West System 105 epoxy, 205 hardener,
Hello Steve
I have used west system for sever years and find that in weather where the
temp is around 70deg, that the lay-up is usually stiff enough to trim with a
razor in about 8 hours and hard enough to sand in 24. In cooler temps, or
higher humidity, the time can be as long as 36 to 48 hours. If at all
possible I leave my lay-ups in the sun. To aid the sun on cooler days I
have been known to add a black plastic bag as a booster (only do this if the
lay-up is protected with waxed paper or the plastic will stick to the
resin). It is also possible to use a heat lamp or heater to keep the lay-up
warm during the initial part of the curing process. Two things that I find
that slow down the curing process is not having the two parts mixed
completely, and not having the correct proportions. Sometimes it is
necessary to prime the pump with a little push to ensure that it starts to
dispense the epoxy or hardener as the pump stroke begins. Also, continue the
pump stroke until the pump reaches its bottom.
Orma
Southfield, MI
N110LR celebrating 20 years
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