5.2. PROPERTIES OF POLYESTER

The body and other parts are produced in the Czech Republic at a factory specialized in the production of fibreglass parts. The price/quality ratio for the Burton fibreglass is very high. The Burton is not spray painted, but is delivered in a gel coat. The gel coat layer, which defines the car’s colour, is far thicker than any spray-painted coating as can be found on normal cars. Because the Burton is not spray-painted, the moulds that are used have to be in perfect condition. Any damage to the mould will be visible on every new product, therefore it is extremely important to maintain these moulds appropriately. (A full set of moulds costs about 60,000 euros). The good quality of the fibreglass parts depends on a series of factors like; durability of the material, workmanship, the correct temperature in the workshop and the time the fibreglass is allowed to harden in the mould.

Here are some of the advantages of a gel coat versus spray painted steel:

- It is lighter and stronger
- It cannot corrode
- A little scratch can easily be repaired by light sanding and a fresh polish.
- It is easier to work on and this can be done with basic equipment.
- It is more flexible
- It requires less maintenance.

There are some disadvantages as well:

- It does not dent, instead it will crack and splinter.
- It is likely to have a larger thickness
- It will never be as smooth as a metal surface.

The Burton is a hand made product. The complete design has been made without the aid of computers, so allow for minimal differences in symmetry.