West System Epoxy

Reference to epoxy or resin/hardener mix, is defined as mixed resin and hardener without fillers added; reference to thickened mix will mean resin/hardener with either high-density or low-density fillers added.

Each filler possesses a unique set of physical characteristics, but the fillers can be generally categorised as either high-density (403, 404, 405 or 406) or low-density (407 or 410).

Table 1 is a guide for selecting a filler based on the physical properties required for a particular job. Each filler is rated between 1 and 5 in each of five physical categories.

Table 2 shows the most appropriate fillers for specific jobs.

MIXING

The viscosity of a required mix for a particular job is controlled by the amount of filler added (Figure 3) Always add fillers in a two-step process:

1. Mix the desired quantity of resin and hardener thoroughly before adding fillers. Begin with a small batch.

2. Stir in small quantities of the appropriate filler until the desired consistency is reached. Be sure all the filler is thoroughly blended before the compound is applied

ADDITIVES

Although additives are blended with the mixed epoxy in the same two-step process as fillers, they are not designed to thicken the epoxy. Additives are used in smaller quantities to give the epoxy additional physical properties when used as a coating and pigments to provide a colour base for future overcoating with good quality marine paint.