FIBERGLASS PREP CLEANER

What is Epifanes Fiberglass Prep Cleaner and why choose it?

Epifanes Fiberglass Prep Cleaner is a highly effective solvent-based degreaser specifically formulated for the preparation of GRP / fiberglass surfaces. Based on a mixture of acetate and hydrocarbons, it removes wax, oily residues and other contaminants from gelcoat, providing a clean surface for subsequent sanding and coating. The product is also suitable for cleaning bare steel, alloy and epoxy resin where thorough degreasing is required.

Main features

• High-performance degreaser for optimal preparation of fiberglass and gelcoat surfaces.
• Effective contaminant removal, including wax, fiberglass agents, oil, grease, tar and other residues.
• Versatile use on fiberglass/GRP above and below the waterline, as well as bare steel, alloy and epoxy resin.
• Promotes good adhesion by ensuring a properly cleaned surface before sanding and coating.
• Ready-to-use solvent mixture of acetate and hydrocarbon.
• Professional application method using multiple clean, lint-free rags or paper towels for true removal rather than redistribution of contamination.
• Not suitable for degreasing one-component paint or varnish systems.

Technical specifications

• Type: Mixture of acetate and hydrocarbon (solvent mixture).
• Appearance: Fluid; color according to product specification.
• Odor: Characteristic.
• pH (20 °C / 68 °F): 4.
• Boiling range: >139 °C (>282.2 °F).
• Flash point: >25 °C (>77 °F).
• Ignition temperature: 315 °C (599 °F).
• Explosion limits in air: 1.5–10.8 Vol %.
• Vapor pressure (20 °C / 68 °F): 3.4 hPa (2.6 mm Hg).
• Density (20 °C / 68 °F): 0.93–0.97 kg/dm³ (approx. 7.76 lbs/gal).
• Kinematic viscosity (20 °C / 68 °F): 0.9 mm²/s.
• Solubility in water (20 °C / 68 °F): 220 g/l.
• Organic solvent content: 100 %.
• VOC content (SDS): 930 g/l (7.76 lb/gal).
• VOC level (product sheet): 344 g/liter.
• Packing: 1000 ml and 5000 ml.
• Shelf life: 3 years in closed container stored in a dark and dry location between 41–77 °F.
• Classification (GHS): Flammable liquid, Category 3; Acute Toxicity Category 4 (skin, inhalation); Skin Irritation Category 2; Eye Irritation Category 2A; STOT SE Category 3 (respiratory irritation); STOT RE Category 2; Aspiration Hazard Category 1.
• Signal word: Danger.
• Hazard statements: H226, H312+H332, H315, H319, H335, H373, H304.

Applications and use cases

• Fiberglass/GRP cleaning: Degreasing of fiberglass surfaces above and below the waterline before sanding and coating.
• Gelcoat preparation: Removal of wax and oily residues from gelcoat to ensure proper adhesion of subsequent coatings.
• Metal surface cleaning: Suitable for cleaning bare steel and alloy surfaces where removal of oil, grease, tar or similar contamination is required.
• Epoxy resin preparation: Cleaning and degreasing of epoxy resin surfaces before overcoating.

Recommended application method

1. Use multiple clean, lint-free rags or paper towels.
2. Soak a cloth with Epifanes Fiberglass Prep Cleaner and thoroughly wipe the surface.
3. Immediately follow with a second clean, dry cloth to wipe the surface dry.
4. Turn and replace rags or towels frequently so that contamination is removed rather than redistributed.
5. Degrease before sanding to avoid sanding contaminants into the surface.

Epifanes Fiberglass Prep Cleaner is not suitable for degreasing one-component paint or varnish systems.

FAQ

1. What types of surfaces can I clean with Epifanes Fiberglass Prep Cleaner?

It is designed for fiberglass/GRP, especially gelcoat surfaces above and below the waterline, and is also suitable for bare steel, alloy and epoxy resin.

