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Wx/Block
High Performance
Gel Coat Protection
for
Sailplanes
Wx/Block offers two
component high performance UV protection and gloss enhancement for sailplane gel coat
finishes. This premium finish protection contains maximum levels of UV inhibition along
with gloss enhancing and anti-static surfacing agents for gel coat finishes. Wx/Block will
help maintain a high level of gel coat integrity by reducing the effects of environmental
exposure.
Gel coat finishes are affected by
Photo-Initiation and Photo-Oxidation. The ultraviolet band of solar radiation is the
problem. The process of photo-initiation causes chemical changes in a micro-thin layer of
gel coat at the surface, while photo-oxidation actually degrades surface molecules. The
result - sunlight, along with reactive atmospheric compounds, will degrade, yellow and
embrittle gel coat or paint finisher over the length of exposure. While traditional hard
wax or consumer type waxes will shine gel coat, their UV protection is limited. The key is
to provide active UV protection on the surface for an extended period of time.
Wx/Block Attacks the Problem
Wx/Block’s chemistry addresses the
problem in three ways. First - Wx/Block uses propritary advanced chemistry to block
photo-initiation and photo-oxidation. Second - Wx/Block forms a micro-film which provides
long term protection from the effects of UV exposure. Third - Wx/Block increases gel coat
gloss and provides antistatic properties. The anti-static agent reduces the accumulation
of dust on gel coat surfaces.
Wx/Block Shines
The Wx/Block System provides a highest
level of gloss of any wax measured. This gloss is a result of cleaning and sealing the
surface, then enhancing the surface reflectivity with the special properties of the
Wx/Block formulation. Try the “hand test” - Apply Wx/Block to a small section,
then drag your hand across the area. You’ll feel the difference and so will your gel
coat.
The Two Step System
The Wx/Block and Wx/Seal team up to clean,
polish and provide long term surface protection. Wx/Seal is a cleaning-sealing
compound, which conditions the surface. All gel coat surfaces contain microscopic
porosity. The Wx/Seal formulation cleans residual dirt and wax from the surface and seals
porosity. The gel coat is then prepared for maximum longevity of Wx/Block. Wx/Seal can be
applied by hand or by power buffer for deeper cleaning. Wx/Block provides the protective
surface for the gel coat finish and is applied by hand in either one or two applications,
following the Wx/Seal application. After this initial application, re-apply Wx/Block
several times a season or use for regular clean-up and bug removal.
Wx/Block Has Good Manners
Wx/Block does not have bad habits. It is
completely safe for all gel coats, polyester based finishes (Prestec or Duratec) or
urethane paint finishes. It does not contain compounds that will interfere with
refinishing or repair work. Should you decide to go back to old fashioned wax (we can't
imagine why), you can simply apply over the Wx/Block finish. Wx/Block is also very easy to
apply. It spreads easily and the gloss does not depend on hard or vigorous rubbing. There
is no need to sweat to achieve better results than traditional wax.
Wx/Block System Application
Wash dirty surfaces with a mild,
non-spotting automotive type soap if required. If the surface is slightly dusty, a
thorough damp wipe may be sufficient. Remove any heavy bug stains during the wash. Dry
surface with clean non-synthetic rags, towels or chamois.
The purpose of Wx/Seal is to further clean
and prepare the gel coat or paint for the subsequent application of Wx/Block.. Wx/Seal may
be applied by hand, or with a buffer for deep cleaning and mild scratch removal.
(Preferred
Procedure for Normal Cleaning)
Shake
well before using. Apply lines of Wx/Seal to the surface covering the immediate work area.
Using a soft, clean non-synthetic rag spread the material over the surface. Begin buffing
with medium pressure and reduce pressure as the surface begins to shine. Repeat as
necessary to remove bug stains or other imperfections from the surface. Use a clean rag
for a final wipe down. Allow 15 to 30 minutes, depending on temperature and humidity
before proceeding to the Wx/Block application.
(Optional
Procedure for Dirty Surfaces)
Use
a low speed (l500-2000 RPM) buffer with a good quality wool buffing pad. Be sure the
buffing pad is clean and free of any residue which could scratch the surface. It is a good
idea to use several buffing pads for an entire sailplane. The buffing pads may be cleaned
in water and spun dry on the buffer if needed. (Take precautions to avoid electrical
hazards). When using a buffer on a sailplane take great care not to heat the surface by
concentrating in a small area or by using excessive pressure. Also be very careful when
buffing in the vicinity of control surfaces and trailing edges so as not to hook the
buffing pad on an edge and possibly cause damage.
Shake
the material well before using. Apply lines across of Wx/Seal across to the surface. Begin
buffing with medium pressure and reduce pressure as the surface begins to shine. Do not
heat the surface. Repeat as necessary to remove bug stains or other imperfections from the
surface. Use a clean rag for a final wipe down and allow between 20-45 minutes. depending
on temperature and humidity before proceeding.
3. Wx/Block Application
Shake the container well to insure
complete mixing of the material. Spread lines of Wx/Block across the working area. Use a
clean non-synthetic rag to spread Wx/Block into a thin uniform film across the surface.
Inspect surface from different angles to insure complete coverage. Allow to dry. Hand
polish to a high gloss finish. If a second coat is desired for maximum protection, allow
30-60 minutes between applications, depending on temperature and humidity. Several extra
coats on leading edges will reduce the severity of future bug sticks. Wx/Block may also be
used for normal post flight cleaning and bug removal.
4. Frequency of Application
Sailplanes Stored In Trailers or Hangers:
Apply
Wx/Seal and Wx/Block at the beginning of the season. About mid-season rejuvenate the
finish with another coat of Wx/Block. Use Wx/Block for post-flight clean-up and leading
edge bug removal. This will also help decrease the severity of future bug sticks.
Sailplanes Parked Outdoors:
Treat
your gel coat with Wx/Block about every 90 days for maximum longevity. Every other cycle
(180 days) follow the complete Wx/Seal and Wx/Block application. In severe conditions or
to increase levels of protection apply more frequently.
Caution:
·
Test colored lacquer based accent stripes
or sailplane ID markings for color fastness.
·
Wx/Block creates a very slippery gel coat
surface. Handle sailplane components with care after application.
Gap Seals, Wing Tape & Contest
Letters:
Wx/Block
will cause reduced adhesion of gap seal tape, contest letters or wing tape if applied to
the gel coat prior to mounting. If replacing or mounting new gap seals or contest letters
it is recommended to adhere them before the application of Wx/Block. Put normal wing root
and horizontal stabilizer tape in place before the application of Wx/Block in order to
avoid reduced adhesion of this removable tape.
Wx/BlockTM, Wx/SealTM, are registered
trademarks. Wx/Block System makes no claims concerning the suitability of these products
for specific applications. Users should test the product for suitability on specific
finishes and types of aircraft. Nothing herein shall constitute a warranty, express or
implied. In no event shall Wx/Block or any agent thereof be responsible for the
application or determination of suitability of these products.
Wx/BlockSystem,Telford,PA18969
Max UV Protection & Max Gloss
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