To mix fiberglass gel coat for applications below the water line, you typically add specific additives and a catalyst according to precise percentages and ensure thorough blending.
Mixing gel coat correctly is crucial for proper curing and achieving the desired finish, especially in critical areas like below the water line. The process involves adding wax and a catalyst, ensuring they are fully dispersed throughout the gel coat.
Key Steps for Mixing Gel Coat Below the Water Line
Based on the provided reference, the mixing process for gel coat intended for use below the water line involves specific additions:
- Step 1: Add Wax
- For all applications below the water line, add #71 Styrene Wax at 5% by weight or volume (check product specifications for clarity, but percentage indicates proportion).
- Mix this thoroughly into the gel coat.
- Step 2: Add Catalyst
- Catalyze the gel coat by adding #69 MEKP (Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide) at 1.5%.
- Note: If you are using Duratec Clear Hi-Gloss Gel Coat Additive, adjust the catalyst percentage to 1.75%.
- Step 3: Mix Thoroughly
- After adding both the wax and the catalyst, mix the entire batch thoroughly. This step is essential to ensure that all gel coat resin is properly catalyzed and that the wax additive is evenly distributed.
Additive and Catalyst Percentages
Here is a summary of the percentages mentioned for mixing gel coat for below the water line applications:
| Component | Standard Percentage | Percentage with Duratec Additive |
|---|---|---|
| #71 Styrene Wax | 5% | 5% |
| #69 MEKP Catalyst | 1.5% | 1.75% |
Percentages are typically measured by weight, but always verify with the specific product instructions.
Ensuring these components are added in the correct ratios and mixed completely is vital for the gel coat to cure properly, achieving necessary hardness and water resistance for submerged areas.
