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Extending Float TimeHelium gradually escapes through the thin latex wall of the balloon driving the buoyant point down, and you must compensate by removing a ballast plate about every 15 minutes. When the ballast is exhausted, more helium must be added. After your first few flights you might consider using a balloon treatment to extend the float time.A non-toxic water-soluble liquid plastic balloon treatment called Super Hi-Float™ can extend the float time up to a week on a single helium fill. The treatment is easy to apply, just inject 1/2 fl oz of Super Hi-Float™ liquid into the 17" balloon, rub the balloon for a few seconds to spread the liquid over the inside surface and then inflate. Be sure to adjust the balloon connector to make sure the nozzle is centered as shown in Step 4 of the instructions and allow a few hours drying time. For best results, allow the treatment to dry overnight before using. As you might imagine, the liquid treatment adds considerable weight to the balloon, in fact too much weight for high altitude use where you may be tempted to over-inflate. Therefore this treatment is recommened only for altitudes below 2000 ft. If you wish to experiment with partial treatments at higher altitudes, be extra carefull not to over-inflate as instructed in step 8 of the instructions and allow the treatment to dry overnight. As the plastic treatment dries you may notice a slight increase in buoyant lift. When the treatment drys, it hardens and forms a seal inside the balloon and around the balloon connection. Attempts to reposition the balloon on the connector may compromise this seal. Therefore it's important to set the balloon the way you want it before the treatment drys. The treatment should only be applied once to a balloon. Treated balloons may be reused but will not retain helium as well. Super Hi-Float™ is available from Toytronix in convenient pre-measured 1/2 oz bottles, or from your local party supply store in bulk. SUPER HI-FLOAT™ is a nontoxic, water washable plastic material. Although nontoxic, keep out of reach of children. If splashed into the eyes, flush with water for several minutes. SUPER HI-FLOAT™ is a registered trademark of the Hi-Float Company, Inc. |
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