Any views on 'Hotvac' treatment?

[NealB]

Any views on \'Hotvac\' treatment?

According to the Hotvac website, conventional treatment of underwater blistering in grp (using heat lamps) does not achieve uniform results across the surface area. Also, it does not eliminate the styrenes that are causing the blistering.

'Hotvac' claims: to give highly consistent treatment across the whole surface, to get moisture content down to zero (that's my uninformed interpretation), and to eliminate styrenes completely.

They therefore claim that a 'Hotvac' treated hull is much less likely to experience recurrence of blisters in the future.

Any views? Any experiences?

Thanks.

 

[hisw]

Re: Any views on \'Hotvac\' treatment?

We had our boat done with this system. It was only last season so can't tell you of the long term effects but so far so good! It was very quick, power washing off twice daily for two months and then in the shed for two-three weeks. Alot quicker than waiting for a year or to to dry out.

H

www.araminta.org.uk

 

[ccscott49]

Re: Any views on \'Hotvac\' treatment?

Saw it used in Mallorca, excellent system and did dry the hull very quickly, drawing out moisture and drying the substrate. I dont know how it does over a long time, dont think it's been out that long.

 

[William_H]

Re: Any views on \'Hotvac\' treatment?

I don't know the system however moisture does evaporate or boil at a lower temperature with lower pressure so applying a vaccuum to the area along with heat should remove moisture much quicker.
If it was me I would just grind out the blisters give it a few hours of heat lamp and putty over the hole. It might reappear but to lay up for months is crazy. Boats give lots of pleasure even with blisters. I'd rather be sailing. ....olewill