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MAX 1618 A/B

High Performance Clear Composite Resin

Carbon Fiber, Fiberglass, Kevlar Impregnating Resin 

(48 FLUID OUNCE COMBINED VOLUME)

1 QUART MAX 1618 PART A (US GALLON 128 FL.OZ)

AND

1 PINT MAX 1618 PART B (½ US GALLON 64 FL.OZ)

In our efforts to maintain our low cost price offerings, the items may be packaged in different chemical safe containers approved for storage and DOT shipping regulations.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

MAX 1618 A/B is our lowest viscosity resin formulation which makes it suitable for adding fillers and powders. It is also suitable for many bonding and impregnating applications where its low viscosity yields excellent wetting and resin saturation.

MAX 1618 COMPOSITES FABRICATION APPLICATIONS

10" x 10" panel = 3K 2x2 Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Panel 17 Plies
38% RESIN CONTENT
Impregnated with MAX 1618 A/B Vacuum Bag Laminated

TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS,
PLACE THE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS

Tail Fin = 3K 2x2 Twill Carbon Fiber Impregnated with MAX 1618 A/B Vacuum Infused.

Works well with other fabrics such as Kevlar

NOTE THE VERY TIGHT WEAVE, YIELDS VERY SMOOTH  AND FINE LAMINATE



EXCELLENT FOR KAYAK AND CANOE CONSTRUCTION
ULTRA LIGHT WEIGHT SURFBOARDS
RC MODEL AIRPLANE
HIGH PERFORMANCE AUTOMOTIVE PANEL
 

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

Please visit our YouTube Channel to view our video demonstrations

PolymerProductsPCI on YouTube


LINKS TO MAX 1618 A/B RESIN SYSTEM USED IN THE COMPOSITE PARTS ABOVE

MAX 1618 48 OUNCE KIT

MAX 1618 96 OUNCE KIT

MAX 1618 1.5 GALLON KIT

TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS, PLACE THE CURSOR

ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS

MAX 1618 A/B VACUUM ASSISTED RESIN TRANSFER MOLDING PROCESS.

PLACE THE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS

Please visit our YouTube Channel to view our video demonstrations

PolymerProductsPCI on YouTube


FOR REFERENCE ONLY

COMPOSITES FABRICATION APPLICATIONS

10" x 10" panel = 12K 2x2 Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Panel 12 Plies 

Impregnated with MAX 1618 A/B Vacuum Bag Laminated



TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS,
PLACE THE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS

Tail Fin = 3K 2x2 Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Impregnated with

MAX 1618 A/B Vacuum Infused

ADOBE FLASH PAYER MUST BE INSTALLED IN YOUR BROWSER

http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/


TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS, PLACE THE CURSOR
ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS

TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS,

PLACE THE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS

Tail Fin = 3K 2x2 Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Impregnated with

MAX 1618 A/B Vacuum Infused

ADOBE FLASH PAYER MUST BE INSTALLED IN YOUR BROWSER

http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/


TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS, PLACE THE CURSOR
ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS



PLACE MOUSE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE PAUSE OR PLAY CONTROLS OF SLIDE SHOW

Note the absolute clarity of the MAX 1618 A/B specimen exhibiting excellent crystal clear transparency 

 AVAILABLE MAX 1618 A/B KIT SIZES

MAX 1618 48 OUNCE KIT

MAX 1618 96 OUNCE KIT

MAX 1618 1.5 GALLON KIT

MAX 1618 A/B is formulated without the use of any silicone based surfactants that causes turbidity even in very thick castings.

MAX 1618 A/B COLOR STABILITY COMPARISON
Clear epoxy systems formulated using plasticizers and accelerators such as the specimen
The left specimen demonstrates poor color stability even if it is unexposed to direct sunlight or elevated temperature. Note the MAX 1618 A/B specimen that was formed at the same time and kept in a temperature controlled (25.0°C +/- 0.5 °C) chamber that filters out any UV radiation from ambient light source.

MAX 1618 A/B DIRECT SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE STUDY

Note the low yellowing performance of MAX 1618 A/B compared to a common brand epoxy resin after equal direct sunlight exposure of 2 months.
 

Competitive brand clear resin system formulated with nonyl phenol plasticizers after sunlight exposure

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND CURED PROPERTIES

Density

1.10 g/cc +/- 0.03 grams per cubic centimeter Part A

0.98 +/- .05 grams per cubic centimeter Part B

1.09.+/-.03 grams per cubic centimeter Mixed

Pounds per Gallon Mixed

9.07 +/- .02 Pounds Per Gallon

Form and Color

PART A = Clear Liquid Gardner Color Scale <1 (Similar to Glycerin or Pure water)

PART B = Clear Liquid Gardner Color Scale <1 (Similar to Glycerin or Pure water)

MIXED = Clear Gardner Color Scale 1 (Cured specimen 50 grams Mass)