2. When should I use this cleaner during surface preparation?

Degreasing must be carried out before sanding to prevent contaminants from being sanded into sanding marks.

3. Can I use this product on one-component paints or varnishes?

No. Epifanes Fiberglass Prep Cleaner is not suited for degreasing one-component paint or varnish systems.

4. How should I apply the cleaner for best results?

Apply with a cloth soaked in the cleaner, then immediately wipe dry with a second clean cloth. Use multiple lint-free rags or paper towels and replace them frequently.

5. Is the product flammable?

Yes. It is a flammable liquid and vapor (GHS Category 3). Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.

6. What should I do if the product comes into contact with my eyes or skin?

For eyes, rinse thoroughly with tap water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention. For skin, wash immediately with water and soap and avoid prolonged or repeated contact.

7. Can I use this cleaner indoors?

Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Avoid breathing vapors and ensure adequate ventilation or use appropriate respiratory protection.

8. How should I store the product?

Store in the original, tightly closed container in a cool, well-ventilated, dark and dry location between 41–77 °F, away from heat, open flame and sources of ignition.

9. What should I do with leftover product and empty containers?

Do not dispose of with household garbage and do not allow product to reach the sewage system. Dispose of contents and containers in accordance with local, regional, national and international regulations.

Section 14 – Transport information

• UN number: UN1263.
• UN proper shipping name (DOT): CONSUMER COMMODITY, ORM-D; Paint related material.
• UN proper shipping name (ADR): 1263 PAINT RELATED MATERIAL, ENVIRONMENTALLY HAZARDOUS.
• UN proper shipping name (IMDG): CONSUMER COMMODITY, ORM-D; PAINT RELATED MATERIAL.
• UN proper shipping name (IATA): PAINT RELATED MATERIAL.
• Transport hazard class: Class 3, Flammable liquids (label 3).
• Packing group: III.
• Marine pollutant: No.
• Special ADR marking: Symbol (fish and tree).
• Special precautions for user: Warning: Flammable liquids.
• Kemler code (ADR): 30.
• EMS number (IMDG): F-E, S-E.
• Stowage category: A.
• Quantity limitations (DOT): Passenger aircraft/rail: 60 L; cargo aircraft only: 220 L.
• Limited quantities (IMDG): 5 L.
• Excepted quantities (EQ): Code E1 – maximum 30 ml per inner packaging, 1000 ml per outer packaging.

Section 8 – Individual protection measures

When handling Epifanes Fiberglass Prep Cleaner, follow the personal protection recommendations indicated by the manufacturer.

General hygienic measures

• Keep away from foodstuffs, beverages and feed.
• Immediately remove all soiled and contaminated clothing.
• Wash hands before breaks and at the end of work.
• Store protective clothing separately.
• Avoid contact with eyes and skin.

Eye and face protection

• Use suitable protective glasses or tightly sealed goggles.

Hand and skin protection

• Wear protective clothing and gloves resistant to solvents.
• For permanent contact, gloves made of butyl rubber with a thickness of 0.7 mm and breakthrough time > 480 minutes (EN 374) are indicated as suitable.
• For splash protection, gloves made of chloroprene rubber (CR) 0.5 mm or nitrile rubber (NBR) 0.4 mm are indicated as suitable (protection index ≥ 2, ≥ 30 minutes permeability time to EN 374).

Respiratory protection

• Use appropriate breathing apparatus.
• Suitable respiratory protective device is recommended, especially where ventilation is insufficient.
• For brief exposure or low pollution, use a respiratory filter device; for intensive or prolonged exposure, use respiratory protective equipment independent of circulating air.
• Filter type: AX.

Additional safety information

• This product is flammable and harmful when inhaled.
• Avoid breathing vapor and avoid contact with eyes and prolonged or repeated contact with skin.
• Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
• Take precautionary measures against static discharges.
• Store in a cool, well-ventilated area and keep container tightly closed after each use.
• Do not empty into drains or allow product to reach surface or ground water.

Contenido generado por IA