Releasing Sikaflex

[KenMcCulloch]

Problem: SS fitting with an area of around 100 sq cm sealed to grp deckhead with sikaflex, needs to be removed. Possible solutions? Is heat any use or is it just a case of brute force?

 

[Jabs]

Try stainless steel lockwire as a 'cheese cutter'.

I don't think heat will do a lot until it burns.

Tony.

 

[Twister_Ken]

"Uncured Sikaflex®-291 may be removed from tools and equipment with mineral spirit or an other suitable solvent. Once cured, the material can only be removed mechanically. "

Guess that means it has to be cut, sawed, sliced or scraped off.

 

[saxonpirate]

Problem: SS fitting with an area of around 100 sq cm sealed to grp deckhead with sikaflex, needs to be removed. Possible solutions? Is heat any use or is it just a case of brute force?

Not at all easy and heat doesn't seem to work. Never tried cheese wire but have always succeeded with a sharpened wide blade paint scraper used like a chisel. It's slowly does it, bit by bit with the scraper and soft wood wedges. If you are lucky/careful you'll do it without damaging/pulling away any gel-coat. Patience is the word...

 

[Lakesailor]

I've removed cleats and winches by prising up one corner. Once it's started to give it will come away. Protect the GRP you are levering over with ply and wood chocks to form a fulcrum point.
If it's 292, forget it.

 

[KenMcCulloch]

OK, cheers for all that.