For a better finish
Mould Gelcoat Sanding and Polishing
1/8 - Complete process
Smoother Surface on a Gelcoat Mould with a Mirka Solution
Proper surface preparation on both the plug and the mould is crucial for a successful yacht or boat construction. Any flaws on the surface of the plug will be transferred to the mould, and then to subsequent parts made from that mould. A smoother outer surface on the mould will necessitate less finishing work, saving both time and money.
You can watch the full video here or check out the practical details in the step-by-step process in the list.
2/8 - Step 1
Sanding
For orange peel surfaces, start sanding with Mirka® Galaxy 600 grit together with Mirka® DEROS 650CV.
3/8 - Step 2
Continue sanding with Galaxy grit 800 using a Net Interface.
Clean the surface in between every step.
Continue sanding until the scratches are reduced.
4/8 - Step 3
Continue sanding with Galaxy 1200 or 1500 grit together with a Net Interface
Clean the surface.
5/8 - Step 4
Continue sanding with Galaxy 2000 grit together with a Net Interface.
Clean the surface.
6/8 - Step 5
Continue sanding with Mirka Abralon® 3000. When wet sanding, turn off the dust extractor.
Clean the surface.
7/8 - Step 1
Polishing
Polish the surface with Polarshine® 45 and a Lambswool Pad Pro
together with Mirka® POLAROS RP 600 polisher to eliminate sanding scratches.
Clean the surface in between every step.
8/8 - Step 2
Light colours
For light coloured surfaces, we recommend using Polarshine® 12
and an Orange Waffle Foam Pad instead.
Dark colours
Polish dark coloured surfaces with Polarshine® 12 Black together
with a Black M Waffle Foam Pad to remove polishing marks or haze and holograms.
Clean the surface.