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View Full Version : Epoxy vs frosty nights..


brian.cunningham
10-07-2002, 10:59 PM
Still warm during the day, but we're getting frost here at night now :(

I need to get the floats built and sheathed before winter.

any suggestions on working with it and getting it to cure overnight? Or do I just wait two night?
Frank Wentzel
10-07-2002, 11:16 PM
I use a bank of four 250 watt heat lamps to speed epoxy cure when it gets cold. The best way is to preheat the part by having the lamps close to the part, apply the epoxy and then move the lamps back so, though the part still stays warm, the temperature drops and draws the epoxy into the part.

/// Frank ///
RGM
10-07-2002, 11:40 PM
Electric blanket(s)
NormMessinger
10-08-2002, 07:29 AM
System Three fast hardener or the equivalent.

--Norm
Charlie J
10-08-2002, 08:25 AM
It also helps quite a bit to keep the epoxy warm. The Gougeon's in their book on boat construction recommend keeping it in a box with a light bulb burning so it doesn't get cold. Then prewarm the wood so you aren't hitting cold material.

If you are using MAS slow and the temps are running in the 70's during the day, you may just have to take two days as it does cure slowly in cooler weather. Noticably slower than WEST's slow. This CAN be an advantage when glassing since the epoxy stays a bit softer and you have more time to scrap off drips or sags before recoating.
Dale H
10-08-2002, 08:51 AM
I have a little ceramic heater rated at 1500 watts that I carefully place in the hull (19 foot Eun Mara) and throw a tarp over the top. Inside temperature is kept at a nice 20-25 degrees C. with an outside air temperature of 0. If it gets colder cover with a layer of bubble wrap as well.

Dale
brian.cunningham
10-08-2002, 12:36 PM
EDIT ( 1st line didn't copy )

The boat it outside

This makes the lightbulb idea a little harder.

Though the "greenhouse effect" is much better. smile.gif

[ 10-08-2002, 10:20 PM: Message edited by: brian.cunningham ]
brian.cunningham
10-09-2002, 09:55 PM
I purchased a new tarp today ( blue UV proof )
I'm going to make at least a tent ( two poles and a tight line ) if not a leantoo (sp?)

There's a clothes dryer outlet right next to the boat. normally the moist hot air is a bad thing, but if I run it w/o clothes in it they may help out alot.