Quickie Q2 Lite Construction Manual - page 52
metal surfaces should be free of oil and grease and, except for bolts,
nuts, and other fasteners, metal surfaces should be dulled by sanding
with 220-grit sandpaper, and coated with epoxy before setting in place.
Cured micro surfaces should be sanded dull but be careful not to
obliterate surrounding foam surfaces while doing it. In practice you may
be glassing over several types of material in the same layup and you will
be using most of these surface preparation techniques together.
ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS
.....
Temperature has the greatest effect on the working properties of
your epoxies. 75 degrees Fahrenheit is an ideal temperature. The range
from 60 to 90 is acceptable with the precautions mentioned in the section
on EPOXY. Humidity has a lesser effect on these materials than it does on
aircraft dopes and some paints. Humidity will only create problems if it
is over 75%. Don't undertake a layup if it is pouring down rain outside
or, if you notice a cloudy "blush" on the wet epoxy surface, or any
evidence of whiteness in the epoxy due to moisture.
RECOGNITION OF A DRY LAYUP
.....
One of the most important things you must know is how to inspect
for the presence of air within a layup. Air leaves somewhat crystal-like
flecks of white areas, noticeably different than the white color of the
microballoons. The presence of air is shown in the adjacent sketches in 3
forms: (1) A bubble or large void at the foam surface or within the
laminate, (2) small bubbles of air scattered throughout an area, or (3)
inadequate filling of the outer ply. Make a layup of 3 ply BID in a 6-
inch square over a scrap piece of foam, trying to achieve these 3 types
of dryness. Let it cure with the defects. This will be a handy sample to
use to instruct others who will help you inspect.
DRILLING, GRINDING, & SAWING
.....
Drilling through cured glass tends to tear the surface plies on the
back side. Backup a glass layup with a wood block for drilling as shown
and drill at medium speed.