Types of Fiberglass Finish Mat

The most common type of Fiberglass Finish Mat is the chopped strand mat. These mats consist of a series of one to two inch long fibers, each held together by a styrene soluble binder. This binder dissolves once the glass is cured, but the resin remains in place. This type of finish mat is ideal for use on fiberglass boats, and the softer weight of the material makes it ideal for draping over curved shapes.

The fibers of the mat are short and randomly oriented. The binder in the Fiberglass Finish Mat holds them together. Some types of the fibers are compatible with epoxy resins, while others are incompatible. The binder in emulsion-bound fiberglass mats is polyester-soluble, and the material will wet out when mixed with epoxy resin. For this reason, a CSM is an excellent choice for marine applications.

Another type of fiberglass finish mat is made of chopped strand fibers. These fibers provide extra thickness and strengthen the bond between layers of gelcoat. The chopped strand mat is also suitable for parts, as its random orientation prevents visible fiberglass patterns through the gelcoat. This type of Fiberglass Finish Mat is sold in various thicknesses, ranging from 3/4 oz to two oz. It is important to note that some of these materials are not compatible with epoxy, because they can dissolve the polyester soluble binder.

A common problem with CSM is its lack of binding agents. The epoxy resins must be mixed with the fibers of the mat in order to get the best results. A stitched mat is an excellent choice. It can be used above or below the waterline. Several layers of resin are required before the finished product is fully protected. The fiberglass finish mat is an important part of boating and is an important part of the overall structure.

Chopped strand fiberglass is made from a polymer resin. The resin that is used to create Fiberglass Mat is often an epoxy or vinyl ester. Both types have the same advantages, but there are some differences. Both types can be used for the same application. There are some instances where a coating on a surface with Chopped Strand Fiberglass may not be suitable for epoxy resins. If you're installing the fiberglass mat over a non-epoxy coating, choose a material with a higher resistance to moisture.

This fiberglass finish mat is a multi-step process. During the first step, a machine cuts the continuous strand fiberglass roving into small lengths. The fibers are approximately 1.5 to three inches long and are distributed randomly over a moving belt. After the fibers are cut, the sheet is then rolled. If you are using this product for an automotive project, it can be purchased as a roll or as a tape.