What is P-Tex?
P-tex is a tradename for the polyethylene base material used on skis and snowboards. Sintered p-tex is made by packing ultra high molecular weight polyethylene powder into a cake that is heated and compressed (sintered) to form a log or billet (see diagram below).
Do you need to wax after PTEX?
Definitely before waxing. As you thought, PTEX candles are made of the same material as the base is made of… so you want the clean the gouge area of any dirt, debris or wax… if you can lightly sand the area to give the new PTEX material some surface to stick on to.
Does PTEX absorb wax?
Often referred to by the trade name p-tex, it’s a strong and impact-resistant substance with a low friction coefficient. Because p-tex is porous, almost like a sponge, it can absorb wax time and time again.
Can you replace ski edges?
It is possible to replace sections of edge but it’s major surgery requiring the p-tex to be cut back & then patching in once the edge has been replaced.
How do you stop P-Tex from cracking?
Follow the lines of the gouges while maintaining a steady trickle to fill the holes along their length. If you’re filling deeper holes (like core shots), pass over them once, let the ptex cool and then pass over them again. Overfilling a deep hole in one hit can cause the ptex to crack.
Can you use a plastic scraper for PTEX?
a SHARP plastic scraper will work for removing wax and ptex. there is no need for a metal scraper if you have a sharp plastic one, and a plastic one wont screw up your edges or bases(as much) if you use too much pressure.
How long to let PTEX cool before scraping?
The P-Tex will shrink as it cools, so overfill it. Do a second round if necessary then extinguish the flame. Let the P-Tex cool about 15 minutes. Take a sharpened metal scraper with a 90-degree edge and hold it at a 45-degree angle.
What is PTEX made out of?
P-Tex, on the other hand, is made of an ultra-high-molecular-weight version of polyethylene (UHMW for short). This means that each chain of ethylene molecules is very, very long: hundreds of thousands of repeat units long, in fact. These long chains make the material very resistant to impact (i.e., hard).
What should I do if my P-Tex Burns on the base?
If the p-tex continues to burn on the base, blow the flame out so the base does not overheat. Deeper gouges should be filled in multiple passes, allowing each layer to cool before adding the next. Any repairs on damage near the edge or very deep should begin with metal grip and a soldering iron (see video below).
How do I prevent carbon from forming when using p-tex?
To prevent carbon formation when using p-tex: The key is to maintain a blue flame (don’t let it burn orange). To do this, keep it low to the base or close to a metal scraper. This will minimize carbon buildup. First light, then, holding the candle at a 45 degree angle and rotate the lit portion against the metal scraper to get rid of the carbon.
How do you light a p-tex candle?
Light one end of a P-Tex candle with a match/torch; hold the candle above the flame. CAUTION! A P-Tex candle burns very hot (>970 F); Severe burns can result if dripped on skin. Ventilate room if you recently used fluoro waxes.