and Lightning Protection Film AF 536

Product Application Guidelines

Where the AF 536 includes a conductor, it is intended to be applied so the surface of the film adjacent to the paper liner becomes the

exterior surface of the cured part.

Proper application of AF 536 surfacing film is a key factor in achieving a smooth, void-free surface. The major objective of the

following procedure is to minimize air entrapment between the surfacing film and the tool surface or composite material. Improper

lay-up or debulking could result in a rough surface that may require additional finishing.

AF 536 Preparation

1. Allow AF 536 surfacing film to warm to room temperature before removing

the roll from the sealed poly bag. Bag should be dry and free of condensation

before opening.

2. AF 536 is provided in roll form. This material may be cut on automated cutting

equipment designed for composite kit cutting.

3. Completely remove the paper liner from cut pieces at a 180 degree angle in one

motion to prevent wrinkling and transfer of adhesive to the paper liner. This will

minimize damage and provide optimal handling characteristics.

Guidelines for Application on a Tool Surface

1. After removing the paper liner, apply the film to a tool surface treated with mold

release agent. A gradual rolling out technique is suggested. Remove entrapped

air with a rubber roller. Use firm pressure and roll from the center of the film toward

the edges, gradually working air out from under the film. Remove enough poly

liner for adjacent films to overlap as needed. Repeat as needed to cover the

designated area.

2. Cover AF 536 surfacing film with a release film, breather cloth, and vacuum

bag. Debulk using standard vacuum bagging procedures. A minimum of 635 mm

(25 in.) Hg and a temperature of 16 to 27°C (60 to 80°F) for duration of five

minutes is suggested.

3. Carefully remove the bag, breather cloth and release film.

4. Remove remaining liners. Complete the layup and cure.

Guidelines for Application on a Debulked

Prepreg Layup

1. If the AF 536 film includes a conductor, replace the paper liner with a conformable

polymer liner (not supplied). Remove the blue poly liner that was provided with the

AF 536 film and apply the film to the debulked prepreg layup surface. A gradual

rolling out technique is suggested. Remove entrapped air with a rubber roller.

Use firm pressure and roll from the center of the film toward the edges, gradually

working air out of the part. Remove enough poly liner for adjacent films to overlap

as needed. Repeat as needed to cover the designated area.

2. Cover AF 536 surfacing film with a release film, breather cloth, and vacuum

bag. Debulk using standard vacuum bagging procedures. A minimum of 635 mm

(25 in.) Hg and a temperature of 16 to 27°C (60 to 80°F) for duration of five

minutes is suggested.

3. Carefully remove the bag, breather cloth and release film.

4. Remove remaining liners. Complete the layup and cure.

Note: While this information is provided as a general application guideline based upon typical conditions, it is recognized that no two applications are

identical due to differing assemblies, method of heat and pressure application, production equipment and other limitations. It is therefore suggested

that experiments be run, within the actual constraints imposed, to determine optimum conditions for your specific application and to determine

suitability of product for particular intended use.