Viscosity

PART A = 980 to 1040 cPs @ 25ºC

PART B = 300 to 310 cPs @ 25ºC

MIXED = 377 cPs @ 25ºC

Mix Ratio

100 Parts “B”to 50 Parts “A” By Weight Or 2:1 By Volume

Working Time

30 Minutes @ 25ºC (300 gram mass)

Peak Exotherm Temperature

174ºC (300 gram concentrated mass) after 50 minutes

Handle Time

6 – 8 Hours Set to Touch, 10 Hours Green Strength

Maximum Operating Temperature

95ºC

Cured Shore Durometer Hardness

87 to 93 Shore D Scale

Glass Transition

105ºC

Full Cure Time

Accelerated Cure Schedule

36 Hrs. Minimum @ 25ºC

4 hours at 25ºC or until dry to the touch plus 60 Minutes @ 110ºC

Heat Resistance Study By Shore Durometer Hardness Test

The heat resistance of MAX 1618 A/B was test by heating a 2 inch cube in 5 degree increments and the Shore hardness was determined using both the Shore A and D scale. This test demonstrate the heat resistance of the MAX 1618 A/B by determining at what temperature the Shore Hardness reading dramatically change. At 140 °F a considerable change in Shore D Hardness Scale occurred due to the sharp needle-like indenter of the equipment began puncturing the surface of the specimen which may make the Scale D Hardness an unreliable test data.

The Shore A scale demonstrated a dramatic change in hardness at 240°F which demonstrates it maximum heat tolerance.


Shore Hardness is a measure of the resistance of a material to penetration of a spring loaded needle-like indenter.
Dr. Dmitri Kopeliovich 
Hardness of Polymers (rubbers, plastics) is usually measured by Shore scales.
Shore A scale is used for testing soft Elastomers (rubbers) and other soft polymers.
Hardness of hard elastomers and most other polymer materials 
(ThermoplasticsThermosets) is measured by scale.Shore Hardness is tested with an instrument called Durometers. A Durometer utilizes an indenter loaded by a calibrated spring. The measured hardness is determined by the penetration depth of the indenter under the load.

Two different indenter shapes and two different spring loads are used for two Shore scales (A and D).

The loading forces of Shore A: 1.812 lb (822 g), Shore D: 10 lb (4536 g). 

Shore hardness value may vary in the range from 0 to 100. Maximum penetration for each scale is 0.097-0.1 inch.

This value corresponds to minimum Shore hardness: 0. Maximum hardness value 100 corresponds to zero penetration.

Rubber Shore Hardness and typical applications

Hardness

Application

30 Shore A

Art gum erasers

35 Shore A

Rubber bands

40 Shore A

Can tester pads

50 Shore A

Rubber stamps

55 Shore A

Pencil erasers

60 Shore A

Screen wiper blades

65 Shore A

Automotive tires

70 Shore A

Shoe heels

75 Shore A

Abrasive handling pads

80 Shore A

Shoe soles

85 Shore A

Tap washers

90 Shore A

Typewriter rollers

95 Shore A

Fork lift solid tires

60 Shore D

Golf ball

70 Shore D

Metal forming wiper dies

80 Shore D

Paper-making rolls

RESIN CRYSTALLIZATION FROM COLD TEMPERATURE EXPOSURE

DURING THE COLDER SEASONS THE RESIN AND CURING AGENT SHOULD BE WARMED TO AT LEAST 75°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) PRIOR TO USE TO REDUCE ITS VISCOSITY, REDUCE AIR BUBBLE ENTRAPMENT, MAINTAIN ITS WORKING TIME AND INSURE PROPER CURE. IN SOME CASES THE RESIN OR PART A MAY APPEAR TO BE CLOUDY OR SOLIDIFIED, WHICH IS AN INDICATION OF RESIN CRYSTALLIZATION.

HEAT PROCESSED

PARTIALLY CRYSTALLIZED

CRYSTALLIZED SOLID

USE BELOW 80°F

DO NOT USE UNLESS PROCESSED

DO NOT USE UNLESS PROCESSED


THE COLD TEMPERATURE EXPOSURE CAN OCCUR DURING TRANSPORT OR DELIVERY OF THE KIT WHERE THE PACKAGE CAN BE EXPOSED TO TEMPERATURES BELOW 50°F AND INITIATE THE RESIN TO CRYSTALIZE OR DEVELOP SEED CRYSTALS. ONCE  A SEED CRYSTAL DEVELOPS, CRYSTALLIZATION WILL OCCUR EVEN IF STORED AT THE PROPER STORAGE TEMPERATURE.


DO NOT THROW AWAY OR USE THE RESIN UNTIL IT HAS BEEN MELTED BACK TO A FREE-FLOWING LIQUID PHASE BY
GENTLE HEATING 120°F TO 150°F.

THE HIGH PURITY EPOXY COMPONENT AND THE ABSENCE OF ANY ACCELERATORS AND OTHER NON-REACTIVE IMPURITIES IN ITS FORMULATION ARE SOME OF THE MANY KEY FACTORS THAT CONTROLS ITS HIGH PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES. 

THE COLD TEMPERATURE WILL ALSO MAKE THE RESIN MUCH THICKER THAN THE STATED VISCOSITY AND WORKING TIME VALUES AS STATED ON THE PHYSICAL TABLES CHART. THIS WILL REDUCE THE POLYMER'S REACTION RATE AND EXTEND ITS CURE TIME. THIS CAN RECTIFIED BY PRE-WARMING BOTH COMPONENT AND USING THE MIXED RESIN IN A CONTROLLED TEMPERATURE ENVIRONMENT NO COOLER THAN 70°F.


