1. Preparing
B-Lite® MDO for Use B-Lite® MDO panels are factory treated
with a chemically active release agent prior to shipment.
However, Olympic Panel cannot control the length of time between
manufacture and actual use. Because the release agent's
effectiveness can dissipate over time, a light application of
release agent should be made prior to first use. This should
be a chemically reactive release agent compatible with the
factory treatment. After forms have been stripped and cleaned
(before each successive use), the panels should be re-coated
with a chemically reactive release agent using ½ to ¾ gallon
of agent per thousand square feet of panel surface.
2. Pouring and Vibrating
B-Lite® MDO resists
abrasion and impact. As with any surface, however, B-Lite® MDO
can be damaged through improper use. Rate of pour should be
limited to that assumed in the design of the form. The use of
rubber-tipped vibrators is recommended. Care should be taken
not to damage form faces during vibrating.
3. Stripping
Most form panel damage occurs during
stripping. B-Lite® MDO life can be prolonged with proper
stripping and handling. Use wood wedges rather than metal bars
or pries to separate the form from the concrete.
4. Cleaning, Storage, and Edge Sealing
Clean
panels after each use with burlap or flat, non-scratching
tools such as plastic or wood scrapers. The overlay and wood
substrate could be pulled from the panel on subsequent pours
if concrete sticks to the surface. B-Lite® MDO is factory edge
sealed. However, it is important that any cut edges or exposed
wood at holes or openings be resealed with two coats of an
appropriate sealant to retard moisture penetration and
possible panel swelling. Stack panels flat to prevent warping.
Store panels in a protected area and avoid direct sunlight to
minimize degradation.
5. Surface Repairs
It may be desirable to fill in
nicks and gouges to restore surface continuity when B-Lite®
MDO's surface becomes mechanically damaged. Clean any concrete
or release agent from the damaged area and, using a putty
knife, apply a polyester resin auto body putty (such as, but
not limited to, Bondo Auto Putty by Dynatron Bondo Company,
Atlanta, GA 30310). This and similar products are available at
auto parts stores throughout North America.
