Quickie Q2 Lite Construction Manual - page 50
around a sharp corner.
STEP 9: PRELIMINARY CONTOUR FILL
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Certain areas, like along the trailing edge (see cross section
views) require a dry micro fill. It is preferred to apply this fill
within 2-3 hours of finishing the fiberglass layup. However, where the
micro filler obscures the structure underneath, FAA inspection should be
completed before dry micro filling. Areas like the trailing edge where
the structure can be inspected from the other side should be filled while
the layup is still tacky (within three hours of the layup). If you wait
until the layup cures, you will have to sand the fiberglass surface to a
dull finish before applying the micro. So, mix up a "dry" micro mix and
trowel it into low areas while the layup is still wet, and save the work
of sanding where feasible.
STEP 10: CLEANUP
.....
Brushes can be used two to four times if after each layup they are
washed with soap and water. Wipe excess epoxy off with a paper towel. Wet
the brush and work soap into all fibers by mashing it into a bar of soap
(Lava brand is best). Rinse with hot water and repeat 3 times. Be sure
they are dry before next use. We generally use a cheap brush
(approximately $2.00 to $4.00 per dozen) and discard after two or three
layups. Clean squeegees the same way.
.....
If you use skin barrier cream (Ply No.9), the epoxy and cream will
wash off easily with soap and water. When you get epoxy on unprotected
skin, Epocleanse is used to remove the epoxy. Both of these products are
available. Once you are sure your skin is clean, wash again thoroughly
with soap and water, even if your hands were protected with plastic
gloves. If you get epoxy on tools or metal parts, clean them with acetone
or MEK before the epoxy cures. .
.....
The only good way to protect your clothing is not to get epoxy on
anything that you care for. Use a shop apron and don't make layups in
good clothing. A surplus flight suit or other cheap coveralls are a good
investment.
.....
You may feel that layups are messy work after your first experience
with them. However after you've done several, you will have learned not
to wipe your hands on your clothing (keep a roll of paper towel's handy),
not to scratch your ears, eyes, etc. during the layup. If your tools and
work area are clean and organized well and you are disciplined with the
epoxy, the job can be less messy than working with other materials.
STEP 11: KNIFE TRIM
.....
When a layup is wet, you can only scissor trim to within about 1/4
inch without disrupting the fibers in the ply. An easy clean trim can be
obtained by waiting three to five hours after the layup. At this time,
the laminate is firm enough to support the cloth from fraying, yet soft
enough to cut easily with c sharp knife. This "knife trim" stage is the
optimum time for edge trimming with ease and accuracy. Take a sharp,
single-edge razor blade or X-Acto knife and trim the edges with a motion
downward toward the edge. Experience will help you determine the correct
time in the curing cycle for optimum knife trimming.