What do I need to bear in mind when working with epoxy resin?
In the following lines, we would like to give you a few tips on processing and handling epoxy resins.
Our high-quality epoxy resin is a versatile synthetic resin for casting, designing, sealing, laminating, and repairing in the best quality. The liquid material hardens when the hardener is added, creating a clear shape or surface. Our range includes epoxy resins for the manufacture of coatings, molded parts, vehicle parts, model making, pond and pool construction, and other components.
Preparation of the surface
The substrate must be dry, clean, and free of grease! We therefore recommend sanding the surface (40 to 180 grit) and degreasing it with acetone. After sanding, the surface should be cleaned of sanding dust with a vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Always allow parts cleaned with acetone to air dry for 2-3 hours. If the surface to be treated is contaminated with silicone, it should be cleaned with a silicone remover.
Processing epoxy resin
When working with epoxy resins, the processing temperature should be between 20-30°C, not below 10°C. The relative humidity should not exceed 70%. The hardener must be added in the exact quantity specified; please refer to the relevant data sheet (high temperatures – faster curing; low temperatures can slow down curing considerably). Before use, all components should be thoroughly stirred/homogenized to ensure proper curing. When working with epoxy resin, you should measure the resin hardener precisely using scales; the mixing ratio must be adhered to exactly! For larger quantities (2 kg or more), a stirrer, drill, and mixing propeller should be used for mixing; the bottom and edges should be scraped and stirred in thoroughly. To prevent the mixture from hardening too quickly, the mixed resin hardener should be poured into a flat container, such as a paint tray. The large surface area and flat storage prevent the mixture from heating up too quickly. For optimal bonding of the individual layers, work wet-on-wet.
Mixing ratios for epoxy resin
There are different mixing ratios for epoxy resin, depending on which system you use. These ratios have a decisive influence on the properties and, for example, the processing time. The two-component systems are precisely matched to each other. It is essential to adhere strictly to the mixing ratio, which can only be achieved by weighing the components accurately using digital scales.
Notes
We recommend that you carry out tests in advance to ensure suitability for your project!
If you want to lay several layers of fabric, sanding between the individual layers is not necessary as long as the previous epoxy resin layer has not yet hardened! This means you work “wet on wet” and the surface should still be slightly sticky.
Storage of epoxy resin
Seal opened containers tightly with the original lid. Store in a cool, dry place. Can be stored for at least 1 year under optimal conditions. As the hardener reacts with air humidity and carbon dioxide in the air, opened containers should not be left open. Seal them as quickly as possible!
Cleaning work equipment
Cured epoxy resins can only be cleaned mechanically, for example by sanding! Acetone can be used to remove uncured resin residues from tools, which must then be allowed to air sufficiently to prevent the cleaner from entering new containers!
Occupational safety when working with epoxy resins
Occupational safety is important; gloves and safety goggles should always be worn, and we also recommend wearing a protective suit. Processing should only take place in well-ventilated rooms. When processing epoxy resins, the information in the safety data sheets must be observed!
If you have any questions about our products or our service in general, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are available by phone, email, or via our convenient contact form.
Hotline: 035341-47098
Email: info@phd-24.de
The information contained in this manual is based on careful research. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not release the user from the responsibility of conducting their own tests for the intended purposes and checking for any infringement of third-party property rights. The information is non-binding and does not constitute a guarantee of properties within the meaning of any laws. No liability is accepted for the accuracy and completeness of the information.
