefully done -a minimum of 1 part catalyst (MEKP) to 100 parts of GP resin by volume to a maximum of 2 parts per 100 parts. In cool conditions use 2 parts/100 parts.
Add the catalyst into the resin and thoroughly mix.
Refer to container label for mixing details.
CHOPPED STRAND MAT FIBREGLASS CLOTH
LIGHT CSM
- For areas such as fibreglassing timber where strength is not important.
- For normal household repairs
- For applications where laminate thickness and strength are not important.
HEAVY CSM
- For flat surfaces where strength and laminate thickness are required and important.
- For boat hull repairs.
- For car body repairs.
CHOPPED STRAND MATIFIBREGLASS CLOTH
CLOTH AND TAPE
- Not as strong as CSM
Easy to use, particularly for corners and joints
APPLICATION
After measuring and cutting glass, mix resin and catalyst together. Brush the mixed resin onto the prepared area to be glassed then lay fibreglass mat over resin Apply a second coat of mixed resin and using a slotted metal roller force the resin through the fibreglass, carefully removing all the air bubbles. Allow to cure. It is much easier to wet out the fibreglass reinforcement by forcing resin up from below rather than rolling it in from the top surfaces. Pigment paste may be added if colour is required to the resin at approx. 20 gm per 1 litre. '
If a second layer of fibreglass is required for strength this may be applied immediately after the first layer is touch dry. Allow the fibreglass layer to cure for 1 to 2 days to achieve its full strength.
THE LAMINATING PROCESS
The type of glass used in the laminate will be determined by cost and strength considerations. Generally, most of the reinforcements are in the form of chopped strand mat which is cheaper than the other types of glass. However, the appearance of a laminate is enhanced if a layer of surface tissue, or a 225 gm / sq. mt chopped strand mat is used in the outer surface.
Fibre Glass International markets a complete range of chopped strand mat, surfacing tissues and glass reinforcing materials suitable for the laminating process.
A small Fibreglass Repair Kit 1s also available for those small repairs.
THICKENING THE RESIN
The most common method for thickening catalysed GP Resin is by adding industrial talc. This can then be used as a putty or bog. This talc (white powder) is Included in the Fibreglass Repair Kit, or IS obtained separately packed.
FLOWCOAT
Flow coat is a thick paint like consistency which can be brushed on after fibreglass repairs or for recoating worn areas such as boats, floors etc.
This then protects the surface. Flowcoat is available in white or neutral and may be tinted if colour is required using pigment paste. The surface to be coated should be sanded and wiped clean with acetone solvent to remove any dust contamination. If a smooth finishes is required sand with a fine wet & dry paper and then cut and polish with an appropriate polish. Is a similar product to Flowcoat but should only be used in conjunction with moulds and NOT ON EXTERNAL REPAIR WORK. Being unwaxed it remains tacky when exposed to
CLEANING UP
Brushes, rollers and equipment should be cleaned up with acetone solvent before resin / Flowcoat starts to gel.
CARE AND UPKEEP OF FIBERGLASS PRODUCTS
Exposure to sunlight, water, dust and chemicals can be detrimental to the gelcoat surface, causing chalking discoloration, yellowing or loss of gloss. Simple periodic maintenance procedures will minimise these changes.
BASIC MAINTENANCE
When not in use; keep the gelcoat surface out of the sun or covered with a canvas tarpaulin. Do not use sheet plastic or other non-porous materials which can trap moisture between the cover and the surfaces. Wash the surfaces with a mild detergent. For best results, use cleaner recommended for fibreglass and follow label directions. DO NOT use automatic dishwasher detergent, abrasives, bleaches, strong chemicals with acids I bases or ammonia. Wax at least twice yearly to ensure gloss and protect the flnish. Use only wax recommended for fibreglass and follow instructions carefully. NEVER wax a gelcoat surface in direct sunlight.
Supplied by
Solid Solutions
19 Ardena Court
East Bentleigh 3165
Telephone 03 9579 2044
Facsimile 03 9579 0573