COMMON EFFECTS OF COLD TEMPERATURE EXPOSURE

HIGHER OR THICKER VISCOSITY

LESS ACCURACY IN VOLUMETRIC MEASUREMENT DUE TO ITS THICKER CONSISTENCY

CRYSTALLAZIED OR SOLIDIFIED RESIN COMPONENT THAT WILL APPEAR AS A WHITE WAX-LIKE CONSISTENCY

MORE BUBBLE ENTRAPMENT DURING MIXING

SLOWER REACTIVITY

LONGER CURE TIMES

LOWER CURED PERFORMANCE DUE TO NONE FULL CURE POLYMERIZATION

PROCESSING EPOXY RESINS 

TO COUNTER ACT THE AFFECTS OF THE COLD TEMPERATURE EXPOSURE, WARM THE RESIN GENTLY BY PLACING IT IN A PLASTIC BAG AND IMMERSE IT IN HOT WATER OR A WARM ROOM AND ALLOW IT TO ACCLIMATE UNTIL IT IS A VERY CLEAR AND LIQUID IN CONSISTENCY. ALLOW THE RESIN TO COOL 75°F TO 80°F MAXIMUM BEFORE ADDING THE CURING AGENT.

PLACE CURSOR OVER THE SLIDESHOW TO PAUSE OR PLAY

TO MELT THE CRYSTALLIZED RESIN FASTER, HIGHER PROCESSING TEMPERATURE CAN BE UTILIZED BY PLACING IT IN A PLASTIC BAG OR MAKE SURE THAT THE LID IS SECURE TO PREVENT WATER FROM ENTERING THE CONTAINER AND IMMERSE IT IN HOT WATER, 140°F TO 180°F UNTIL ALL TRACES OF THE CRYSTALLIZED RESIN IS ONCE AGAIN A CLEAR LIQUID. THE CONTAINER CAN WITHSTAND 212°F(BOILING POINT OF WATER); THE RESIN WILL REVERT BACK INTO A LIQUID IN LESS THAN 20 MINUTES. ALLOW THE RESIN TO COOL BELOW 80°F BEFORE ADDING THE CURING AGENT.

A POLYMER RESIN'S PHYSICAL PROPERTY SUCH AS ITS VISCOSITY AND CURE RATE ARE HIGHLY AFFECTED BY THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE AND THE TEMPERATURE OF THE COMPONENTS.

HEAT POST CURING TECHNIQUE FOR FASTER AND THOROUGH CURE

USE AN INFRARED HEAT LAMP FOR LARGER PARTS.

 

 

USE THESE THEORETICAL FACTORS THAT RELATES TO ANY UNDILUTED EPOXY RESIN AS A GUIDE:

 

1 GALLON = 231 CUBIC INCHES

1 GALLON OF RESIN CAN COVERS 1608 SQUARE FEET

1 MIL OR 0.001 INCH CURED COATING THICKNESS

1 GALLON OF RESIN IS 128 OUNCES

1 GALLON OF MIXED EPOXY RESIN IS 9.23 POUNDS

1 GALLON OF RESIN IS 3.7854 LITERS


CAUTION

ALTHOUGH THE POLYMERZATION HAS SLOWED DUE TO THE COLDER AMBIENT CONDITIONS MIXING THE RESIN AND CURING AGENT ABOVE 80°F AS IT WILL CAUSE RAPID POLYMERIZATION AND HIGH EXOTHERMIC HEAT BUILD-UP THAT CAN EXCEED 300°F EXOTHERMIC HEAT WHEN KEPT IN MASS.

DO NOT HEAT AND MIX THE RESIN OR CURING AGENT BEYOND 90°F AS IT MAY CAUSE RAPID AND UNCONTROLLABLE REACTION. THE BEST WORKING CONDITION IS TO PREWARM THE RESIN AND CURING AGENT TO 70°F TO 75°F PRIOR TO MIXING AND ALLOW IT TO CURE AT AN AMBIENT TEMPERATURE NO LOWER THAN 65°F FOR AT LEAST 24 HOURS.

  
PLEASE VIEW THE FOLLOWING VIDEO FOR THE PROPER MIXING OF EPOXY RESINS.  IT DEMONSTRATES THE PROPER
TECHNIQUE OF MIXING ANY TYPE OF EPOXY RESIN SYSTEM.
 
THE PROPER CURE AND FINAL PERFORMANCE OF ANY EPOXY RESIN SYSTEM IS HIGHLY DEPENDENT ON THE QUALITY AND THOROUGHNESS OF THE MIX.
THE RESIN AND CURING AGENT MUST BE MIXED TO HOMOGENOUS CONSISTENCY.
 
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THE PROPER CURE AND FINAL PERFORMANCE OF ANY EPOXY RESIN SYSTEM IS HIGHLY DEPENDENT ON THE QUALITY AND THOROUGHNESS OF THE MIXING QUALITY.

