Applying Woven Cloth and Tape

Applying Woven
Cloth and Tape

Fibreglass cloth is applied to surfaces to provide reinforcement and/or abrasion resistance, or in the case of some timbers, to prevent grain checking. It is usually applied after fairing and shaping are completed, and before the final coating operation. It is also applied in multiple layers and in combination with other materials to build composite parts.

Fibreglass cloth may be applied to surfaces by either of two methods. The “dry” method refers to applying the cloth over a dry surface. The “wet” method refers to applying the cloth to an epoxy-coated surface often after the wet-out coat becomes tacky, which helps it cling to vertical or overhead surfaces. Since this method makes it more difficult to position the cloth, the dry method is the preferred method, especially with thinner cloth.

Dry Method

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Wet Method

An alternative is to apply the fabric or tape to a surface coated with wet epoxy. As mentioned, this is not the preferred method, especially with large pieces of cloth, because of the difficulty removing wrinkles or adjusting the position of the cloth as it is being wet out. However, you may come across situations, such as applying fabric on vertical or overhead surfaces, when this method may be useful or necessary.

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Alistair McBurnie

06:20 22 Oct 21

After a small hiccup with initial communication - ATL is an amazing company to work with . The have helped my get my business going from the start - They know their products and provide sound advice and for a new boatbuilder this is important.

Neil Manning

02:01 21 Feb 22

Professional easy to work with and technically advanced 1st choice in composites