VFI-6185 Machinable Hard Coat

Thickness Requirements

To develop a uniform film over the surface for machining, apply the coating at a minimum of 3/8 – ½ an inch. If subsequent coats are needed, they can be applied up to 12 hours after the initial application. The final minimum thickness after machining cannot be lower than 1/8 of an inch; otherwise, the coating will be too brittle.

Equipment

VFI-6185 can be applied to a prepped substrate with a trowel or putty knife.

Surface Preparation

Surfaces should be clean and free of oils, dirt, debris, or other contaminants. Additional sanding prep may be required, depending on the surface.

• EPS foam – The foam must be aged for at least 30 days to allow any gas to escape from the manufacturing process. We recommend using 2 PCF foam for an optimal cost-to-quality ratio, but 1-3 PCF is acceptable. Ensure that the surface is clean and dry before you begin applying.
• HDPU foam – High density polyurethane foam does not need to be aged before application, but the surface must be machined and sanded. Ensure the foam is clean and dry before you begin applying.
• Existing hard coat – Surfaces must be sanded and/or primed before application to ensure adequate long-term adhesion.

Mixing

Mix times will vary depending on material volume and mixing method. A paddle or helix mixer is recommended for the full mix, but smaller quantities can be mixed by hand with a gallon paint stick. The pot life can be extended by mixing smaller quantities

Thoroughly mix the POLY “B” component before mixing with the ISO “A” component. Whether you measure by weight or volume, we recommend pouring the Iso into the Poly since it is easier to pour the lower quantity into the larger. Pour 1 part of “A” component into 5 parts of “B” component by volume, 17.98 parts “A” component to 100 parts “B” component by weight. Mix the two until uniform, then transfer them to a new container and mix until uniform again before use. VFI-6185 must be fully mixed and used before the pot life expires.

Post Cure

For proper adhesion, the temperature must stay between 50°F – 100°F during application. After the material cures, it can be sanded or machined. It is machinable the next day but will need to sit at room temperature for 2-3 days to obtain full physical properties. If there are any air gaps present on the surface after post-processing, they can be filled with more VFI-6185 and sanded smooth the next day. It can also be painted with architectural or automotive paint to improve the aesthetics of the piece for theming purposes.

Cleanup

Tools and equipment used to apply VFI-6185 can be cleaned with xylene, MEK, or mineral spirits.

Storage/Shelf Life

The shelf life of unopened containers is 12 months after the date of manufacture. Store the product between 60°F – 90°F in a clean, dry building. Once open, use it immediately. After opening, it is possible to store unused material by nitrogen purging both containers immediately after use.

Precautions

VFI-6185 is not a UV color-stable product and has no long-term UV testing. If it’s applied to a surface meant for outdoor use, it must be top-coated. Isocyanate in the A side may be irritating to the skin and toxic if inhaled. Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors or repeated skin contact. Use only with adequate ventilation. Do not thin or add foreign material to this product. See the Safety Data Sheet for complete safety instructions.