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What to use as filler?

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 10:37 am
by sijandy
What does everyone use as a filler? I don't mean for repairs but for aquiring a good finish post layup, so basically cosmetic only. I use peel ply on the top and it leaves a rough surface, iv'e tried using the same epoxy i use for the layup but it is (for me) nigh on impossible to achieve a perfect finish and takes forever to rub down. At the other end of the scale theres automotive body filler which is easy to work with and can pretty much get perfect with only 1 or 2 skims but cracks under flex and has no strength. I've also tried stuff called 'fibrefill' but this is better for repairs as opposed to thin skim layers. So what does everyone use?

Re: What to use as filler?

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 12:17 pm
by chrislandy
I'm going to try Durepox clear on the next build, its a 2k high build clear lacquer that is sprayed onto a rubbed down finish

Re: What to use as filler?

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 1:13 pm
by longwhitecloud
vacuum with a layer of glossy plastic sheet that is not super flexible but not floppy - for glossy finish and peel off - dont let teh resin get too bubbly - even vacuum them out... - or warm it up ... no peelplying - addd -or.. hot coat the glass - ie paint warm epoxy to fill in weave gaps before u sand..


or
u can use micro balloons best - or super cheap filler is simply talc powder which works well - slightly heavier and bit more brittle - kind of what body filler is made of except that polyester resin and epoxy do not stick together as good - although it does work but brittle as u say...

Re: What to use as filler?

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 9:38 pm
by zfennell
texture from the peel ply was in anticipation of other layers to the lam.
if not, then perforated release 'film' leaves a better finish.

either way , your reinforcing cloth (glass) should still be below the film.
sand off the majority of the 'nasties' before try to fill.
fill holes with same laminating resin.

if you want a clear coat (hot coat) any of the fillers you've suggested will not work ( because they are opaque) . If so you may as well just paint it.

otherwise, once the lam is smooth with no voids, try a good quality clear varnish or laquer that is made for good cosmetics and uv protection.

some laminating epoxies will cure hard enough to polish if you let them cure and use lots of cold water while sanding. with low pressure.....but they still make lousey 'paint'


-IMO
bill