THE RESIN AND CURING AGENT MUST BE MIXED TO HOMOGENEOUS CONSISTENCY TO ACHIEVE PROPER CURE AND TACK FREE RESULTS.

OUR COMPUTER TO VIEW THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS AND VIDEOS.

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BASIC EPOXY RESIN MIXING 

AND 

USAGE APPLICATIONS

PLEASE VIEW THE FOLLOWING VIDEO FOR THE PROPER MIXING OF EPOXY RESINS. IT DEMONSTRATES THE PROPER TECHNIQUE OF MIXING ANY TYPE OF EPOXY RESIN. THE PROPER CURE AND FINAL PERFORMANCE OF ANY EPOXY RESIN SYSTEM IS HIGHLY DEPENDENT ON THE QUALITY AND THOROUGHNESS OF THE MIX. THE RESIN AND CURING AGENT MUST BE MIXED TO HOMOGENEOUS CONSISTENCY

CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO PAUSE OR PLAY SLIDE SHOW

THE PROPER CURE AND FINAL PERFORMANCE OF ANY EPOXY RESIN SYSTEM IS HIGHLY DEPENDENT ON THE QUALITY AND THOROUGHNESS OF THE MIXING QUALITY. THE RESIN AND CURING AGENT MUST BE MIXED TO HOMOGENEOUS CONSISTENCY TO ACHIEVE PROPER CURE AND TACK FREE RESULTS.

Basic Epoxy Resin Usage - Avoiding Exothermic Runaway Reactions


OTHER MAX 1618 APPLICATIONS

MAX 1618 A/B THICK COATINGS APPLICATION ON WOOD PLAQUES BAR TOPS AND COUNTER TOPS

The coverage will depend on 3 basic factors:

1. The thickness of the coating measuring from an impermeable substrate

The type of substrate or material

Will it absorb the liquid coating or not

The surface profile or roughness

The surface tension of the substrate

2. The method of application that will dictate the USAGE or LOSS FACTOR

Spraying the coating has the highest loss factor

Roll coating is less

Brush applied is even less

Flow coating yield the lowest material loss factor

3. Solids content; the MAX 1618 A/B is 100% solids meaning it does not contain any volatile solvents or nothing evaporates from the applied coating

COVERAGE CALCULATION GUIDE

USE THESE THEORETICAL FACTORS TO DETERMINE COVERAGE OF ANY UNFILLED EPOXY RESIN

TO DETERMINE COVERAGE ON A FLAT SMOOTH SURFACE, CALCULATE THE LENGTH X WIDTH X THICKNESS IN INCHES

TO OBTAIN THE CUBIC VOLUME INCH OF THE MIXED RESIN NEEDED.

USE THE FOLLOWING EQUATION:

1 GALLON OF RESIN CAN COVERS 1604 SQUARE FEET

PER 1 MIL OR 0.001 INCH CURED COATING THICKNESS

(LENGTH X WIDTH X COATING THICKNESS)/ 231 CUBIC INCHES PER GALLON = CUBIC INCHES OF COATING NEED

FOR EXAMPLE

50 INCHES X 36 INCHES X 0.010 (10 MILS) = 18 CUBIC INCHES

18/231= .0779 GALLON OF MIXED RESIN

USE THE FOLLOWING FACTORS TO DETERMINE THE GALLON NEEDED AND THE CONVERT IT TO THE APPROPRIATE VOLUME OR WEIGHT:

FOR EXAMPLE:

231 X .0779 = 17.99 CUBIC INCHES

OR

4195 GRAMS X .0779 = 326.79 GRAMS


FLUID GALLON VOLUME CONVERSION

1 GALLON = 231 CUBIC INCHES

1 GALLON = 128 OUNCES

1 GALLON= 3.7854 LITERS

1 GALLON= 4 QUARTS

1 GALLON= 16 CUPS

FLUID GALLON TO MASS CONVERSIONS

1 GALLON OF MIXED UNFILLED EPOXY RESIN = 9.23 POUNDS

1 GALLON OF MIXED UNFILLED EPOXY RESIN = 4195 GRAMS

COMPOSITES FABRICATION APPLICATIONS

10" x 10" panel = 12K 2x2 Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Panel 12 Plies 

Impregnated with MAX 1618 A/B Vacuum Bag Laminated



TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS,
PLACE THE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS

Tail Fin = 3K 2x2 Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Impregnated with

MAX 1618 A/B Vacuum Infused

ADOBE FLASH PAYER MUST BE INSTALLED IN YOUR BROWSER

http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/


TO PAUSE OR PLAY THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOWS, PLACE THE CURSOR
ON THE PICTURE TO ACTIVATE VIEWING CONTROLS


FOR REFERENCE ONLY
Composite Fabricating Basics

By resolute definition, a fabricated COMPOSITE material is a manufactured collection of two or more ingredients or products intentionally combined to form a new homogeneous material that is defined by its performance that should uniquely be greater than the sum of its individual parts. This method is also defined as SYNERGISTIC COMPOSITION.

