TR Model ReleaseTR Model Release

RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES

From the initial plug, to the mold, and onto the finished part, the complete line of TR professional quality compounds, releases, polishes and related products are designed to produce the best finish possible at maximum efficiency and minimum cost. The TR 4-step method for producing a high quality surface is reflected in the finished part.

1. Sanding

The initial step in surface preparation should begin after a minimum two week curing period. Grit selection will be determined by the smoothness and condition of the original surface. Progressively finer grit is employed until 600-1200 wet and dry imparts a smooth, satin finish as seen here in figure 1.

2. Compounding

The fine scratches left from the sanding are now removed with a machine buffer and TR-311 Buffing Compound. It is important to buff the entire surface, bringing it to a reflective sheen (as seen in Figure 2) since previous residue and microscopic imperfections must be removed. Deeper sanding marks and dull spots may require initial buffing with TR-309 Regular Compound followed by TR-311 Buffing Compound for final finish gloss and smoothness.

3. Sealing

With a machine buffer and clean pads (keep clean to avoid unnecessary scratches) apply two coats of TR-301 Sealer Glaze. This application further removes fine scratches, fills in and closes over minute porosity, and produces a high gloss, reflective surface (see Figure 3) which is ideally receptive to wax. Each coat should be buffed in opposite directions; once vertically and once horizontally, to insure complete coverage.

4. Waxing

Apply TR Mold Release Paste Wax using a circular, overlapping motion. The area being waxed should appear moist, or wet, to assure good coverage. Hand buff with a clean, dry cloth to obtain a final high-gloss finish.TR-100 Gold, TR-102 and TR-104 HI-Temp should dry thoroughly before removing (polishing wipe). When using TR-108, hand buff immediately. Do not allow TR-108 to set before wiping.

NEW OR RECONDITIONED MOLDS

1. On a new or reconditioned mold (i.e. one polished and cleaned with compounds) follow Step 4.

Proceed with four or five additional coats of TR Mold Release Paste. Wait one hour or more between coats to permit solvent evaporation and the Carnauba base to set.

Best results obtained when the wax application is allowed to stand overnight prior to gel-coat application. Use caution against any mold surface contamination or marring. Longer wax set time is required with lower temperature. This longer cure time may be reduced by heating the mold slowly to approximately (100F/38C – 125F/52C). Cool slowly and hand buff again. Apply one or two coats of TR Mold Release Paste and buff to a high gloss then proceed with initial layup.

With intricate or complex parts, a PVA parting film is insurance against hang-ups for the initial release. Be sure to avoid hot layups on the first few parts.

Note: All fiberglass molds should be adequately cured (normally two weeks at room temperature 77F/25C) or per manufacturer’s recommendations on the gel-coats and resins.

2. After initial layup, re-release with one coat of TR Mold Release Paste after each pull, for the first four or five parts. This conditioning period allows the exothermic heat to diffuse the wax compound thermally down into the gel-coat for a complete seal.