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Use Square Open Cell Backing Rod for: Maintaining consistent sealant shape, preventing three-sided adhesion, and supporting sealant curing in square or rectangular construction joints.
Square Open Cell Backing Rod is a medium-density, firm, open-cell polyurethane foam designed for professional sealant applications in joints with square or rectangular profiles. Its "non-gassing" feature ensures faster sealant curing by allowing air to permeate, which is crucial for achieving durable and effective seals. Ideal for use in expansion joints, precast panel construction, and any application requiring a consistent square backing shape, this rod provides a reliable bond breaker, preventing three-sided adhesion and ensuring the sealant cures correctly. Its firm structure allows it to maintain its shape, providing uniform support.
Key Features of Square Open Cell Backing Rod
- Consistent Square Shape: Maintains a uniform shape for consistent sealant application in square or rectangular joints.
- Non-Gassing Properties: Allows sealants to cure from both sides, speeding up the curing process and enhancing performance.
- Versatile Compatibility: Works with a wide range of sealants, including acrylic, silicone, polyurethane, and hot pour types, providing flexibility for various projects.
- Firm and Resilient: Provides reliable support and maintains its shape under compression, ensuring a consistent and effective seal.
- Bond Breaker Function: Prevents three-sided adhesion, ensuring the sealant performs as intended and avoids premature failure.
Technical Overview
Square Open Cell Backing Rod is engineered to provide optimal support for sealants in construction joints with square or rectangular profiles. Its open-cell structure allows for air permeability, essential for proper sealant curing. The material's compressibility ensures it stays in place, maintaining the correct joint depth and shape. Its wide temperature range and chemical resistance make it suitable for diverse environmental conditions and applications.
Chemical Properties: Open-cell polyurethane foam, providing a breathable backing for various sealants.
Application Temperature Range: -40°C to +70°C, suitable for a wide range of Australian climates. Service temperature ranges from -60°C to intermittent 260°C.
Application Information
- Required Tools: Backing Rod Insertion Tool (TOOLBACKROD), sealant application tools.
- Trade-Specific Tips: Ensure the backing rod is compressed by at least 25% of its original dimension for optimal performance. Use the insertion tool to maintain consistent depth. Match the square backing rod size to the joint profile for optimal results.
- Common Issues and Solutions: Avoid excessive stretching during installation. Ensure the joint is clean and prepared according to the sealant manufacturer's instructions.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Storage Requirements: Store in a cool, dry place between 10°C and 35°C, away from direct sunlight.
- Shelf Life Information: 5 years when stored as recommended.
- Temperature Considerations: Avoid storing in extreme temperatures to maintain product integrity.
Certifications
- ASTM D3574 standards for foam properties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Square Open Cell Backing Rod
Q: How do I choose the correct size of square backing rod?
A: Select a backing rod that is approximately 25% larger than the joint width and matches the square profile. This ensures it stays in place and provides the correct depth for the sealant.
Q: Is the square backing rod compatible with all sealants?
A: Yes, Square Open Cell Backing Rod is compatible with a wide range of sealants, including acrylic, silicone, polyurethane, and hot pour types.
Q: What is the benefit of using a square backing rod?
A: Square backing rods maintain a consistent shape for uniform sealant application in square or rectangular joints.
Q: Can this backing rod be used in swimming pools?
A: It is not recommended for internal swimming pool applications due to potential exposure to high levels of chlorine.
Q: How should I store this square backing rod?
A: Store it in a cool, dry place between 10°C and 35°C, away from direct sunlight, to maintain its quality and performance.
Use Square Open Cell Backing Rod for:
- Expansion joints with square or rectangular profiles in concrete and masonry.
- Precast panel construction with square or rectangular joint designs.
- Creating a bond breaker in sealant applications requiring a square backing shape.
- Ensuring proper sealant depth and shape in square or rectangular joints.
- Supporting cold-applied acrylic, silicone, PU, MS, SPUR, and hybrid sealants in square or rectangular profiles.
Why Use Square Open Cell Backing Rod:
- Maintains a consistent square shape for uniform sealant application.
- Ensures faster sealant curing due to its breathable open-cell structure.
- Provides a reliable bond breaker, preventing three-sided adhesion.
- Accommodates various joint sizes with its range of square dimensions.
- Simplifies application with its user-friendly and compressible nature.
How to apply Square Open Cell Backing Rod:
- Prepare the joint surfaces as per the sealant manufacturer's instructions.
- Select a square backing rod that is 25% larger than the joint width and matches the profile.
- Insert the backing rod into the joint, ensuring it is compressed by at least 25% of its original dimension.
- Use a Backing Rod Insertion Tool if you have one to maintain consistent depth.
- Apply the sealant according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Square Open Cell Backing Rod limitations:
- Not suitable for UV exposed applications.
- Avoid excessive longitudinal stretching during installation.
- Not suitable for internal swimming pool applications due to chlorine exposure.
- Do not use where sealant is heated and applied above +70ºC.
Safety precautions when using Square Open Cell Backing Rod:
- Personal Protective Equipment: Wear appropriate gloves and eye protection if needed.
- Ventilation: General ventilation is sufficient.
- Handling: Handle with care to avoid excessive stretching.
Square Open Cell Backing Rod can be used on the following substrates:
- Masonry, Brick, Stone Porcelain
- Metal, Aluminium
- Timber
- Plastics, Fibreglass
- Painted surfaces
- Rubber
- Powder coat
- Waterproof membranes.
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