COMPOSITE MATERIAL COMPOSITION

REINFORCING FABRIC                          IMPREGNATING RESIN

PLUS EPOXY RESIN BOAT BUILDING MARINE GRADE 1 GALLON KIT

ENGINEERED PROCESS

EQUALS

STRUCTURAL STRENGTH COMPOSITE LAMINATE

 

PLACE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO PAUSE AND PLAY SLIDE SHOW


With respect to the raw materials selection( fabric and resin), the fabricating process and the intended composite properties, these 3 aspects must be carefully considered and in the engineering and manufacturing phase of the composite.

The following are some of the basic steps and guidelines for consideration.

 

STEP ONE: FABRIC SELECTION

 

TYPES OF FABRIC WEAVE STYLE AND SURFACE FINISHING

FOR RESIN TYPE COMPATIBILITY

PLAIN WEAVE

Is a very simple weave pattern and the most common style. The warp and fill yarns are interlaced over and under each other in alternating fashion. Plain weave provides good stability, porosity and the least yarn slippage for a given yarn count.

8 HARNESS SATIN WEAVE

The eight-harness satin is similar to the four-harness satin except that one filling yarn floats over seven warp yarns and under one.

This is a very pliable weave and is used for forming over curved surfaces.

4 HARNESS SATIN WEAVE

The four-harness satin weave is more pliable than the plain weave and is easier to conform to curved surfaces typical in reinforced plastics. In this weave pattern there is a three by one interfacing where a filling yarn floats over three warp yarns and under one.

2x2 TWILL WEAVE

Twill weave is more pliable than the plain weave and has better drivability while maintaining more fabric stability than a four or eight harness satin weave. The weave pattern is characterized by a diagonal rib created by one warp yarn floating over at least two filling yarns.


COMMERCIAL FIBERGLASS-FABRIC WEAVER
Finishing Cross Reference
And
Resin Type Compatibility

RESIN COMPATIBILITY

Burlington Industries

Clark Schwebel

J.P Stevens

Uniglass Industries

Epoxy, Polyester

VOLAN A

VOLAN A

VOLAN A

VOLAN A

Epoxy, Polyester

I-550

CS-550

S-550

UM-550

Phenolic, Melamine

I-588

A1100

A1100

A1100

Epoxy, Polyimide

I-589

Z6040

S-920

UM-675

Epoxy

I-399

CS-272A

S-935

UM-702

Epoxy

CS-307

UM-718

Epoxy

CS-344

UM-724

Silicone

112

112

n-pH (neutral pH)


Satin Weave Style For Contoured Parts Fabricating

These styles of fabrics are one of the easiest fabrics to use and it is ideal for laying up cowls, fuselages, ducts and other contoured surfaces with minimal distortions. The fabric is more pliable and can comply with complex contours and spherical shapes. Because of its tight weave style, satin weaves are typically used as the surface ply for heavier and courser weaves. This technique helps reduce fabric print through and requires less gel coat to create a smoother surface.


SATIN WEAVE TYPE CONFORMITY UNTO CURVED SHAPES
CLICK ON THE SLIDE SHOW TO PAUSE OR PLAY

Plain Weaves, Bi-axial, Unidirectional Styles For Directional High Strength Parts

Use this weave style cloth when high strength parts are desired.

It is ideal for reinforcement, mold making, aircraft and auto parts tooling, marine and other composite lightweight applications.

PLAIN WEAVE STYLE FOR HIGH STRENGTH

CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO PAUSE OR PLAY SLIDE SHOW

Please visit our eBay store for all available composite fabric suitable for your needs.


STEP TWO: CHOOSE THE BEST EPOXY RESIN
Choose the best epoxy resin system for the job
The principal role of the resin is to bind the fabric into a homogeneous rigid substrate
called a composite laminate or FRP- FIBER REINFORCED PLASTIC.
The epoxy resin used in fabricating a laminate will dictate how the
FRP will perform when load or pressure is implied on the part.
To choose the proper resin system consider the following factors
that is crucial to a laminate's performance.
SIZE AND CONFIGURATION OF THE PART
(NUMBER OF PLIES AND CONTOURED, FLAT OR PROFILED)
CONSOLIDATING FORCE
(FREE STANDING DRY OR HAND LAY-UP, VACUUM BAG OR PLATEN PRESS CURING)
CURING CAPABILITIES
(HEAT CURED OR ROOM TEMPERATURE CURED)
LOAD PARAMETERS
(SHEARING FORCE, TORSIONAL AND DIRECTIONAL LOAD, BEAM STRENGTH)
ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE
(OPERATING TEMPERATURE, HUMIDITY, CHEMICAL EXPOSURE, FORCE LOADING)
MATERIAL AND PRODUCTION COST
(CURED PERFORMANCE IS COST DRIVEN)
 BUYING IN BULK WILL ALWAYS PROVIDE THE BEST OVERALL COSTS

These factors will dictate the design and the composition of the part and must be carefully considered during the design and engineering phase of the fabrication.


