New guy here.......some questions about epoxy for infusion

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#1

Hey guys,

Well, I’ve been reading up on all of this, and doing as much research as possible. I still have some questions though.

I’ve currently made some purchases for vacuum infusion including: Robinair pump, 21 gallon compressor, pressure pot, cup gun, HVLP sprayers, mini sprayers (for PVA), tooling gelcoat, resins, brushes, etc.

I have a problem with the fumes though from the polyester resins. They are pretty bad for my living arrangement (garage in an apartment complex). I have been reading that epoxy is a better choice for fumes, but is more expensive. The cost isn’t as much of an issue, but I’ve heard the other advantages such as better strength.

So with that said. I am lookiing for a low viscosity epoxy resin that I can use for my infusion practices. I was looking at West Systems, but that seems to be a bit high on the viscosity side. I found System 3…and that seems to fit. I’ve read one post where people are using that.

So basically…what epoxy is good for infusion. I live in AZ, so the weather is 80-95 degrees right now. I am looking to do small fender pieces to replicate, then modify ground effects (and no…the company that produced these went out of business like 12 years ago, so I can’t get replacements in case anyone wants to mention about copying someone else’s work. But the plan is to replicate them, then modify for a wider tire application. I would rather not do such modifications/experimentation on the original pieces as they are like gold).

Thanks for this site. It’s been very helpful in my research.

Best regards,

Dan

Edit: And no…I will not be spraying epoxy. I purchased the spraying equipment planning on using polyester resins, but now that has changed. I know spraying epoxy can mean certain death :o

#2

Dan, check the products thread on resins - http://compositeforum.werksberg.com/showthread.php?t=651

#3

yes, I did read that, but I have also read that VER has the same odor/fumes as poly resins.

Or am I way off??

Thanks for the response.

Dan

#4

Sorry, my bad. I really meant this one - http://compositeforum.werksberg.com/showthread.php?t=650

You are right in that VER and Poly are both stinky. Epoxy does not have that smell and to me kind of smelly a little like peanut butter, you know the herbal kind, but it will cost you more. When I started out, I went the poly route, but have learned over time that you save money by reducing the redo time and end up with a better piece in the end with epoxy molds.

#5

Thanks. I saw that post too. That’s where I read about the system 3.

I also have read about Jeffco epoxy which is low viscosity and somewhat flexible. They use it on aircraft cowlings and fairings. I might try that one as well. Anyone have any luck with that??

Thanks again for the response.

Dan