Search results for: 'Cataly'

Gelcoat: What It Is, How It’s Used, and How to Repair It Gelcoat is the outermost protective and cosmetic layer used on fiberglass parts. Understanding how gelcoat works — and how to apply or repair it correctly — is critical to achieving long-lasting performance and professional results. What Is Gelcoat? Gelcoat is a pigmented polyester or vinyl ester resin applied to the surface of fiberglass parts. It creates a smooth, high-gloss finish while protecting the underlying laminate from wat...

Fiberglass & Gelcoat Technical Support Fiberglass and gelcoat work demands the right materials, proper technique, and an understanding of how each layer in the system works together. Whether you’re making repairs, building a mold, or producing parts, Fiberglass Florida provides technical guidance built on real-world experience. Our team supports professionals and serious DIY builders working with polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy systems. We help you select compatible products, apply them corre...

Open Molding & Lamination Technical Support Open molding and hand lay-up remain some of the most widely used fiberglass manufacturing methods in marine, industrial, and composite fabrication. Successful lamination depends on selecting the correct laminating resin and understanding how resin formulation, processing behavior, and cure characteristics affect the finished composite part. What Are Laminating Resins? Laminating resins are polyes...

Hand Laminating & Spray-Up Technical Support Hand laminating and spray-up are two of the most common open molding processes used in fiberglass fabrication. While both methods rely on similar materials, success depends on understanding the differences in application technique, resin behavior, and process control. At Fiberglass Florida, we provide technical support to help fabricators, repair yards, and builders choose the right laminating method and materials for their project — a...

Boat Restoration Technical Support Guide Last updated: February 2026 Boat restoration is the process of repairing, rebuilding, and refinishing fiberglass boats to restore structural integrity, appearance, and long-term performance. This technical support guide serves as a master reference for understanding materials, repair methods, and best practices used in modern fiberglass boat restoration. This page is designed as a living knowledge base. Each section below will continue ...

Awlgrip & Marine Paint Technical Support Awlgrip systems are precision coatings where surface preparation, product selection, and application technique all matter. We help painters and boat owners achieve consistent, professional results. This section focuses on system compatibility, proper sequencing, and real-world application guidance for Awlgrip, Awlcraft, primers, converters, reducers, and maintenance products. Understanding the Awlgrip System Awlgrip is not just paint — it i...

Polyester Resin Guide: How to Use It, Types, and What You Need Short Answer Polyester resin is the most widely used material for fiberglass repair, boat building, and composite construction. It is affordable, fast-curing, and ideal for laminating fiberglass cloth, mat, and structural parts. --- What is Polyester Resin? Polyester resin is a thermosetting resin used in fiberglass applications to create strong, durable composite structures. It is activated using MEKP catalyst and cures throug...

Fiberglass Fillers Guide: Aerosil, Q Cell, Fairing & Structural Fillers Explained What Are Fiberglass Fillers? Fiberglass fillers are powders, fibers, or pre-mixed compounds used with polyester resin or epoxy resin to create custom mixtures for marine, repair, and composite applications. They are commonly used in: Fiberglass boat repair Marine fairing and surface preparation Composite construction Surfboard building --- Types of Fiberglass Fillers (What to Use and W...

MEKP Catalyst Calculator & Mixing Guide (oz, mL, cc) MEKP Catalyst (Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide) is used to cure polyester resin, vinyl ester resin, and gelcoat. The correct mix ratio is critical to ensure proper curing, strength, and finish quality. Standard mix: 1.5% MEKP (about 2 oz per gallon of resin). Important Mixing Notes This information is based on MEKP 925 and tested at 77°F (25°C) . These are estimates and may vary depending on the resin system, shop conditions, and ap...

MEKP Catalyst Calculator Calculate exactly how much MEKP catalyst you need for polyester resin, vinyl ester, or gelcoat. Input Resin Amount (oz) MEKP % 1% 1.5% (Standard) 2% Standard mix is 1.5% at ~70–75°F. Adjust as needed. Result 0.24 oz 7.1 mL / cc Quick Tip: Perfect for small batches and repairs. Quick Mix Examples 8 oz Resin ~3.5 mL (0.12 oz)...