Re: [RCSE] hotbox for bagging, post or concurrent

[Jason Werner]

Martin,     True heat treating should be done after the epoxy has completed its initial cure.  Most epoxy producers have this in their documentation.  Most RC manufacturers (and others as well) use heat to help cure their product faster.  That actually can creat a less strong bond in some cases, and can promote shrinking, improper curing, and less bond strength in a mechanical bond.  But it can also work fine.       For example ProSet has a 2 stage cure process. It outlines a 8 hr "standard" cure at a specific temp (80 degrees say) and then an additional time at an elevated temp  (say 16hrs at 135) to get a specific strength.    Anyway, unless you are using specific epoxy designed for heat curing (West Systems 105 is not BTW, though ProSet is) then using a heat cure step is not necessary.  Your current method of elevated temp curing is fine...jsut keep the temp in a reasonable level for correct curing (80-90 deg is all you need).   Jason Werner ----- Original Message ----- From: Martin Cleary To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, March 06, 2002 1:07 PM Subject: [RCSE] hotbox for bagging, post or concurrent I read Fred S's post re 3m77-interesting.  Regarding the hotbox.  I have heard that the heat treatment should be done after the epoxy has cured from one source and another said do the treatment while the epoxy is setting up.  Just looking for input.  My current method is to just throw an electric blanket over the bag and let it cook for a day or so.  If I can find some dead shop space, I may build a box.