Introduction
The most commonly used material for protection of composite glider structure is polyester paint, most often Scheufler T35 and AKZO Schwabbellack.
Polyester paint is an excellent protection for the structure of sailplane surface, achieving high gloss, and the repairs are quite simple; due to the fragility, the structural damage under the paint may also appear on the surface.
The problem can occur after several years of use. The polyester paint, being exposed to UV rays and environmental influences, becomes brittle and cracks occur on the surface. This occurs even faster in the case where the surface is wet and exposed to temperature variations. Cracks also tend to affect the glider structure. If the cracks are not remedied over time, the structure under the paint begins to decay and there is damage to be repaired.
In recent years, acrylic and polyurethane paints are being used for the outer layer; these paints have the following advantages:
- they are highly elastic and therefore less likely to crack in the mechanical and thermal stresses;
- better retain moisture and dirt from ingressing into the structure;
- they are highly resistant to chemicals;
- they are very persistent against ultraviolet rays (and therefore do not become mat, they do not yellow, and there is no difference in color in any subsequent repairs);
- require less maintenance;
- repairs are simple.
Surface Refinishing Process
- Parts of the glider are weighed prior to refinishing of the surface.
- This is followed by dismantling and cleaning of parts that are carefully protected against the intrusion of water and dust.
- We then sand the old paint, document the surface (photo), then the inspector reviews the surface.
- If necessary, repairs are carried out.
- This is followed first by preparation for painting and then painting.
- We then sand the painted surface with successively finer sanding paper.
- We print and paint additional tags.
- The surface is then polished and cleaned.
- Followed by lubrication, assembly and sealing the gaps between control surfaces.
- At the end, weighing is carried out and detailed final inspection and measurement of assembled glider.
- Finally, we prepare the documentation of our service and the evaluation flight is carried out.
Polishing Plexiglass — extremely effective !
On the surface of the plexiglass, scratches may eventually appear, due to use and cleaning. The view from the glider to its surroundings may thus be greatly hindered. We offer the polishing of the plexiglass by using a special procedure with high efficiency. After the treatment, the plexiglass is like new.
