EPOXY RESIN

 EPOXY RESINS are generally used where ultimate high strength and adhesion is required.

Most commonly combined with fabrics like Carbon fibre, Kevlar and Glass fibre to give high strength to weight ratio composites.

It can be used to bond or laminate wood and other materials, casting and potting can also be done with epoxies.

Its main advantages over polyester are: very low shrinkage, higher adhesion to many materials, higher chemical resistance, up to 50% stronger, more durable and less brittle.

USAGE AND CURE TIME

Our epoxy is a semi-flexible type ideal for laminating due to its low viscosity.

When using epoxy, the hardener ratio must never be altered as under-cure would arise, the ratio is 50% addition to the resin i.e. 2 parts resin to 1 part hardener (by weight).

A 150g mix has a pot life of around 25 minutes at 25ºC ambient temperature. Thin laminates and coatings may take as long as 5 hours to set, however thicker sections can gel quicker due to the greater mass involved. In all cases the gel and cure times are lengthened considerably in conditions just a few degrees lower and gentle heat may be needed to promote the reaction. Not to be used in temperatures lower than 5ºC. Typical cure schedule is 7 days at 25ºC or 2 hours at 60ºC after gelling. Exposure to direct sunlight accelerates both gel and cure.

Aramid (Kevlar), carbon fibre and glass fibre normally require up to 1½ times their weight in epoxy resin. Use PVA and/or non silicone wax as parting agents. Clean tools with Acetone, cellulose thinner or hot water and detergent. Dry fully before reuse.

These notes are given in good faith for general guidance purposes only and since actually operating conditions, methods, application techniques are beyond our control we cannot accept liability for any losses however they may occur.