Epoxy Kick ?

Islandtrader · #1 02-03-2008, 09:30 AM

This is my first use of bulk epoxy. The ratio is a 3-1.

I used the pumps purchased with the epoxy and made a small batch (3-1) to play around with ( actually 2 batches). The hardener is the medium. According to label has working time of 40-50 minutes and sand time in 2-4 hours.

Yesterday at 2 pm I laid it down. This morning at 730 am it is still tacky????? I am in South West FL. temp. yesterday 75 and overnight about 62.

Any thoughts?

JohnB · #2 02-03-2008, 10:13 AM

Is the epoxy soft? or just tacky? Some of these blush, and have a somewhat thin waxy/tacky finish on top that you have to clean off. It has been my experience, working at 70 degrees or less, that it takes a full 24 hours to cure, unless it's in the sun, and that seems to help kick it.

Islandtrader · #3 02-03-2008, 10:24 AM

It is soft, but getting harder (if that makes any sense). Do you think I should also have some fast harder also?

Just trying to get a feel on how the stuff works, so I don't get a real mess on my hands, before I even get going.

dcobbett · #4 02-03-2008, 12:11 PM

IslandTrader,

Based on my experiences, something is wrong. That stuff should be as hard as a brick, given the time frames you laid out. What brand of epoxy are you using, and are you sure your mix ratios were correct? The pumps are not very accurate and there is a lot of waste associated with them. Next batch, don't use the pumps, just pour into small cups, making sure you get the proper ratio.

reelclassic · #5 02-03-2008, 02:04 PM

I have been having some troble getting the resin to kick...I think it is the weather...It has been a little cool. I noticed when the temp. changes it takes much much longer for it to go! Im in South Fl. too Humidity/cool weather! I have been mixing it the same way the entire time and during the day it has been kicking in 45 mins or so??? Just my guess-I am using polyester btw.

Islandtrader · #6 02-03-2008, 02:45 PM

Quote:

IslandTrader,

Based on my experiences, something is wrong. That stuff should be as hard as a brick, given the time frames you laid out. What brand of epoxy are you using, and are you sure your mix ratios were correct? The pumps are not very accurate and there is a lot of waste associated with them. Next batch, don't use the pumps, just pour into small cups, making sure you get the proper ratio.

I will mix up a new batch today and give it a shot. I will only use the pumps to transfer the stuff and use the measuring cup. I will keep everyone informed.

NoBones · #7 02-03-2008, 03:01 PM

You did not say how you are mixing the two.
I would use a paint paddle in a drill.
Doing it with a stick is not as efficient.
Plus if it is below 70 after you applied, it will
take longer to cure. You can always add a touch more hardener to make the mix a little hotter.
Just a thought Terry....

See ya, Ken

joey · #8 02-03-2008, 05:07 PM

Are you using MAS epoxy? I have been using it on a console that I am building.I use the fast hardener and have about 30 min. pot life.I also mix in balloons when bonding something.Never had a curing issue.I have also been glassing a custom boat and for that I have been using a non-blushing epoxy from Areomarine in S.Cal,it'a a 2-1 mix and is great,and by far the most economically priced.

McGillicuddy · #9 02-14-2008, 03:32 PM

Thanks for the info on AeroMarine products. Turns out they're a couple of miles down the road from me here in San Diego so I'll be saving some on shipping. The owner takes all calls and questions and is incredibly helpful. Price is great, too. Of course I'll have to pay sales tax, but hey, someone has to jump start this economy

Thanks again Joey. -Gillie

thehermit · #10 02-03-2008, 03:12 PM

The 3:1 blushes a lot. Is it a horizontal surface? The tack you feel may be blush but like nobones said when using 3:1 with medium hardner and below 70....give it a another day and see what it does.