Gel coats
Chekad produces wide range of Gel coats with different kinds of properties with hand layup and spray up viscosities.Gel coat is the most important part of the composite components, which longevity of composite components and their efficiency depends on the correct selection of gel coat and its applying methods. Also, the responsibility of protecting composite parts from corrosion, erosion, chemical substance, weather conditions, UV, etc… is on Gel coat. Chekad gel coats can be pigmented on demand, to provide a colored, glossy surface which improves the aesthetic appearance, while the clear type is also available.
Gel coats are a crucial component in many composite products, and since they form the exterior protection, the type of gelcoat should be chosen wisely and according to the final application.
Below table is a guidance for choosing the right type of gelcoat:
In this table, one point represents the lowest score and six points represent the highest.
| Product Name | Description | Price | Mechanical properties | Sagging resistance | UV resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ortho Gelcoat | For general purpose and suitable for decorative parts | $ | ●● | ●●● | ●●● |
| ISO Gelcoat | Good UV resistant | $$ | ●●● | ●●● | ●●●●● |
| NPG-ISO Gelcoat | Good UV and water resistant | $$ | ●● | ●●● | ●●●●● |
| Vinyl-ester Gelcoat | Suitable for acidic conditions and molding | $$$$ | ●●●●● | ●●●●● | ●● |
| Epoxy Gelcoat | High mechanical properties | $$$$$ | ●●●●●● | ●●●●●● | ● |
Proper application of a gel coat is crucial to the quality. Ideally, the gel coat applicator will apply 18 mils total gel coat, in 3 passes.
Gel coats are used to produce:
- Fiberglass boats
- Bathtubs
- Indoor and outdoor furniture
- Decorative walls and parts
- Car parts
- Wind turbine blades
