glassdave

iTrader: (1)

I actually prefer vinylester and 1708 for transoms and stringers in non race boats and its not an all composite rebuild (Coosa, use epoxy). My reply's deal with grouping the proper laminate with the proper resin system. Sort of maximize whatever it is you want to work with, choosing the right product for the job. Its also easier to push the project along quicker with vinylester. You can do several stages in a single day where epoxy even with its fastest hardener drags on forever and needs to be forced if you're gonna make any time. Force curing can take away some strength as well. It all depends of the project and what you want to achieve.

1708 + ester = the mat is the binder between the stacks of bi-ax or core, easier to finish for gel or ???, worked great for years, easier and faster to work with.

1700 + epoxy = no mat necessary, easy wet out, one less material, easier to balance the resin ratio, highest strength bot slow and sensitive to what products go with it and how there used

1708 + epoxy = pain in the azz to wet out, weak mat layer, very heavy wet laminate, difficult to balance, Works in a pinch but not my first choice by far.

Bottoms Up

When I need a thickness barrier or a layer of Kevlar. A hand held chopper is the answer. I use it as a bonding layer and it works well raining over a wet surface,sprinkle with chop( no binder) and add your next layer.......

http://www.fibreglast.com/category/F...per_Gun_Roving

Hope this helps.........