OUR GENERAL EPOXY RESIN SYSTEMS FORMULATED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS


MAX BOND THIXOTROPIC 64-OUNCE KIT


MAX BOND LOW VISCOSITY A/B MARINE GRADE STRUCTURAL EPOXY RESIN


MAX HTE A/B HIGH TEMPERATURE EPOXY RESIN SYSTEM


MAX PCR A/B WOOD ROT REPAIR & PROTECTIVE COATING RESIN


MAX GRE A/B GASOLINE RESISTANT EPOXY RESIN



MAX GPE A/B CLEAR LOW COST GENERAL PURPOSE EPOXY RESIN

1.5 GALLON KIT



MAX CLR CLEAR LIQUID RESIN SYSTEM**


LOW VISCOSITY VERSION EXTENDED POT LIFE AND IMPROVED FLEXIBILITY

24 OUNCE KIT

1.5 GALLON


30% FASTER SETTING VERSION

MAX CLR FAST SETTING 24 OUNCE KIT

24 OUNCE KIT

1.5 GALLON




MAX BOND LOW VISCOSITY FOR MARINE APPLICATIONS


MAX GPE FOR GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LOW COST APPLICATIONS

SAFE TO USE ON POLYSTYRENE FOAM

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MAX CLR HP CRYSTAL CLEAR HIGH PERFORMANCE APPLICATION

Step Three: Proper Lay-Up Technique

Pre-Lay-Up notes:

Lay out the fabric and precut to size and set aside

Avoid distorting the weave pattern as much as possible
For fiberglass molding, insure the mold is clean and adequate mold release is used
View our video presentation "MAX EPOXY RESIN MIXING TECHNIQUE"
Mix the resin only when all needed materials and implements needed are ready and within reach

Mix the proper amount of resin needed and be accurate proportioning the resin and curing agent. Adding more curing agent than the recommended mix ratio will not promote a faster cure. Over saturation or starving the fiberglass or any composite fabric will yield poor mechanical performance. When mechanical load or pressure is applied on the composite laminate, the physical strength of the fabric should bear the stress and not the resin. If the laminate is over saturated with the resin it will most likely to fracture or shatter instead of rebounding and resist damage.


   

Don’t how much resin to use to go with the fiberglass?

A good rule of thumb is to maintain a minimum of 30 to 35% resin content by weight, this is the optimum ratio used in high performance prepreg (or pre-impregnated fabrics) typically used in aerospace and high performance structural application.For general hand lay-ups, calculate using 60% fabric weight to 40% resin weight as a safe factor. This will insure that the fabricated laminate will be below 40% resin content depending on the waste factor accrued during fabrication.

Place the entire precut fiberglass to be used on a digital scale to determine the fabric to resin weight ratio. Measuring by weight will insure accurate composite fabrication and repeatability, rather than using OSY data.

Typical fabric weights regardless of weave pattern

1 yard of 8 OSY fabric at 38 inches wide weighs 224 grams

1 yard of 10 OSY fabric at 38 inches wide weighs 280 grams

Ounces per square yard or OSY is also know as aerial weight which is the most common unit of measurement for composite fabrics.

To determine how much resin is needed to adequately impregnate the fiberglass, use the following equation:

(Total Weight of Fabric divided by 60%)X( 40%)= weight of mixed resin needed

OR

fw= fabric weight

rc= target resin content

rn=resin needed

MASTER EQUATION

(fw/60%)x(40%)=rn

FOR EXAMPLE

1 SQUARE YARD OF 8-OSY FIBERGLASS FABRIC WEIGHS 224 GRAMS

(224 grams of dry fiberglass / 60%) X 40% = 149.33 grams of resin needed

So for every square yard of 8-ounce fabric,

It will need 149.33 grams of mixed resin.

Computing for resin and curing agent requirements based on

149.33 grams of resin needed

MIX RATIO OF RESIN SYSTEM IS 2:1 OR

50 PHR (per hundred resin)

2 = 66.67% (2/3)

+

1 = 33.33%(1/3)

=

(2+1)=3 or (66.67%+33.33%)=100% or (2/3+1/3)= 3/3

149.33x 66.67%= 99.56 grams of Part A RESIN

149.33 x 33.33%= 49.77 grams of Part B Curing Agent

      99.56+ 49.77 = 149.33 A/B MIXTURE

      GENERAL FIBERGLASSING AND FRP FABRICATION

A 4 X 8 FEET 3/8 INCH THICK FIBERGLASS PANEL WAS FABRICATED WITH 18 PLIES OF 24 OUNCE FIBERGLASS ROVING IMPREGNATED WITH

MAX 1618 RESIN SYSTEM.

 

THE PANEL WAS VACUUM CURED FOR 24 HOURS AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AND THEN POST CURED FOR 2 HOURS AT 200°F

AND THEN TESTED USING ASTM D695 TEST PROCEDURE.

 
  
 
32 PERCENT AVERAGE RESIN CONTENT
    
 
 


DETERMINATION OF FIBER TO RESIN RATIO

PLACE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO PAUSE AND PLAY SLIDE SHOW

 
NOTE THE MODE OF FAILURE OF THE COMPRESSION SPECIMENS ILLUSTRATING A CROSS AXIS FROM THE TOP AND BOTTOM PF THE SPECIMEN.
UNDER MAGNIFIED EXAMINATION, EVIDENCE OF RESIN MATRIX RESIDUE WAS PRESENT ON EACH PLY OF THE FIBERGLASS, THIS MODE OF FAILURE DENOTES A COHESIVE
FAILURE OR A DIRECT SPLITTING OF THE RESIN ITSELF.
 
