Polyester

Polyester Resins & Glass fibre

Polyester laminating resins are generally used with glass matt reenforcement to build thin, strong layers for the construction of molds, back-up molds or objects. The resin is weighed out and after the addition of a small amount of MEK catalyst ( 2% - 4%) it starts to gel and finally harden. The more catalyst you add, the faster the curing (hardening) process goes. Do not mix more than you can comfortably handle in 15-20 minutes. For larger surfaces mix multiple batches and work "wet in wet". Build up a thickness of at least 3 layers of glass by cutting small patches and put them overlapping on the surface of your mold/model. Impregnate the resin by dabbing with a brush. Wet out the glass mat but do not use excessive amounts of resin. For a standard square meter of 300 grams mat you should use ca. 800 grams of resin.

materials needed

	Polyester Laminating resin (our standard sets include catalyst)
	glass mat for strength
	release agent for everuthing that the resin should not stick to (e.g. acmos 82)
	Scales, save yourself a lot of trouble and get one of our affordable digital scales
	Mixing cups and stirring sticks
	lots of disposable brushes
	protective gloves
	acetetone for clean up

Polyester Clear Casting Resin (PX-Clear) is a cost effective water clear resin. The curing time depends on mass and temperature. Big masses will generate a lot of heat and will therefore cure faster. The bigger your casting, the less catalyst (MEK) you should use.
Polyester Clear Casting Resin is used for encapsulation, decorative objects, table tops etc.

N.B.

This resin might yellow slightly over time.

For high quality clear castings you might consider te use of our Crystal Clear Polyurethane Resins or our flexible Polyurethane Clear Flex series

Polyester gelcoat is used as primary layer on your mold surface to achieve a high quality surface finish that is strong, durable, impact resitant and abbrasion resistant. Gelcoat can be pigmented with Polyester Pigments

Polyester pigments are mixed with liquid polyester resin or gelcoat in the necessary amounts to achieve the required result.

Polyester putty is used to smooth and finish the surface of polyester castings but can also be used on metal, polyurethane, wood etc. They allow you to quicly fill up., level out and smooth different surfaces. The Super Putty is easily sanded down when hardened.

A fiber filled putty is available when extra strength is required but is harder to smooth-out

Glass fiber matt or weave is the standard for use with polyester laminating resin. Different grades are available, expressed in grams per square meter. The heavier the weave, the thicker and stronger your layers will be. Build up at least 3 layers with overlappng patches. For the " quick and easy" job when strength is not critical you can use chopped strands mixed in with your laminating resin and applied wit a brush.

All the things you might also need when working with polyester

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