Also sometimes known as vinyl ester, vinylester is a resin product that is used as an alternative to various types of polyester or epoxy materials in the manufacturing process. Infusing epoxy molecules into a polyester resin creates the material. This type of resin material possesses many of the attributes of epoxy and polyester materials, and is sometimes considered to provide benefits that combine the best of both products. In some cases, vinylester offers advantages that are not found with either of the other type materials, making it ideal for the production of specific types of goods.
When used as coating on other types of materials, such as fiberglass, vinylester will actually increase the durability of the product more than using a polyester coating. At the same time, vinylester is more affordable than using epoxy materials, although the epoxy will often create a tighter bond with the underlying material. Assuming that using the vinylester will allow the final product to meet safety requirements and also comply with the manufacturer’s internal quality standards, this means that the goods can be produced for a lower cost per unit, allowing the manufacturer to earn more profit per unit sold.
One of the more common applications of vinylester is found in the marine industry. Components are often coated with this resin to reduce the amount of corrosion experienced by different metals and other materials as a result of exposure to salt water and the elements. The ability of the resin to repel liquids also makes it ideal for use with different types of marine products. In like manner, heavy equipment such as tanks are also often manufactured using vinylester as a protective coating, helping to slow the rate of corrosion and rust over years of regular use. The product is also used to coat components that are included in a homebuilt airplane kit, making it possible for the assembled device to hold up to the elements for a longer period of time.
Vinylester is very effective with certain types of materials, but is less useful with others. The resin binds well with fiberglass, but does not perform as well with carbon or Kevlar® fibers. More often, the use of epoxy materials will provide superior protection when those types of materials are in use. For this reason, manufacturers will consider the base materials used in the creation of various goods, and determine if vinylester will provide the degree of protection and strength necessary to make the products attractive to consumers.