I need an explaination of flox

cjensen · #1 11-13-2006, 08:55 AM

I've searched for an explaination of just what this stuff is, but I have come up empty so far. I've scrutinized the Boat US cataloge (yeah, the 500 page one

), and I can't even find the word 'flox' used in there. I know there are microfibers, microballoons, and such, but just what is flox? I'm gonna need some soon...

Thanks!!

tagold · #2 11-13-2006, 09:12 AM

Flox is a term used for stuctural filler. It's used in corners and hardpoints in composite construction. Flox is chopped up cotton fibers mixed with epoxy to a thick consistancy.

Don't confuse flox with "micro". Micro is glass balloons mixed with epoxy that is used for non-structural filler.

Hopefully that helps a bit.

pierre smith · #3 11-13-2006, 09:15 AM

Chad,
I was told that flox is simply ground up fiberglass strands. Really handy for thickening up the resin to locate screws such as the taillight lens cover and a few other places where a little buildup is needed,
Regards,

painless · #4 11-13-2006, 09:22 AM

What I want to know is where do you get the stuff?? Is it in the Wicks and ACS catalogs, cuz if it is, I sure have been missing it.

I went to my local marina and they looked at me like I was from Mars or something when I asked for it.

So where can you get it??

Regards,

az_gila · #5 11-13-2006, 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by painless

What I want to know is where do you get the stuff?? Is it in the Wicks and ACS catalogs, cuz if it is, I sure have been missing it.

I went to my local marina and they looked at me like I was from Mars or something when I asked for it.

So where can you get it??

Regards,

Jeff,

They hid it in the Aircraft $pruce catalog....

It's here, along with a description...

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...ckedcotton.php

gil in Tucson

kevinh · #6 11-13-2006, 09:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by painless

What I want to know is where do you get the stuff?? Is it in the Wicks and ACS catalogs, cuz if it is, I sure have been missing it.

The raw material to make flox (cotton + epoxy) is 'flocked cotton fiber.' Probably the cheapest thing in the AS&S catalog ;-) - PN 01-14800. When you mix it make it nice and thick - much easier to work with than if you use too much epoxy and make it runny.

Micro is also listed on the same page (as cab-o-sil). Micro is super light (made from fallen angels

) and will instantly float up into the air - use a mask.

tagold · #7 11-13-2006, 09:29 AM

Jeff,

Try this link...

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...ckedcotton.php

The one pound bag should be plenty. You will also need some epoxy. A quart of epoxy will go a long way. When you start working with this stuff, you will see why we build metal airplanes.

az_gila · #8 11-13-2006, 09:30 AM

Another variation is here... with description... sticjk withg the other stuff though, sounds safer...

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...lledfibers.php

gil in Tucson

RV7Guy · #9 11-13-2006, 09:56 AM

Hey Chad,

You've got the answer for flox. There is also milled fiberglass that does basically the same purpose. Also there is micro filler and micro balloons. Basically the same stuff. There are several different degrees of micro filler. Generally, not for structural applications.

Now if you are still considering the Subaru engine, you might want to get the JB Weld in the caulking gun size for mods and repairs.

cjensen · #10 11-13-2006, 10:12 AM

Thanks for the quick responses guys!! This helps immensly!!

Darwin...No Sube for you!! That's my new saying...