Propspeed launches new solvent-based stripper
Underwater foul-release company, Propspeed has launched Stripspeed, a new solvent-based stripper that removes foul-release coatings from underwater metals.
Stripspeed, which has been developed to help Propspeed applicators prepare metal surfaces for reapplication, removes foul-release coatings in 30 minutes or less. The firm says there is no mixing required to create the thick consistency, which easily hangs on vertical and overhead surfaces, making it easy to use.
Stripspeed is non-flammable, non-caustic, DCM- and NMP-free, and doesn’t create toxic dust or debris. Unlike grinding or using abrasives, Stripspeed doesn’t cause mechanical wear through multiple refits, increasing the lifetime of the metal. Stripspeed can be used on any metal surface where Propspeed, or similar running gear coatings have been applied.
“Propspeed is designed to adhere to underwater metals and function season after season as the ultimate protection against fouling, corrosion and electrolysis,” says Chris Baird, CEO of Propspeed.
“In discussions with our network of applicators, we have found that the most time-consuming part of reapplying Propspeed is removing the old layer. To make it easier, faster and more cost-effective for our applicators, we formulated Stripspeed to easily remove Propspeed’s Etching Primer and topcoat all at once, eliminating the hassle, mess and toxic dust or debris that other methods produce. We’ve found that in typical use, Stripspeed will reduce preparation time by approximately one-third on smooth surfaces such as propellers and shafts, with significant reduction in preparation time being observed on more complex surfaces such as swim platform armature.”
Stripspeed is used in three steps: surface preparation, application and removal. Applicators clean marine growth from the surface to be stripped and ensure it is dry. Users then pour Stripspeed into a small container and brush a generous layer onto the coating to be removed. After about 20-30 minutes, Stripspeed is ready to be removed with a metal scraper/putty knife. Any remaining residue can be washed away with water, Propclean and an abrasive pad or rag.
Stripspeed is available in two sizes: a five litre bottle, which will cover a surface of 10 sqm, and a one litre bottle which will cover a surface of two sqm.
Earlier this year, Propspeed expanded its European team, following an expansion into Italy. In December 2021, New Zealand-headquartered Propspeed announced it would be training and certifying seven coatings specialists at custom superyacht builder Pendennis Shipyard in Falmouth, United Kingdom.