15,116 PSI MAXIMUM COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH


Common Factors Of 100% Solids (Zero volatile and unfilled epoxy resin)

1 gallon of resin = 4239 grams (1.12 g/cc)

1 gallon = 128 fluid ounces

1 gallon of resin = 231 cubic inches

1 fluid ounce of resin = 33.17 grams

Apply the mixed resin unto the surface and then lay the fabric and allow the resin to saturate through the fabric.

NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND

This is one of the most common processing error that yields sub-standard laminates. By laying the fiberglass unto a film of resin, less air bubbles are entrapped during the wetting-out stage. Air is pushed up and outwards instead of forcing the resin through the fabric which will entrap air bubbles. This technique will displace air pockets unhindered and uniformly disperse throughout the fiberglass with minimal mechanical agitation or spreading.

Note the slide show presentation

PLACE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO PAUSE AND PLAY SLIDE SHOW

Typical Fiberglass Reinforcing Technique Unto A Wood Substrate

PLACE CURSOR ON THE PICTURE TO PAUSE AND PLAY SLIDE SHOW

For Vacuum Bagging Process

VACUUM BAGGING

INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO


MAX BOND LOW VISCOSITY A/B

LAMINATE CONFIGURATION FLAT PANEL

USED FOR STRUCTURAL APPLICATIONS

ROOM TEMPERATURE CURED

HEXCEL 7781 9 OUNCE 8-HARNESS SATIN WEAVE TOP AND BOTTOM PLIE

PLUS

15 LAYERS CORE 24-OUNCE FIBERGLASS PLAIN WEAVE ROVING

LAMINATE CONFIGURATION CONTOURED SPEAKER ENCLOSURE

MAX CLR-HP A/B used

FOR CARBON FIBER CRYSTAL CLEAR HIGH PERFORMANCE SINGLE PLY 12-OUNCE 2X2 TWILL WEAVE CARBON FIBER

Given enough time and the proper selection of the fabric's surface treatment (fabric to resin compatibility), a dry fabric will seek a state equilibrium and distribute the applied resin and naturally release air bubbles entrapped within the laminate. It is then very important that the proper viscosity, working time and surface treatment of the fabric must be considered depending on the application of the composite structure. There are also fabricating techniques that can be employed to yield high performance laminates. Depending on the size of the part, processes such as high pressure pressing, vacuum bagging and vacuum assisted resin transfer molding are superior methods over hand dry lay-up. Air voids or porosity within the laminate is typically where failure propagates when load is applied(fracturing, compression failure, tearing, torque, tensile strength, creep).

VACUUM RESIN FUSION PROCESS WITH MAX 1618 A/B


STEP FOUR: PROPER CURING

Allow the lay-up to cure for a minimum of 24 to 36 hours before handling.

Optimum cured properties can take up to 7 days depending on the ambient cure condition.

The ideal temperature cure condition of most room temperature epoxy resin is 22 to 27 degrees Celsius at 20% relative humidity.

Higher ambient curing temperatures will promote faster polymerization and development of cured mechanical properties.


Improving mechanical performance via post heat cure

A short heat post cure will further improve the mechanical performance of most epoxy resins. Allow the applied resin system to cure at room temperature until for 18 to 24 hours and if possible, expose heat cure it in an oven or other source of radiant heat (220°F to 250°F) for 45 minute to an hour. You can also expose it to direct sunlight but place a dark colored cover, such as a tarp or cardboard to protect it from ultraviolet exposure.

In general room temperature cured epoxy resin has a maximum operating temperature of 250°F and 160°F or lower if it is under stress or load.

A short heat post cure will insure that the mixed epoxy system is fully cured, especially for room temperature cured system that can take up to 7 days to 100% cure

Some darkening or yellowing of the epoxy resin may occur if over exposed to high temperature (>250 F).


AMINE BLUSH

The affinity of an amine compound (curing agent) to moisture and carbon dioxide creates a carbonate compound and forms what is called amine blush.

Amine blush is a wax-like layer that forms as most epoxies cure. If the epoxy system is cured in extreme humidity (>70%).

It will be seen as a white and waxy layer that must be removed by physical sanding of the surface followed by an acetone wipe.Although we have formulated the MAX CLR, MAX BOND and MAX GPE product line to be resistant to amine-blush, it is recommended not to mix any resin systems in high humidity conditions, greater than 70%.

Always make sure that the substrate or material the epoxy resin system is being applied to is as dry as possible to insure the best cured performance.


OTHER TYPES OF EPOXY RESIN CURE MECHANISM


LATENT CURING SYSTEMS

Latent epoxy resins are systems that are mixed together at room temperature and will begin polymerization but it will not achieve full cure unless it is exposed to a heat cure cycle. In general, these are high performance systems that demonstrate exceptional performance under extreme conditions such as high mechanical performance under heat and cryogenics temperatures, chemical resistance or any environment that epoxy room temperature system perform marginally or poorly.

