info@gliderservice-novak.si
+386 (0)4 53 53 400
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Surface refinish

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info@gliderservice-novak.si
+386 (0)4 53 53 400

Licences

Maintenance organization approved according to EASA Part M,
Subpart F
Approval designation: SI.MF.002

Continuing airworthiness management organization (CAMO+) approved according to EASA Part M,
Subpart G
Approval designation: SI.MG.026

Refinish

We specialize in the refinish of aircrafts made of composites: gliders, motorgliders, other composite-built aircraft.

An impeccable surface protects the aircraft’s structure from external impacts, thus helping to extend its service life.

Due to the weather conditions, ageing and material characteristics the paint starts to crack. Therefore the surface is not properly protected anymore and needs to be refinished in order to prevent structural damage.

Refinish procedure:

  • Weighing the aircraft components before the refinish work
  • Disassembly and cleaning the components; protection against water and dust
  • Sanding off the old coating, a review of the condition of the surface (photos), surface inspection (inspector)
  • Structural repairs as needed
  • Preparations for painting and spray painting
  • Wet sanding with fine sandpaper, polishing, cleaning
  • Printing and painting any additional markings
  • Lubrication, assembly and sealing of the gaps in front of the control surfaces
  • Weighing, precise final inspection and measurements of the assembled aircraft
  • Issuing of documentation about the completed work, evaluation flight

All the processes are documented photographically.

We use polyurethane (PU) paint:

  • PU coatings are elastic therefore they reduce the possibility of cracking due to mechanical and temperature loads.
  • They prevent moisture and dirt from entering the structure.
  • They are highly resistant against chemicals.
  • They are highly resistant against ultraviolet radiation (therefore they do not turn matte, there is less yellowing, no larger colour discrepancies in the case of subsequent repairs).
  • They require less maintenance.
  • Repairs are simple.

We provide a 2 year warranty on refinish of the surface with PU coatings.

In the past, the T35 polyester paint was the most widely used material for structural protection of new composite aircraft.

When polyester paint is exposed to UV radiation and environmental conditions, it changes its structure, becoming more fragile and forming cracks on the surface. The onset of these signs is even quicker when the surface is wet and exposed to temperature fluctuations.

According to our customers’ request, the aircraft surface can also be restored with T35 polyester paint. In this case, the warranty period is 1 year.

Design Creation and Implementation

  • According to our customers’ request, we can create and implement any design you wish.
  • Unique designs are developed in collaboration with renowned designers.
  • We only apply the best of materials (painting, screen printing, adhesive decals).

Printing of Registration and Other Markings

After the refinish, registration and competition as well as other markings, the aircraft type, and the flag of the registration country in accordance with the regulations and the wishes of the customer are applied.
Various methods are possible:

  • Application with PU coatings
  • Screen printing
  • Adhesive decals

Sealing of Gaps in front of the Control Surfaces

By sealing the gap in front of the control surface we achieve a smaller drag and better handling of the aircraft. Basically, it prevents the airflow from one side of the surface to the other. It protects the hinges of the flight control surfaces from dirt (dust) and water.
Basic sealing with a textile tape or Mylar and Teflon tapes is possible. Sealing type is usually prescribed by the manufacturer of the aircraft.

Weighing, Final Inspection and Evaluation Flight

After the refinish, we perform the weighing, final inspections, and if necessary also the evaluation flight.
We issue the Certificate of Release to Service (CRS) and other documentation in accordance with the EASA provisions.
GLIDERSERVICE Novak d.o.o. is a maintenance organization approved according to the EASA Part M, Subpart F (SI.MF.002).

Gallery