POLYESTER AND GELCOAT: CORE MATERIALS FOR BATH FIXTURE MANUFACTURING
In the United States, nearly half of all bath fixtures are crafted using a sophisticated blend of gelcoat and polyester resins, attesting to their prominence in the industry. The manufacturing process commences with the meticulous spraying of a thin layer of pigmented polyester resin, known as gelcoat, directly onto a mold’s surface. This layer, typically ranging from 20 to 40 mils thick, is not just for aesthetics; it forms the protective outer shell of the final product.
Following the gelcoat application, a more substantial coat comprising polyester resin enriched with short strands of glass fiber is applied. This combination is crucial for endowing the fixture with the necessary mechanical strength. After a brief curing period, the product is carefully released from the mold, ready for the next stages of production. Despite their widespread use, polyester resins have their vulnerabilities, including susceptibility to chemical wear, UV damage, and physical impacts.
Often referred to as FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester), these materials are not limited to bath fixtures but have a significant presence in other sectors, most notably in the construction of boats—a testament to their versatility and durability.
Leading the charge in supplying the bath market with top-quality gelcoat polyester resins are industry giants like Revchem Composites, NAC, Lilly-RAM Chemical Company, Ashland Chemical, Cook Composites, and Valspar. Their commitment to innovation and quality ensures that products made from their resins stand up to the rigorous demands of consumers, promising longevity and resilience in a variety of applications.