545 Epoxy Primer White Base D8001

Product Overview

Awlgrip 545 Epoxy Primer D8001 White is a high-performance marine epoxy primer engineered to seal surfacing primers, fairing compounds and prepared substrates before the application of Awlgrip polyurethane topcoats. It is one of the most widely specified sealing primers in professional yacht painting systems and is approved for use both above and below the waterline when properly applied.

The D8001 White base is preferred when applying light-colored or bright topcoats, improving color accuracy and coverage consistency.

Key Features & Benefits

• Corrosion-resistant epoxy sealer primer
• Improves adhesion of Awlgrip and Awlcraft topcoats
• Seals porous fairing compounds and surfacing primers
• Enhances brightness under white and light colors
• Approved for above and below waterline use
• Spray, brush or roller application

Compatible Substrates

Awlgrip 545 White may be applied over properly prepared:

• Aluminum (with corrosion primer where required)
• Steel and stainless steel
• Fiberglass gelcoat
• Composite laminates
• Awlfair fairing compounds
• High Build and Ultra Build epoxy primers
• Previously painted surfaces (properly sanded)

System Compatibility

545 Epoxy Primer is used as the final sealing primer before:

• Awlgrip HDT Topcoat
• Awlgrip OG / OH Series Polyester Urethane
• Awlcraft 3000 Acrylic Urethane
• Awlcraft 2000
• Awlcraft SE Basecoat Systems

Mix Ratio & Converter

Mix Ratio (by volume): 1:1 with D3001 Converter

• Induction time: 15 minutes at 25°C / 77°F
• Pot life: Approximately 16 hours at 25°C

Application Guidelines

• Recommended Wet Film Thickness: 87µm / 3.4 mils per coat
• Recommended Dry Film Thickness: 35µm / 1.4 mils per coat
• Apply 1–2 coats depending on system build
• Spray, brush or roller approved

For spray applications use OT0006 reducer (up to 25%). For brush or roller applications use OT0031.

Sanding & Overcoating

• Minimum time to sand: 16 hours @ 25°C
• Minimum overcoat time with topcoat: 12 hours
• Maximum overcoat window: 24 hours without sanding

If maximum recoat window is exceeded, sanding is required before additional coating.

Above & Below Waterline Use

Awlgrip 545 D8001 White is approved for use above and below the waterline within a complete Awlgrip system. It provides corrosion resistance, substrate sealing and uniform absorption before polyurethane finishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I choose White vs Grey 545?

Use D8001 White under light-colored or white topcoats. Use D1001 Grey under darker colors for better coverage contrast.

Can 545 be applied directly to gelcoat?

Yes, provided the surface is properly sanded and cleaned to remove gloss and contamination.

Is 545 required before Awlgrip Topcoat?

In most professional systems, yes. 545 acts as a sealing primer to ensure uniform topcoat adhesion and performance.