OVERVIEW
A need was identified for a locally made covering system. The imported American systems where good but very expensive. After much experimentation it was decided to stick to the time proven Nitrate/ butyrate system. This system was easy to use (ideal for first time builders) and relatively inexpensive.
After years of searching we found an industrial chemist who specialized in the manufacturing of nitrates & butyrate’s and so the “Aero-Muti Covering System” was born. The chemist did intensive research and decided to manufacture the nitrate & butyrate to the US & British mil-specs. The result ensured that the FAA requirements were exceeded.As the FAA specs where exceeded it was determined that the formula could be modified to allow for the use of a common reducer for the nitrate & butyrate. (Imported dopes have separate reducers, very expensive). The result was that the Nitrate and Butyrate could now be reduced with good quality Lacquer thinners. Once again the “Local is lekker, Made in RSA” philosophy was proven.
Once the Nitrate and Butyrate had been proven it was time to look at the fabric cement. The cement is now nitrate based (those used to Rando-bond will feel quite comfortable with this product) and thus blends well with the nitrate sealer.
The fabric used on the Bushbaby aircraft (more than 120 a/c covered with it) is a light weight 2.2 oz. The fabric performs well and is ideal for very light aircraft.
We have had so many requests for a 2.7oz fabric (equivalent to Ceconite 102) that we are busy having some heavier fabric made. Once in production we intend to first certify (SACAA) the 2.7 oz fabric and then the lighter material.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
The "aero-muti" fabric covering process was developed around locally (south-African) manufactured products and works as well as any equivalent imported product. All components (fabric, cement, sealer and solvents) were developed to have no adverse effects on each other. It is 'important not to substitute materials, cement, sealer or use other thinners or solvents than those supplied 'in the kit.
The following are the products in the "AERO-MUTI" covering system:
FABRIC (2.2 oz)
The polyester covering material supplied is of very high quality, strength and is flight proven. It utilizes the natural characteristics of a heat stretched thermoplastic synthetic filaments to return to the original shorter length when reheated. Polyester has all the well-balanced characteristics needed for an aircraft fabric. If properly applied and UV-protected the polyester has an indefinite life.
To match the unique characteristics of polyester, a durable cement and fabric sealer combination was developed using a low acid, nitro cellulose basis.
FABRIC CEMENT (CF-5A, “fabric-bond”)
A high strength adhesive used to attach the fabric to the structure (airframe). It is also used to attach the surface tapes and reinforcement patches. Since early 2004 we have moved away from rubber based adhesive to a nitrocellulose based adhesive.
CEMENT REDUCER
Use acetone or lacquer thinners. Reducer for the cement for easier application of cement by brush or bottle, removal of glue spills from the fabric and/or reactivating of cured cement.
NITRATE FABRIC SEALER (Also called "DOPE") (CF-6A)
This first fabric coating is used to create a mechanical bond between the fabric and the butyrate sealer.
BUTYRATE SEALER. (CF-6C)
A highly flexible and tough sealer (Seals the fabric weave), and acts as a base coat for the UV-Butyrate. The Butyrate is less flammable (flame retardant) than the nitrate. If the heat source (flame) is removed the butyrate stops burning
REDUCER FOR NITRATE AND BUTYRATE
The “Aero-muti” nitrate and butyrate has been adapted to allow the use of normal lacquer thinners. Always try and use good quality 300 lacquer thinners.
UV-PROTECTION (UV-PASTE) (CF-6AP)
The sun's ultraviolet radiation is polyesters' worst enemy. Unprotected in the sun for one year, the fabric may lose 70% of' its strength. To counter the sun’s Ultra-violet rays, a special pigment is added to the butyrate that not only protects the fabric and gives it an undetermined fabric life; it also forms a good sanding base for final paint application
PIGMENTED BUTYRATE
Available in: standard white or Piper Cub yellow. Custom colours can be mixed.
FAQ
-
WHAT PAINT
IF NOT THE PIGMENTED BUTYRATE?
-
HOW MUCH DO
I NEED?
|
Product |
Part # |
Unit |
Qty |
Remarks |
|
Fabric |
CC-4 |
Roll (33m) |
1 |
|
|
Fabric Cement |
CF-5A |
Litre |
3 |
|
|
Nitrate
sealer |
CF-6A |
Litre |
10 |
|
|
Butyrate sealer |
CF-6C |
Litre |
25 |
Enough for UV
coat as well |
|
UV-Paste |
CF-6AP |
20gram |
10 |
20g per litre
of butyrate. |
|
Pigmented
butyrate |
CF-6W |
Litre |
20 |
|