The importance of mixing materials in powder form is often underestimated
Avoid mixing mistakes by simply using the correct stirrer, stirring rod and settings in accordance with material manufacturer specifications.
07/08/2019
Contractors, whether it be plasterers, decorators, builders, painters or even DIY enthusiasts, need to be aware of the method for professional mixing for the various types of paint, wallpaper paste, clear coat, epoxy coatings, or other two-component coatings.
Mixed incorrectly, any of these products could cause failure of the coating that results in rework and additional costs, or even structural damage.
Festool expert advises why this process in particular is so crucial and how the combination of stirrer and stirring rod play a vital role in mixing and stirring - and how these elements should be tailored to the relevant material on a product-by-product basis.
Mixing paint and products
Professional painters, painting contractors and interior decorators encounter a multitude of different materials on the job site. This includes various types of plaster, filler, paint, wallpaper paste, clear coat, reinforcement adhesive, varnish and two-component coating systems.
As a general rule, the materials used require a different stirring method, yet painters often use the same stirring rod for different materials, regardless of the manufacturer's guidelines. This can lead to the material manufacturer's warranty being rendered void due to incorrect application.
For the contractor,such an error usually ends in substantial follow-up costs and potential compensation demands from the end customer, yet the risk can be easily avoided by simply using the correct stirrer, stirring rod and settings in accordance with material manufacturer specifications.
Coating specialists
When tackling jobs such as laying floor coatings using epoxy resin or PUR - where 2-parts components need to be mixed, it is especially important to ensure that the quantities and proportion of components A and B are carefully and accurately balanced, that the timings specified by the manufacturer are kept to and that the components are mixed properly. During mixing, it is recommended to read the manufacturer specifications and to keep exactly to the specified quantity proportions and mixing speed.
If the components are mixed at too high a speed, the mixture heats up faster. This means the material sets too quickly, impairing adhesion with the underlying surface and reducing the processing time. Should this occur, damaged areas may form on the coating and adhesion issues with the underlying surface may crop up.
Plaster and self levelling mixes
Flooring specialists generally make use of a self-levelling filler when it comes to flooring, especially when the need arises to create an even sub-surface for decorative floor coverings or laminate floors. Mixing this incorrectly could form lumps and a residue of dry material, which is usually at the bottom of the mixing container. Additionally, using a conventional stirring rod that is spiralled to the right could also introduce an excessive amount of air into the material. The end result would be that the materials are not mixed into a homogeneous mass - even after long periods of stirring.
This could result in damaged areas with some material remaining in powder form or air bubbles on the surface and for this reason, it is recommended to use a suitable stirring rod and to ensure that the speed and stirring duration remain in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
In order to mix viscous reinforcement materials and plaster, we recommend using a stirring rod that is spiralled to the right and which mixes the material from the bottom to the top. This ensures that all the material is mixed evenly. However, to agitate clear coats, dispersion adhesives, wallpaper paste or thin materials, the application engineer recommends using a stirring rod that is spiralled to the left and mixes the material from top to bottom.
Stirrer specifications
For the majority of mixing materials, whether in liquid and solid form, Festool recommends a stirrer with at least 1200W and 2-gear transmission with variable speed settings. Festool stirrers can be individually adapted to the height of the operator for natural, upright and effortless working position. The Festool ErgoFix adapter, with its classic M14 tool reception, makes it possible to quickly change stirring rods (FastFix function) without the need for tools.
Before acquiring a professional mixing system, think about what requirements you encounter in your work and which materials you generally need to mix
For more information about the unique Festool products contact Vermont Sales on 011314 7711 or visit www.vermontsales.co.za. Festool is available from leading specialist outlets countrywide. For dealer information visit www.festool.co.za.