Upon the mixing of the resin and curing agent polymerization will begin and will only achieve partial cure. Some resins may appear cured or dry to the touch, this state is called 'B-Stage Cure' ,but upon application of force will either be gummy or brittle almost glass-like and will dissolve in most solvents. The semi-cured resin must be exposed to an elevated temperature for it to continue polymerization and achieve full cure.


UV CURING SYSTEMS

Similar to "addition cure" or catalytic polymerization, Ultraviolet Curing is another method that has gained popular use in the polymer adhesives and coatings application. It offers a unique curing mechanism that converts a liquid polymer into a solid plastic upon exposure to UV radiation. The two common commercially significant method are "FREE RADICAL INITIATION" and CATIONIC REACTION. In both reaction polymerization occurs via decomposition of a Photoiniator blended within the resin system; upon exposure to adequate wavelength of Ultraviolet energy the photoinitator degrades and cause a ring opening or cleavage of the photoinitiator molecule and induces rapid polymerization or crosslinking. These species can be either free radical or cationic and occurs almost instantaneous creation of a polymer network.


HEAT ACTIVATED CURING SYSTEMS

This type of epoxy system will not polymerized unless it is exposed to the activation temperature of the curing agent which can be as low as 200F and as high as 400F. In most instances these epoxy system can be stored at room temperature and remain liquid for up to six months and longer

USE AN INFRARED HEAT LAMP FOR LARGER PARTS IF A PROCESS OVEN IS NOT AVAILABLE


POSSIBLE HEAT CURING TECHNIQUES

If an oven is not available to provide the needed thermal post cure, exposing the assemble part to direct solar heat

(sun exposure) for a period will provide enough heat cure for the part to be handled.

Other heat curing such as infrared heat lamps can be used if a heat chamber or oven is not available.


3 Hours (after 24 hours room temperature cure) solar exposure Infrared heat bulb 3 hour exposure (200oF average) vacuum bag cure

DON'T FORGET OUR EPOXY MIXING KIT

Our Epoxy Mixing Kit comes with all the necessary utensils and protective gloves needed for mixing, dispensing or applying any of our MAX EPOXY SYSTEM in one convenient kit.
Avoid Cross Contamination
Save Time
Measure Mix Ratio Accurately By Volume
Reusable
Safely Handle Chemicals
Use the included measuring cups to accurately measure the proper amount of Resin and Curing Agent.
The plastic mixing tubs are made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), which withstands the tenacity of the epoxy resin and curing agent.
The paper cups are wax-free and the plastic tub comes with air-tight lids that make it an excellent temporary storage container.
Upon cure, any residue demolds easily from the plastic tubs and can be reused.
As a general practice, protective gloves should be worn at all times when handling chemicals.
Our MAX EPOXY MIXING KIT comes with 5 pairs of powder free Latex Gloves to protect the user from direct contact with the epoxy resin system that will reduce sensitization or contact dermatitis.

(CAUTION; an appreciable amount of people are highly allergic to latex materials. 
Please be aware that the gloves included in this kit are not tested for latex sensibility, please visit 
www.nyallergy.com/latex.php
for more details

MIXING KIT CONTENTS
4 each 32 ounce (1 Quart) clear HDPE plastic tubs
4 each 16 ounce (1 pint) clear HDPE plastic tubs
4 each clear HDPE plastic Lids for the plastic tubs
4 each 8 ounce (1/2-Pint) Wax Free Paper Cups
5 pairs one size fits all Powder Free Latex Gloves (Large)
6 Piece HDPE Plastic Measuring Spoon Kit
(1 tablespoon to 1/8 teaspoon)
10 Piece HDPE Plastic Measuring Cup
(1 Cup to 1/8 Teaspoon)
2 each None Sterile Graduated 10 cc Syringes
1 pack of Wooden Stir Sticks (100 disposable Chopsticks)
1 pack Assorted Size Bristle Brush (5 per pack)

   

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Hundreds of posted pictures from many other applications with our MAX EPOXY SYSTEM

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IMPORTANT NOTICE

Your purchase constitutes the acceptance of this disclaimer . Please review before purchasing this product.

The user should thoroughly test any proposed use of this product and independently conclude satisfactory performance in the application. Likewise, if the manner in which this product is used requires government approval or clearance, the user must obtain said approval. The information contained herein is based on data believed to be accurate at the time of publication. Data and parameters cited have been obtain through publish information, PolymerProducts and Polymer Composites Inc. laboratories using materials under controlled conditions. Data of this type should not be used for specification for fabrication and design. It is the user's responsibility to determine this Composites fitness for use. There is no warranty of merchantability of fitness of use, nor any other express implied warranty. The user's exclusive remedy and the manufacturer's liability are limited to refund of the purchase price or replacement of the product within the agreed warranty period. Polymer Composites Inc.,Polymer Products and its direct representative will not be liable for incidental or consequential damages of any kind. Determination of the suitability of any kind of information or product for the use contemplated by the user, the manner of that use and whether there is any infringement of patents is the sole liability of the user.