Multiple releases, no buffing
XTEND 818+ is a blend of film-forming curing resins and solvent. Once wiped onto the mold, the coating air-cures into a durable bonded film that releases multiple composite parts at ambient and elevated temperatures. The product is non-HAPs.
Main applications
- Open molding and high-production parts such as bathtubs and boats
- Parts requiring a Class A finish
- Polyester, vinyl ester and epoxy resins
- Seasoned FRP molds and metal molds
Physical properties
Mold preparation
- Seasoned and metal molds: the surface must be free of contaminants and previous release agents.
- New molds: apply 2–4 coats of XTEND XTR sealer before XTEND 818+.
- Repaired areas: apply at least 2 coats of XTR sealer.
Application
- Use clean, lint-free industrial paper towels. Wet the towel just enough and wring it so the release is evenly absorbed without dripping.
- Wipe lightly in straight lines, one pass per area, then let it dry – do not rework a coat. On large molds, work in small sections from edge to edge.
- Clean mold in good condition: apply 3–4 coats.
- Allow at least 15 minutes between coats. Below 20°C, allow longer.
- Use a fresh towel for every coat. Change towels if streaks appear; an over-wet towel causes streaking.
- Allow about 30 minutes after the final coat before production.
- Recoat lightly after the 1st, 3rd and 5th release. Recoat high-wear areas and thin edges regularly.
Natural-bristle brushes or rollers can be used on complex corners, avoiding puddling on the mold surface.
Mold maintenance
- Sticking: wipe the area with XTEND 818+ to dissolve the build-up. If it remains, scrub lightly with a pad wetted with XTEND 818+, then recoat.
- Remaining build-up: scrub with AXEL CX-500 mold cleaner (removes build-up without removing the release film), then apply 1–2 coats of XTEND 818+, 10 minutes per coat.
- Heavy build-up (common in closed molding): clean with CX-525 and CX-200HS. The mold returns to an untreated state and must be prepared from the start.
- Full release removal: use CX-200HS, then wash with water and CX-500.
Storage
Moisture sensitive: keep tightly closed, minimize air exposure, never pour unused material back into the container, and do not dilute. Store between 0°C and 39°C. Decant into small, clean HDPE bottles with tight shampoo-style caps; for large drums, use a desiccant breather.
Frequently asked questions
How many coats of XTEND 818+ are needed?
On a clean mold in good condition: 3–4 coats, at least 15 minutes between coats and about 30 minutes after the final coat.
Can XTEND 818+ be used on new molds?
Yes, after 2–4 coats of XTEND XTR sealer.
Does it need buffing?
No. XTEND 818+ is wiped on and requires no buffing.
Which resins is it for?
Polyester, vinyl ester and epoxy.
How do I fix streaks on the mold?
Streaks usually come from an over-wet towel. Let the coat cure, then wipe lightly with a clean dry cloth; use a fresh towel for the next coat.
How should XTEND 818+ be stored?
Keep tightly closed as it is moisture sensitive; store at 0–39°C. Shelf life is 12 months in an unopened sealed container.
Data on this page is taken from the AXEL Plastics XTEND 818+ technical data sheet. Number of coats, cure time and recoat schedule should be adjusted to mold condition, shop temperature and resin type.