epooxy freezeout

[Paulyboy]

I just realized that although I brought all my glues and finishes inside, I left my epoxy supplies in a few days of 0 degree weather. Is it ruined? :eek: :eek: :eek: :mad:

[NormMessinger]

No, I don't think so. If it has not turned cloudy it will be fine. If it has turned cloudy or has precipitated crystals set the jug in very hot water until it clears and bobs yer uncle. Been there had it happen to me.

[John Bell]

It's fine.

Epoxy resin will crystallize if stored cold. All you need to do is warm it up by placing the container in a bucket of hottish 120F water for a couple of hours and it will all go back to a liquid state.

There's some crystallized googe in my garage right now that will need the same treatment before I can use it. No worries.

[Paulyboy]

Thanks Norm. Thanks John. THanks epoxy Gods. BTW, how'd ya know BOb's my uncle? Are you the shadow following me?

[Bob Smalser]

Do warm the resin up to remove the cloudiness or the over-cold, thick condition will shorten the life of your pump significantly.

[Sailman58]

You may also want to replace the pumps since they are a pain to clean. My only epoxy failure was because of a pump that I thought I had cleaned. I now keep a new set of pumps at the house and replace one at the first sign of trouble.

[NormMessinger]

Always, often at least, pump in to a graduated mixing pot so you can see if the quantities are significantly off.

[Dale H]

I've left epoxy out in an unheated shed at -40 with no ill effects. In fact some pros store mixed batches in the freezer overnight so they can use it the next day.

As far as crystal formation goes, my gut feeling is that metal containers are more prone to forming crystals. I've not had this problem with plastic jugs.

I actually worry more about the cured epoxy in the boat when it gets really cold!

Dale