3M SCPM-3 vs Tape Man Blue Clear masking paper

Discussion in 'Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building' started by Bullshipper, Mar 28, 2021.

  1. Bullshipper
    Joined: May 2008
    Posts: 148
    Likes: 6, Points: 18, Legacy Rep: 21
    Location: Mexico

    Bullshipper Bullshipper

    I put this on the materials thread for 3 days with no response, so I'll try here to see if I can get more attention.

    After washing newly molded parts, I am looking for a way to protect their gelcoat surfaces during storage and assembly when taping in.

    I have found 3m's SCPM-3 on the internet and the much cheaper Tape man blue 3.5 mil thick translucent paers. But I don't think that 3.5 mils of what I assume to be preally just plastic is as thick as I need to prevent even light scratches, and strangely enough, 3M does not spec the ply thickness for the SCPM-3 in their TDS, application guides or sales brocheres from what I can see.

    The SCPM is about 350% more expensive x ft sq and due to the size of the rolls, runs from $200-500 USD per order. Ordering on the internet does not allow one to feel or peel it in person prior to buying a lot of quantity.


    Does any one know how thick or tough it is? Perhaps 10 mils? I am also wondering if their light adhesive will come off easily after 3-4 months, and if it requires low humidity storage in the shade?

    Would you recommend either one, or something else?????

    Thanks
     
  2. ondarvr
    Joined: Dec 2005
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    Location: Monroe WA

    ondarvr Senior Member

    There can be problems with adhesive type protective materials on newly built gel coated parts. You can get discolored and/or a slight swelling of the surface under it.
     
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  3. Bullshipper
    Joined: May 2008
    Posts: 148
    Likes: 6, Points: 18, Legacy Rep: 21
    Location: Mexico

    Bullshipper Bullshipper

    Good to know. thanks.
    Will waiting more time to cure out avoid this?
    Plain stretch wrap seems too thin.
    Any thing else you can suggest?
     

  4. ondarvr
    Joined: Dec 2005
    Posts: 2,929
    Likes: 573, Points: 113, Legacy Rep: 506
    Location: Monroe WA

    ondarvr Senior Member

    Longer cure times help, but you may still experience problems.

    Boat builders run into this when they shrink-wrap new boats for transport.

    It will be worse during the winter if it's cool and damp.
     
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