Hi Netters.
For those that measure their epoxy by volume, I suggest instead of pumps use
syringes. Go to the local drug store and buy a 50 ml syringe. They are cheep.
Even though you may be using 1 volume to 1 volume of epoxy to hardener get
different sized syringes. The reason is that sooner or later you will stick the
epoxy syringe into the hardener by mistake. If the epoxy is a thick type, cut
off the needle fitting and run a 3/16" drill into the end of the syringe. This
will make it easy to draw up the thick epoxy. Next use a fine tipped black
permanent marker to go over the volume markings on the side scale of the
syringe. Otherwise the epoxy will gradually dissolve off the marking. Add a
stripe of colored tape down one side and on the end of the piston. Cover the
entire cylinder with clear cello tape. This will preserve the volume marking
indefinitely. Stand the syringe in a can or jar after each use. Do the same
with the hardener sysringe but use a different colored tape on it. I use
plastic jars for the epoxy and hardener. Peanut butter jars (plastic) work
well. Color code them too.
It does not take long to estimate the volume of epoxy that you require for a
particular job. Don't mix more than you require. Get a couple of small
syringes too for small jobs. Get a pair of 5 ml, 10 ml and 20 ml syringes.
This way you will always have the exact mixing ratios in your glue. With a
syringe you can see that you have the required volume. You are not relying on a
pump which might have sucked a bit of air around the piston or might not have
been pushed all the way to the top or bottom of it's travel. And don't forget
the gloves. Keep that epoxy off your skin. I think that the blue "Tyvec" gloves
are the best. They are tougher than latex or vinyl gloves. Clean the gloves off
with "varsol", hang them up to dry. Next time use "Baby Powder" on your hands
before putting them on again. They will last a long time this way. Sorry if I
got a bit wordy.
Harold Woods
Orillia, ON Canada
[email protected]
