I'm finally putting some knives together and am using a two part amine cured epoxy with the pins. I was wondering if anyone does anything besides a room temperature cure on them. My instinct from work is to cure them at about 50 C and then post cure them over night at 100 C to make sure the resin is as cured as possible. Is this overkill?
Kevin,
All epoxies definately need to be warm while curing and the curing time for each is going to vary considerably. I use only Acraglas and can't speak first hand for all others but my first reaction would be that heating them to 100C isn't going to add anything to the bonding strength could possibly weaken the process (and possible alter the handle material). I can't tell you exactly at what temperature it releases but I have used heat to undo a glue joint for years and would guess that 100C is approaching that temp. Even though you can work it after 4-6 hours, the Acraglas that I use will continue to gain strength for at least 24 hours at room temperature so it is desirable to allow that slow cure.
I think that you would probably be better off to allow your glue joint to cure slowly at room temperature rather than heating it to higher temperatures and taking a chance of reducing the bonding strength but would welcome other views. <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//wink.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=';)' /> Time rather than temperature.
Gary
I use Fiber Glass Coatings 1050/2050 System marine epoxy. 20-25 minute work time, strong after 4 hours, completely cured in 24 hours. I use it at room temp, it generates the heat needed to cure on its own. Dries clear and has a good bond. I have also used their color additives with success.
I too would suggest room temp, unless it is a rainy day.
