Tips on How to Mix Epoxy Resin
Mixing epoxy coatings is a simple, straight forward job but if not done correctly, the resulting sticky mess or failed application will be an upsetting, expensive and labour intensive job to rectify.
Tip #1 Check the mix ratio
Every epoxy product we manufacture has it’s own unique mix ratio. This may also vary from batch to batch as products are continuously enhanced over time.
Tip #2 Check the temperature
Every workspace is different so you will need to consider the air temperature as well as the material temperatures to get a consistent results. Epoxy is a temperature sensitive material. When cool, it’s thicker and sets slower. When warm, it’s thinner and sets faster. Each data sheet will include the optimum temperature for the resin you are using.
Tip #3 Mix thoroughly
The thorough mixing of the resin and hardener is essential to obtain an attractive, useful result later on. If you do not work carefully enough, there is a risk that incompletely cured, sticky spots may appear in the resin or that the hardener levels within the area may vary.
Tip #4 Use compatible resins
Every product we manufacturer has it’s very own hardener which we provide as part of the ‘two-pack’. We will always recommend that you use this hardener, do not mix hardeners between products and/or brands.
Tip #5 Correct size tub
Chemical reactions generate heat when mixing epoxy resin. This is due to a so-called exothermic reaction. The extent of this reaction depends on the resin, the quantity mixed, and not least the height of the mixing container. Therefore, here are a few things to consider.
• There is a limit for the mixed amount of resin and hardener. This should not be exceeded, if in doubt mix a smaller amount of resin twice instead of one.
• Heat generation during mixing is significantly reduced if you select a sufficiently large mixing container for this process. This should be wider, rather than higher.
Tip #6 Correct mixing tool
It’s essential that you use the right size and type of mixing tool. For larger volumes, paddle mixers make short work mixing epoxy resin.
Tip #7 Do not add water
As long as the resin is still liquid it should not come into contact with moisture. This could have a negative effect on the quality of the finished product, even in small quantities.
