Dispensing Thickeners

[TimmS]

I have an ongoing challenge in my shop with bags of various powders that are needed for epoxy work.For example: I recently bought a 10lb bag of Colloidal Silica. 10lbs does not sound like much, but the bag is huge! The problems are that the bags sit around in the way, are usually open on top so that i can scoop some out when I need it, and they get wood chips and dirt in them, also reaching into a bag gets the powder on arms and clothing, etc. I have been looking for a solution and thought of the cereal dispensers that you see in cafeterias. something like this (http://www.displays2go.com/sub3.asp?ID=693). What do you think? would the material flow? do you have a better solution? It seems like this would allow me to regulate the amount precisely, and keep the stuff out of my way and clean.

[JimConlin]

Timm,
I recently bought a 30 lb. box of microspheres and had the same problem.
My current solution is to have 5-gallon mud buckets for colloidal silica and microspheres on my epoxy bench. They have loose covers to keep junk out and I dipper the fillers a cup or a quart at a time. Any precise measurement, as when making fairing putty, has to be by weight. It isn't a good solution, but I can't think of a better one.
I don't think that colloidal silica or microspheres would flow smoothly through one of those bulk dispensers.

[MiddleAgesMan]

Do you have a cat?

If so, buy the dry food that comes in large plastic "bottles" with large screw on lids. You can get your whole hand in and grab or pinch whatever amount you need, just like you do now.

The best part about those jugs? They're free.

[Concordia...41]

Even if you don't have a cat, all is not lost. Just go buy 4 (or however many) tubs. Dump the cat foot into some bags and drop it off at the local shelter. :D

The good karma earned should protect you from several of the 'ah crap!' boatbuilding moments ;)

- M