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Gelcoat / Clear Coat CFRP - Cloudy White Problem
Gelcoat / Clear Coat CFRP - Cloudy White Problem
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Gelcoat / Clear Coat CFRP - Cloudy White Problem
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cfrpbhs
c
cfrpbhs
posted 6 Years Ago
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c
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Hello,
I am currently producing an infused complex carbon fiber part with a clear gelcoat CRYSTIC GELCOAT 253PA by Scott Bader. After some testing we concluded that multiple very thin passes need to be applied to avoid the gelcoat from getting cloudy. This being said we have to rely on the gelcoat operators expertise and the part in particular is extremely difficult due to deep cavities. I was thinking about infusing the part without a gelcoat and then applying an automotive clear coat on the part as a solution.
What are your thoughts on this? Any suggestions for an in mould applicable clear gelcoat that would have good cohesion with epoxy and not get cloudy when exposed to the sun?
What does the automotive industry do to avoid this?
Thank you
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MarkMK
MarkMK
posted 6 Years Ago
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The product that EC sells is best applied via a cup gun, but East Coast Fibreglass sell a version that is a bit thicker and more suited to brush application. It's badged as EC252a on their site and, I think, is probably sourced from the same manufacturer?
I can't vouch for the cosmetic results you might achieve via brush application, though, as an uneven coating will likely impact the look of the cosmetic appearance of the fabric. Careful application is required to get as even a finish as possible.
You do lose a little clarity even with spray application but the advantages of using it outweigh any downsides, in my opinion.
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Gelcoat / Clear Coat CFRP - Cloudy White Problem
cfrpbhs
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6 Years Ago
Many of our customers go down the clear coat route where added UV protection is needed. In mould Gelcoats can work with infusion and do have their place but in our experience, simpler flat panels are...
Warren (Staff)
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6 Years Ago
Can the gelcoat be applied with brush?
Classicarbon
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6 Years Ago
The product that EC sells is best applied via a cup gun, but East Coast Fibreglass sell a version that is a bit thicker and more suited to brush application. It's badged as EC252a on their site and, ...
MarkMK
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6 Years Ago
You can apply some gels by brush but it isn't recommended for infusion. This is because it is hard to avoid brush marks and when infused, the fabric is pressed on the uneven surface distorting it...
Warren (Staff)
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6 Years Ago
So if not brush then better to use only clear coat after part is ready?
Classicarbon
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6 Years Ago
If you've got the space in which to do it, then investing in a compressor and cup gun would be the easiest DIY solution so that you can use the spray in-mould coating Failing that, spraying the part...
MarkMK
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6 Years Ago
Yeah,you read my mind. I'm begginer so if part come out right will think about next steps. So it's fine to use mould release, wax etc. To be able take the part out?
Classicarbon
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6 Years Ago
If you do opt to use something like the GC50 in-mould gel coat, then semi-permanent release agent is all that would need to get reliable releases. As Warren said, application by brush wouldn't work.....
MarkMK
-
6 Years Ago
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