Orion14ed
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Jul 2, 2012
- Messages
- 373
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Hey! I've been working on a few rockets, trying to fly solo to prove that I can handle it on my own, but ran into an issue.
I recently purchased some 4:1 fast setting epoxy from US Composites. (Fantastic service BTW) All was going well with the application of it, until I checked my left over epoxy. I squeezed the container I used to mix it, and it easily cracked. I was concerned, but proceeded to my next batch figuring I didn't wait long enough. It then happened again.
The epoxy can be cracked, and then smashed if you take one of the cracked pieces. I am no expert by an means on this stuff, but I am certain the fact that it is cracking is not good.
Here's what I know:
I am using the right ratio. I use syringes to measure out the hardener and resin, there may be a little more of one or the other here or there, but I am certain the ratio is being very closely held.
The temperature is below optimal. I am using the epoxy at about 55 F, once it won't move around, I bring it to a room where its around 65, and if I'm lucky I put it next to my fire place. The epoxy batches that crack do not undergo this temperature change.
I am mixing the epoxy well. I make sure to spend 5 mins at least mixing. I am using small amounts so it would seem to be a reasonable amount of time.
I really have no idea what I am doing wrong. The epoxy after setting can be crushed. I know that is in no way good. I am no expert, but feel this is important. Please help me out, I want to make sure all rockets I'm flying are not going to fall apart.
Thanks guys!!
(Sorry for any typos, I'll go ahead and fix it up tomorrow, but its late.)
I recently purchased some 4:1 fast setting epoxy from US Composites. (Fantastic service BTW) All was going well with the application of it, until I checked my left over epoxy. I squeezed the container I used to mix it, and it easily cracked. I was concerned, but proceeded to my next batch figuring I didn't wait long enough. It then happened again.
The epoxy can be cracked, and then smashed if you take one of the cracked pieces. I am no expert by an means on this stuff, but I am certain the fact that it is cracking is not good.
Here's what I know:
I am using the right ratio. I use syringes to measure out the hardener and resin, there may be a little more of one or the other here or there, but I am certain the ratio is being very closely held.
The temperature is below optimal. I am using the epoxy at about 55 F, once it won't move around, I bring it to a room where its around 65, and if I'm lucky I put it next to my fire place. The epoxy batches that crack do not undergo this temperature change.
I am mixing the epoxy well. I make sure to spend 5 mins at least mixing. I am using small amounts so it would seem to be a reasonable amount of time.
I really have no idea what I am doing wrong. The epoxy after setting can be crushed. I know that is in no way good. I am no expert, but feel this is important. Please help me out, I want to make sure all rockets I'm flying are not going to fall apart.
Thanks guys!!
(Sorry for any typos, I'll go ahead and fix it up tomorrow, but its late.)