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Epoxy Resin: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mar
Epoxy Resin: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Epoxy resin is a versatile and strong material that is used in a variety of applications, from woodworking and jewelry making to arts and crafts. However, if you’re new to working with epoxy resin, it can be easy to make mistakes that can ruin your project or even be dangerous. Here are the most common mistakes people make when working with epoxy resin, and how to avoid them.
- Not measuring the resin and hardener accurately: One of the most common mistakes people make when working with epoxy resin is not measuring the resin and hardener accurately. It’s important to measure the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as the wrong ratio can cause the epoxy to cure poorly or not at all.
- Not mixing thoroughly: It’s essential to mix the resin and hardener together thoroughly in order for the epoxy to cure properly. If you don’t mix the two components together well, you may end up with an uneven finish or weak spots in your final product.
- Not degassing the mixture: If you don’t degas the mixture, it can cause the epoxy to cure with bubbles in it, which can weaken the final product and make it look less appealing. To degas the mixture, use a plastic spoon to stir it vigorously for several minutes, or use a vacuum chamber to remove any trapped air.
- Not using a consistent temperature: Epoxy resin cures best at a consistent temperature. If the temperature is too cold, the resin may not cure properly. If the temperature is too hot, the resin may cure too quickly, which can cause it to become brittle. To ensure a consistent temperature, use a space heater or air conditioner to regulate the temperature of your workspace.
- Not using a quality resin: Using a lower quality resin can result in a weaker final product that is more prone to cracking or breaking. It’s worth investing in a high-quality resin to ensure the best possible results.
- Not following the manufacturer’s instructions: Each brand of epoxy resin may have slightly different instructions, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully in order to get the best results. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly and follow them step by step to ensure a successful project.
By following these tips and avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your epoxy resin projects turn out strong and beautiful.
You do not use the right formula for your application
Epoxy Mistakes Beginners Make. Each resin has its own characteristics. Your choice of resin must be adapted to your specific needs. For instance, polyurethane systems are usually excellent for mold making when high resistance to abrasion or shocks is required, as it is the case in the construction industry. On the other hand, silicone-based products are better indicated for precision molds. Always follow the instruction and select the right system within our wide range of epoxy systems here.
You do not measure correctly the ratio for Part A (Resin) and Part B (Hardener)
Polymerization reaction will not happen correctly if the specific ratio of part A (resin) and part B (hardener) is not strictly measured. If you do not follow the instructions properly, you might experience problems and bad results.
You mix too much quantity of product for your available working time .
Estimate the right quantities to be mixed according to 1 ) the “pot life ” of your product & 2 ) the working time needed. Also, if you need to apply more than one layer of resin on a large surface, be careful not to mix too much product in advance.
You do not bother about your work environment (temperature) and storage conditions of your resin.
A 22 degrees Celsius environment is always indicated for working your resin or storing your resin containers. Also, any variation in temperature will modify the “pot life” and the cure time indicated on the technical data sheet. When stored in lower temperatures, the resin has a higher viscosity, higher pot life , longer cure time. On the opposite, with a temperature above 22 degrees Celsius, viscosity is lower, “pot life” is shortened, resin cures faster.
Part A (resin) and Part B (hardener) are not mix thoroughly
Epoxy Mistakes Beginners Make. Strictly measure and mix part A and B according to the ratio indicated in the technical data sheet. Part A and Part B shall be stirred separately before mixing them together. Make sure the mixture is perfectly homogenous, scraping the bottom and the sides of the containers. In addition, if you do not mix thoroughly, polymerization will not be completed. As a result, the product might remain soft or sticky (however, do not stir to vigorously in order to minimize the formation of air bubbles).
In conclusion, epoxy resin is a powerful and versatile material that can be used in a variety of projects. However, it’s important to be mindful of common mistakes when working with it, such as not measuring the resin and hardener accurately, not mixing thoroughly, not degassing the mixture, not using a consistent temperature, not using a quality resin, and not following the manufacturer’s instructions. By avoiding these mistakes and following best practices, you can ensure that your epoxy resin projects turn out strong and beautiful.
If you have questions concerning the use of our resin, ask our technical experts : support@polymerestechnologies.com