Need recommendations for resins, >overwhelmed<

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#1

I am looking at getting my hands on some resins, but I’m overwhelmed with the options. I don’t know what to look for and which brands to trust. I don’t know the differences between the pros and cons of the different types of resins, (epoxy, vinyl, etc)

Either way I am looking for something that will be suitable for an appreciable level of structral stability. Ideal for infusion. Will be exposed to sunlight and is clear.

If someone could please explain the differences between the different resins and what would be ideal for my use it would be greatly appreciated.

#2

Before looking at different material options, it would be a very good idea to master whatever production method you intend doing, by using the least expensive materials. Also an extremely good idea to be able to hand laminate reasonably well before going on to anything more advanced.

#3

it all depends on what is in your laminate and what the part will be made for. I really don’t think you need to master hand lamination before you go into infusion because they really are complete opposites in manufacturing. I have been infusing for 3 years now and still can not hand laminate a carbon piece.

#4

If he plans on building molds, he will have to at least learn basic hand laminating.

#5

I plan on working with glass first. Making a few simple molds, nonetheless, I still need help with the resin selection.

#6

right right, I was thinking of carbon lamination not hand laminating molds.

#7

Gel coat (Tooling the best for high # os parts) for the skin coating and lamination for the reinforcements (fiberglass).

#8

what resin systems are you guys using, and what do you do to prevent UV damage? How has it held up in sunlight?