A Simple Guide to Epoxy Resin Applications for Ugandan Crafts People
Epoxy resin applications are gaining popularity in Uganda as an alternative to traditionally popular solutions. From floors, table tops, jewelry, pots and planters to simple gravel bonding, this new product is increase being used by innovative craftspeople and jewelers to create new products.
As the most prominent supplier of epoxy resin systems in the country, we have published this guide to assist users with practical information on hour to use epoxy resin products. Epoxy resin is a durable product which can be used with various materials, including: wood, fabric, glass, china or metal – we’ll explain the uses of this versatile product later.
Jewlery Resin
Applications of Epoxy Resin
This article applies to clear rigid epoxy resin systems, which are specially formulated for decorative applications including casting, lamination and bonding. It is totally clear and UV stabilized giving excellent optical properties with negligible to no shrinkage on curing.
Preparation of Epoxy Resin
It can be used for casting decorative parts featuring a long working time, ease of use and low exotherm. Ensure ambient material and workshop temperature is between 18 to 25ºC and humidity level below 70%.
Mixing is critical and must be accurate. 2 parts resin for 1 part of hardener will provide a hard casting once cured. Pour the hardener first then the resin.
The combined liquids must be thoroughly mixed manually or mechanically to completely remove any haziness or streaks, scraping the sides and base of the mixing pot then transferring the mix to a second container and stirring is best practice for good castings.
An entirely homogeneous mix is essential in achieving optimal results. It is important to only mix the correct quantity at a time as epoxy systems tend to exotherm when kept in a mass.
(Mixing by weight: 100g resin to 42g hardener pro rata)
Video Showing Epoxy Resin Use for Jewelry
Application to Mould
It can then be poured into a mould. The mould can be a hard mould or made of silicone rubber. Moulding can be carried out by gravity or under vacuum.
It does not trap air easily and does not heat up when used properly. Temperature should be between 18 to 25ºC. Humidity level below 70%. Pot life is as follows for a 500g mix at 22ºC 2+1 mix=10 hours.
The hard mix (2+1) will provide a hard casting, suitable for manufacture of fancy shapes, decorative items etc. Should a new mix be applied onto cured resin, the contact surface should always be sanded in order to enhance adhesion.
Curing Process
Parts can be released after the following time at 22ºC. 2+1 mix =19 hours
A 3D Epoxy Floor
Health and Safety Information
This product is a modern formulation of the safest epoxy chemicals available. It is however advised to follow basic rules such as avoiding skin contact, wear masks when producing dust.
Please read our standard health and safety sheet for more information. In case of eye contamination, wash with water and seek medical advice.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
Properties given for a temperature of 22ºC.
Resin: Clear liquid, viscosity of 1,000 mPas.
Hardener: Clear liquid, viscosity of 150 mPas.
Mixture: Clear liquid, viscosity of 300 to 450 mPas.
Mixing density: 1.1.
Hardness: 95 Shore D (2+1 mix).
Elongation at break: 8% for the 2+1 mix.
Tensile strength: 66 MPa (2+1mix).
Flexural strength: 105 MPa (2+1 mix)
The optimal mechanical properties will be reached after 21 days at 20ºC or 15H at 60ºC.
Troubleshooting Problems with Epoxy Resin
Problems Cause
Cloudy or solid state in container: Storage below 10ºC.
Uncured after 24-48 hours: Wrong mix ratio and/or temperature low.
The mixture gets hot: High temperature and/or too much mixture was prepared.
Air bubbles are entrapped: Mixing was too fast and did not have time to release air.
Sticky, greasy surface: Humidity level is too high.
Packing and Storage of Epoxy Resin
Shelf life is one year in sealed containers as provided. Keep containers sealed and away from heat and cold.
Uses of Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin is known for its strong adhesive qualities, making it a versatile product in many industries. It offers resistance to heat and chemical applications, making it an ideal product for anyone needing a strong hold under pressure. Epoxy resin is also a durable product which can be used with various materials, including: wood, fabric, glass, china or metal.
Video: 3D River Table Made from Epoxy Resin
Using Epoxy Resin as Adhesives
One of the most common uses of epoxy resin is for adhesive purposes. That’s because the strong-properties of the epoxy allow for structural and engineering adhesives. Commonly, epoxy resin is used in the construction of vehicles, snowboards, aircrafts and bicycles. But epoxy adhesives aren’t limited to only structural applications. In fact, they can be used in virtually any application. Generally speaking, epoxy is used due to its diverse options in setting. It can become flexible or rigid, varying in the opaque and transparent options.
Using Epoxy Resin for Electronics and Electrical Systems
Placing an important part in the electronics industry, epoxy resin is used in the production of insulators, motors, transformers and generators. As epoxy resins are fantastic insulators and offers protection from dust, moisture and short circuits it remains one of the primary resins used in circuit creation too.
Using Epoxy Resin for Painting
Known as powder coatings, epoxy paint is found on many household goods like dryers, washers, stoves and similar white goods. Typically, this type of paint is used in more commercial settings. With a water clean-up and tough, protective coating, epoxy paint is an excellent option for appliances. Likewise, cast iron, cast aluminium and cast steel are also other metals which work well with this painting application.
Using Epoxy Resin for Coatings and Sealant
Epoxy is also known for its corrosion prevention properties, making it an ideal solution to many household objects which may normally rust with time. Items including paint cans, metal containers, and foods which are typically acidic are normally coated before use.
Another use for epoxy resin is the decorative flooring applications. Chip flooring, terrazzo flooring and other aggregate flooring options are coated with an epoxy resin. Epoxy flooring is an environmentally friendly option to traditional flooring options as it reduces the need for pesticides and water consumption.
Using Epoxy Resin for Repairs
Because of the strong adhesive properties, many consumers use epoxy resin for the repair and maintenance of their household objects. Fragile items like glass, ceramic and china can be fixed quickly with an epoxy resin, helping secure broken or snapped items to the original piece. Likewise, epoxy resin can also be used on many other materials in a similar fashion. Wood, metal, latex or other similar synthetic materials can also be repaired as well. By using the epoxy resin over an otherwise fragile piece, you’ll create a thin, tightly formed barrier which attaches securely and holds in place over the years.
Video: 3D Epoxy Floor and walls Bathroom – How to make an 3D Floor, Step by Step Guide – Bathroom Design
Need to buy epoxy resin for your next project? Contact us today or visit our store in Kampala Industrial Area.
For epoxy floorworks visit our our special website for these solutions.