Technical Knowledge
Precautions for Using Power Trowels in Epoxy Floor Substrate Preparation
In epoxy flooring construction, power trowels are primarily used for smoothing and leveling the concrete substrate.
It is crucial to note that the requirements for the substrate in epoxy flooring differ significantly from those for ordinary hardened floors. While ordinary floors strive for a "shinier, better" finish, improper substrate preparation for epoxy flooring (such as excessive burnishing) can lead to delamination and peeling later on.
The following are key precautions for using power trowels in epoxy floor substrate preparation:
1. Excessive burnishing is strictly prohibited.
This is the most important point.
Problem: High-speed power trowels at large blade angles can create a "singeing" or "smoothing" effect, forming an extremely dense, hard, and smooth metallic sheen layer (sealing layer) on the concrete surface.
Consequence: This dense film seals the concrete's pores, preventing epoxy primer from penetrating and resulting in extremely poor adhesion. The flooring is prone to peeling off in large sections later on, almost like "peeling off" the skin.
Consequence: This dense film seals the concrete's pores, preventing epoxy primer from penetrating and resulting in extremely poor adhesion. The flooring is prone to peeling off in large sections later on, almost like "peeling off" the skin.
Recommendation: Only perform moderate polishing. Ensure a smooth surface, but maintain some microporous structure (presenting a matte or slightly textured finish).
2. The use of "curing agents" or "sealants" is strictly prohibited.
During the use of a power trowel, workers may spray curing agents to prevent excessive moisture evaporation.
Note: Most oil-based or silicone-based curing agents are incompatible with epoxy resin. If curing is necessary, please use a water spraying method, or confirm that the curing agent is "removable" or "epoxy-compatible."
3. Controlling Smoothness (FF/FL Value)
Epoxy flooring is typically thin (1mm – 5mm), and it cannot conceal unevenness in the subfloor like a cement leveling layer.
Procedure: Initial leveling must be performed using **float pans** to eliminate waviness during paving.Standard: For precision epoxy flooring, the smoothness error within a 2-meter straightedge range should be ≤ 2mm – 3mm. If the surface is not leveled during the troweling stage, expensive epoxy mortar will be required for later leveling.
4. Details of Machine Operation
Blade Angle: Maintain a small blade angle. A larger angle results in more concentrated pressure, making it easier to create an overly dense finish.
Intervention Timing: Finish the finishing process slightly earlier than for regular floor finishing. Stop the machine as soon as the surface is smooth and there are no obvious blade marks.
Edge Treatment: Corners and column edges that the power trowel cannot reach must be smoothed by hand with a trowel; otherwise, these protrusions will be difficult to remove with a sander later.
5. Post-treatment: Mechanical grinding is mandatory.
Even with a perfect trowel finish, surface preparation using a grinder or shot blaster is essential before applying the epoxy primer.Purpose: To thoroughly remove the laitance layer created by the trowel, exposing the internal sand-grain structure (similar to the texture of coarse sandpaper), achieving CSP 2-3 (concrete surface roughness grade) standards.
Summary and Recommendations
If you are working as a base coat for epoxy flooring, the goal of using a power trowel is to achieve a **smooth, not glossy** finish.
Is your current work environment an indoor factory or an outdoor parking lot? Different environments have different requirements for the moisture content and strength (C25/C30) of the base coat. I can provide you with more detailed advice.
Note: The parameters provided in this document are for reference only and are not mandatory. Due to differences in technical characteristics between different brands and models of laser levelers, please consult the manufacturer for a suitable solution before actual operation. This reference document assumes no responsibility for any issues arising from failure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
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About the Author: Shandong Vanse Machinery Technology Co., Ltd.
Shandong Vanse Machinery Technology Co., Ltd. is a high-tech manufacturer specializing in concrete construction machinery, including laser screeds and related equipment. The company integrates R&D, production, and global sales, with products exported to over 60 countries and widely used in infrastructure projects worldwide.
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