micro-mesh

On Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 8:27:40 PM UTC-7, wrote:
Has anyone used the micro-mesh kits? My canopy had an unfortunate meeting with the ramp today, and after two hours with Novas #3 it still needs attention. It is an acrylic material, and the scratches are not really deep, but I can fell them with my finger.. I flew it after the incident, and my visibility was okay? Off to look for more booze in this house.
Thank you!
MT

About 12 years ago or so my Libelle canopy went flying off from behind my head after landing at a windy airport and did a pirouette on the tarmac.
The lesson learned obviously is that if you own a one piece canopy (I don't own this Libelle any longer), wait until help arrives and secure the canopy on real windy days.
The canopy had numerous deep scratches, I almost cried.
My mentor Marty Eiler instructed me on the proper procedures and must say it worked out very well but took more time than I care to admit to fix it.
I think I started wet sending with 150 grid, utilizing a strong flood light under the canopy, and a strong magnifying glass until the scratches were no longer visible. It is critical to sand with even strokes, than followed up with the next higher grid on a 45 angle, again until the previous sanding is no longer visible through the magnifier.
And so on, all the way up to 2000 grid. If the scratches are not as deep as mine were, I would start off with a much higher grid than you think you need, and lower the grid if it does not completely eliminate the scratches.
Marty helped me out on the end with a power polisher and compound but one certainly can do this by hand with the polishing compound in the micro mash kit provided.
The real trick here is tons of patient, don't try to do this the day before you want to fly, it will never happen, best to leave for the off season, many nights out in the garage or basement.
6PK