Epoxy resin is a type of resin used in different industrial and commercial processes. You’ll find multiple applications for this resin type because with the proper mix of resin, cross-linking agents, and modifiers, you can tailor it to reach specific performance characteristics. It’s this versatility that makes epoxy resin in woodworking a growing market.
Ensure your safety when using epoxy resins
Most resins come from organic materials and are nontoxic. It could irritate the eyes and skin in its liquid form, but when hardened, it’s safe to use. Still, it is best to be cautious with the substance.
- Make sure your work area is well-ventilated
- Equip yourself with a respirator with the right filter
- Wear gloves and safety glasses
- Wet-sand the resin to minimize resin dust
- Dispose of resin according to manufacturer recommendation
Terms used in epoxy resin work
- Resin – the first part of your formula
- Hardener – the second part of the formula
- Mixing ratio – the right proportion of resin and hardener
- Cure time – the time needed for the combined formula to harden
- Pot life – amount of time before the mixed formula starts to thicken
- High viscosity – liquid in thick state and does not flow much
- Low viscosity – thin liquid that flows easily
Steps on how to use epoxy resin
Take note that when you use epoxy resin, what’s crucial is having the exact ratio for the resin and the hardener. If you mix the two formulas with the wrong ratio, it will not harden as you expect it to.
Step 1 – Mix the epoxy resin. The substance is highly adhesive so be sure to wear gloves to prevent the substance sticking to the skin. Use a wooden stick or a toothpick to mix the two formulas. Stir as if you’re drawing an eight. Prevent air bubbles from forming by stirring. Should you notice air bubbles in your mixture, pop them with a pin.
Step 2 – Add colorant. You have the option to add a colorant provided by the resin manufacturer. Apply the colorant with a toothpick and mix well. It’s best to start with a small amount of colorant, adding little by little until you reach the desired color.
Step 3 – Apply the resin on the item. You need to be careful in this step. Try to avoid having the resin in the openings of the tube components. Also, gently pour the resin to avoid air bubbles. Keep watch until it thickens to ensure the resin stays in your intended shape.
Step 4. Cover and cure the epoxy resin. Put it in a safe place and wait until it cures as recommended in the manufacturer’s manual. Another way to monitor the thickening process is to leave a little amount of resin in a cup. This method allows you to check the thickening process without touching your assembly.
Various features and advantages make epoxy resin in woodworking ideal. It can work as an adhesive, a filler, as lining, and as surface coating for any material.
A disadvantage of epoxy resin is in coming up with the correct ratio of the formula; this can prove to be exasperating for a beginner. And, the compound tends to dry quickly, which makes it important to come up with the correct ratio on the first attempt.
You may see the process as tedious, but the result is worth the effort.
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