VFI-5000 90 A Expansion Joint Filler

Equipment

VFI-5000 can be dispensed using a dual cartridge static mix gun or a low-pressure, plural component machine pump. When purchased as the Qwik Spray System, VFI recommends the plural component, pneumatically driven VFI-7500 Qwik Spray Gun. An air compressor that can provide 100 psi and 10 CFM of constant pressure is also required. Keep the cartridge upright when loading it into the applicator gun. Dispense initial material away from the joint to ensure the material is fully mixed.

Note: Application with the Qwik Spray Gun must be performed continuously. Stopping before the cartridge is fully dispensed will result in the material setting up in the mixing nozzle.

Surface Preparation

Joint filler separation can be avoided by delaying the application of the joint filler as long as possible after new concrete has been poured so it has time to shrink and cure. New concrete slabs should be allowed to cure for at least 28 days before installing the joint filler. All joints must be cleaned, prepped, and free of oils, dirt, loose particles, or other contaminants that might affect adhesion. Clean concrete where necessary by grinding, sandblasting, or wire brushing. For optimal results, re-cut joints with a dry diamond blade.

All surfaces should be structurally sound and dry (less than 5% moisture). If the area to be filled is wet or damp, the joints must be primed and allowed to set. If joints in the concrete have been filled previously, remove all old joint sealing materials. Priming may be required if the previous filler or sealant is not saw-cut from the joint.

Mixing

The temperature of the work area and surface should be between 50°F – 100°F during application, and the material should be at least 65°F. Using the material at higher temperatures or with larger quantities will shorten the pot life. You must premix the B side (Poly) until uniform before combining it with the A side (Iso). Mix times will vary depending on the volume of material used and the mixing method. When using cartridges, mixing is not required unless the material is visibly separated. Shake the cartridges until uniform if separation occurs.

Application Requirements

When weight is not an issue, closed cell backer rods may be installed at a depth of 1”-1 ¼”. If you plan on exposing the joints to heavy loads, the joint filler should be applied at full depth. Coverage will depend on the size of the joints. VFI-5000 cartridges, when used with a backer rod, will cover 17’ of ¼” wide control joints. The recommended method of application is to fill the joint from bottom to top. Overfill the joint by up to 5%, so you can cut excess material away to be flush with the surface. Allow the filler to set for approximately 45 minutes before using a sharp wall scraper or stiff, sharp razor blade to shave off excess material. Applying lightweight oil to the blade will allow for easier shaving.

Cleanup

We recommend using xylene or MEK as a cleaning solvent. Wipe excess material from the surface and application tools before it cures. If the material cures, a sharp wall scraper can be used to remove it. When using the Qwik Spray Gun, remove the cartridges from the applicator frame and throw them away. Do not soak the gun in any cleaning solvent.

Storage/Shelf Life

The material should be stored in a clean, dry building between 60°F – 90°F. The shelf life of the material in cartridges is 6 months from the date of manufacture. In containers, the shelf life is 12 months from the date of manufacture. Opened containers can be resealed with a nitrogen purge immediately after use to try and prolong the material’s shelf life.

Precautions

This product contains isocyanate, which may irritate the skin and is toxic if inhaled as particulate matter. Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors and repeated skin contact. Use only with adequate ventilation. It is not intended for exterior or interior joints that are subject to high movement from thermocycling. As a moisture-sensitive product, joints must be dry or wet and damp areas must be primed. VFI-5000 is not UV color stable and has no long-term UV testing. Do not thin or add foreign material to the product. See Safety Data Sheet for all safety information.