Loctite Frekote B-15 is a mold sealer used to prepare new or porous composite mold surfaces before applying a release agent, helping FRP fabricators achieve consistent part release and extend mold life. Buyers sourcing Loctite Frekote B-15 for gelcoat and laminate molding operations use it as the foundation step in mold preparation, with a specific gravity of 0.745 to 0.775 and a release agent transfer rating of 4 or higher indicating strong compatibility with subsequent Frekote release coatings.
Why Mold Shops Choose Loctite Frekote B-15 for Mold Preparation
New composite molds and porous mold surfaces need to be sealed before a release agent is applied, otherwise the release coating can be absorbed unevenly and lead to inconsistent part release. This product is formulated to fill mold surface porosity and provide a stable base layer, which is why it is specified as the first step before applying Frekote release agents on new or reconditioned tooling.
Typical Properties of Uncured Material
| Specific Gravity @ 25 °C | 0.745 to 0.775 |
| Release Agent Transfer | ≥4 |
The release agent transfer rating helps mold shops evaluating Loctite Frekote B-15 confirm compatibility before committing to a full mold sealing program, since a low transfer rating could interfere with the performance of the topcoat release agent applied afterward.
Application Procedure for Mold Sealing
- Apply to mold surfaces by spraying, brushing, dipping, or wiping with a clean, lint-free cotton cloth. When spraying, use a dry air source or an airless spray system, keeping the nozzle 20 to 25 cm from the mold surface.
- Brushing and dipping are effective, but avoid excessive pooling and ensure the part is well drained; wiping on is generally the best application method.
- Only a thin wet film is required. Coat small areas progressively, working from one mold to the next.
- Apply a minimum of two coats, allowing 30 minutes between coats.
- The final coat cures within 24 hours at 23°C, or curing can be shortened by baking the mold for 60 minutes at 95°C once the mold is dry and solvents have flashed off.
- Once sealed, the mold is ready to be coated with a Frekote release agent; fabricators should refer to the specific release agent’s data sheet for proper application.
Following this two-coat sealing sequence before applying the release agent helps mold shops achieve more consistent release performance across production runs, particularly on molds that see frequent demolding cycles.
Sourcing Loctite Frekote B-15 Alongside Composite Materials
Since mold sealers are typically ordered alongside gelcoat and resin systems used in the same molding operation, purchasing it together with other composite raw materials can help buyers consolidate freight and reduce the number of vendor relationships needed for a project. As a recommended international brand product available through our supply chain resource support, it can be quoted alongside resin, gelcoat, and other release agent products for overseas composite manufacturers.
For background on mold release and surface preparation practices referenced in composite manufacturing, buyers can consult the ASTM D20 committee on plastics.
Storage and Handling Notes
This mold sealer should be stored in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and kept tightly sealed between uses to protect shelf life. Mold shops working across multiple tools should track which molds have been sealed with this product to avoid re-applying unnecessarily, since a properly sealed mold typically does not need to be resealed before every release agent application.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loctite Frekote B-15
What is Loctite Frekote B-15 used for?
It is a mold sealer applied to new or porous composite mold surfaces before a release agent, to provide a stable base layer for consistent part release.
How many coats are recommended?
A minimum of two coats is recommended, with 30 minutes allowed between coats for proper film formation.
How long does the final coat take to cure?
The final coat cures within 24 hours at 23°C, or curing can be accelerated by baking the mold for 60 minutes at 95°C once solvents have flashed off.
What application method is recommended?
Wiping on with a clean, lint-free cotton cloth is generally the best method, though spraying, brushing, and dipping are also effective when applied correctly.
Can this sealer be sourced with gelcoat and resin orders?
Yes, it is commonly quoted alongside gelcoat, resin, and release agent orders for composite fabricators consolidating their mold preparation supplies.
Request a Quote for Loctite Frekote B-15
If your mold shop needs a reliable sealer to prepare new or porous molds before applying a release agent, contact our team for a quotation on this product alongside your gelcoat, resin, and release agent orders. We can help plan volumes and coordinate delivery as part of a broader composite materials sourcing package.
