Thread: Epoxy resin issues !!!

Are you using true epoxy resin like west systems or are you using a poly/vinylester resin? Also what temperature are you coating at, if you are using west systems it wets a lot better at warmer temps but the pot life goes down the higher the temp.

I deal with the same issues. Just the nature of the beast. I have taken to doing two coats on most of my scales. I paint the finish on to get full coverage then pour the remainder on the scales and let it spread out. Run your brush around the bottom edge of the sides to knock off the drips, that is what causes the lumpy edges. Once the first coat dries/cures (4 days) I take them off the mounts, sand to smooth them out and clean them up then paint/pour a second thin coat for shine. It takes me about two weeks to make a batch, usually anound a dozen sets. I am assuming you are using bar top finish and not a slow set adhesive epoxy. Epoxy works best in warmer temperatures as well. When you mix epoxy it generates heat as it cures, if you are doing it in a cold environment it can slow the cure or outright ruin it. As long as it is 60 or above you should be fine. If you want to do something interesting, mix a batch of fast set epoxy in a plastic cup. Then watch the cup sag and melt from the thermal reaction given off by the epoxy.

Originally Posted by Zomax

I was having issues with bubbles and he showed me a fast way to end that problem!
Personally, I do not like epoxy ... It is rubbery or soft plastic feeling to me.

I found running a small flame over the scales pops the bubbles, but don't keep it in one spot or it thins the liquid epoxy in the area. As far as the rubbery soft feeling - I've used two different brands of epoxy so far - one brand feels exactly as you described - I can stick my fingernail in it and leave a mark. The other brand is called EnviroTex Lite pour on high gloss finish, and leaves a very hard finish that won't dent with a fingernail. Btw, I did another razor using your technique with CA and its a lot faster than what I had been doing thus far with CA, thank you.

Originally Posted by cannonfodder

I paint the finish on to get full coverage then pour the remainder on the scales and let it spread out. Run your brush around the bottom edge of the sides to knock off the drips, that is what causes the lumpy edges. Once the first coat dries/cures (4 days) I take them off the mounts, sand to smooth them out and clean them up then paint/pour a second thin coat for shine. It takes me about two weeks to make a batch, usually anound a dozen sets. I am assuming you are using bar top finish and not a slow set adhesive epoxy. Epoxy works best in warmer temperatures as well. When you mix epoxy it generates heat as it cures, if you are doing it in a cold environment it can slow the cure or outright ruin it. As long as it is 60 or above you should be fine. If you want to do something interesting, mix a batch of fast set epoxy in a plastic cup. Then watch the cup sag and melt from the thermal reaction given off by the epoxy.

Great advice here, gonna make my life easier

Use system 3 clear coat resin.

Clear Coat - System Three Resins, Inc.