Pre Antifouling

[shaqra]

I am about to use Gelshield 200 and wondering If I can use primocon primer before I antifoul. No mention in the International paint handbook if it can be used over gelshield. I dont want to antifoul until the same day I launch, which will be about 3 weeks time. The weather is right for the painting of the hull now with Gelshield. Would using primocon primer over the Gelshield allow me the time before I would need to antifoul?.
Thanks for any info

 

[cliff]

I would suggest you talk with the manufacturer at either of the locations below.

On something like this the only advice I would accept would be that of the manufacturer.

International Coatings Ltd (Head Quarters) Stoneygate Lane,
Felling,
NE10 OJY Felling
UNITED KINGDOM

+44 (0)191 4696111
+44 (0)191 401 2473

or

International Coatings Ltd. (regional office)
24/30 Canute Road, Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 3PB, UK
SO14 3PB Southampton
UNITED KINGDOM

+44 (0)23 8022 6722
+44 (0)23 8022 2090

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"Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity"

 

[Pye_End]

80% sure I have read that you do not need to prime Gelshield. If so I would have seen it in the International book or on the tin.

 

[VicS]

[ QUOTE ]
you do not need to prime Gelshield

[/ QUOTE ] Not it would appear if you over coat in within the specified time limit. So in theory it can be overcoated with Primocon within that time and then antifouled without any addional preparation some time later.
It might be better to lightly abrade the Epoxy before antifouling and leave out the Primocon but lightly abrading the whole of the underwater surface takes rather longer to do than to say!

Cliff is right International should be consulted and their advice followed.

 

[cliff]

"Gelshield 200 is an epoxy barrier system that serves the dual function of the barrier system and antifouling tie coat. Once the recommended thickness has been applied it can be over-coated by any of the antifoulings in the International Range. Gelshield 200 is an epoxy primer with specific formulation characteristics developed to offer easy application by a variety of methods whilst consistently delivering a high level of protection against osmosis. The solvent based epoxy technology delivers extremely good adhesion to the surface and very good tolerance to a wide range of application conditions and temperatures. To augment the barrier properties of the epoxy, layered mica has been incorporated within the formula that creates an interlocking Microplate® effect within each coat, which is highly effective in combating water penetration. It will also protect metal fittings from corrosion, and so a single product can be applied to hull, sterngear and skin fittings to provide maximum protection to all underwater parts of the vessel. Gelshield 200 can be applied directly to the gelcoat after the appropriate preparation. Roller, brush or conventional sprays are appropriate application methods, whilst airless spray has the advantage of being able to deliver the greatest coating thickness in each application, reducing the time to complete the project. Once cured, the full range of antifoulings from International can be applied direct to Gelshield 200 as it functions as an antifouling tie coat as well as a primer. If the application is completed within the overcoating time specified, no sanding is required between coats of Gelshield 200 or subsequent antifouling layers."

Taken from International Paints here

For further factual information See here

As I said before I would contact International Paints to obtain professional advice rather than rely on the unqualified opinions of the forumites, even if their opinions are given in good faith, however it is your boat and your money/time you risk wasting so the choice is yours - do you seek professional (free) advise or rely on "common lore" and someones "memory" or "80% sure" - bit like playing Russian roulette - do you like the odds?

If you read the data sheet you will see there are quite short time limits on being able to overcoat Gelshield 200 without additional preparation (and/or primer?) being needed.

I know which way I would go!
--------------------

"Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity"

 

[shaqra]

Thanks for all of the replies, I will follow Cliff's route and speak to the paint suppliers.
Much appreciated info. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif