Hysol mix

[Flybyjim]

Tonight I made my first mix of Hysol. What have people used for accurate mix rates. I was a bit surprised at the short setup time with micro balloons mixed in. I bought the quick build so this mix was for the reinforcement plates on the wing spars.

Jim

[TahoeTim]

In a previous conversation, 50/50 by weight vs 50/50 by volume was discussed and as I recall the factory said either is ok. I mix by weight using a small electronic scale since it is much easier to adjust weight than volume.

[Kahle76]

From what I remember, there are different Hysol products and the mixing ratios are also different. Follow the recommendations in the instructions. Adequate mixing is extremely important, but I have noticed that that the longer you mix the product, the shorter the cure time.
Mike

[Esser]

Hey Jim, I threw this post together a while ago. It may help you. I try to make batches 60 to 100 grams depending what I am doing. I find the bigger the batch the faster it sets up.

http://www.teamkitfox.com/Forums/showthread.php?t=4761&

[jiott]

I mixed by volume with measuring spoons leveled off for my whole project. Yes I also noticed the larger batches seemed to set up sooner; I think it is because of the larger amount of heat generated.

[jrevens]

Like Jim, I mixed with measuring spoons leveled off also. Very quick & easy. For average size batches I used dixie cups and popsicle sticks ( bought a whole box of them - cheap). Exactly right that heat speeds up the curing process. Larger quantities create more heat. If you use & spread it out right away, doesn't matter much. While it's sitting in the mixing container in a big glob, it makes a big difference.

[jtpitkin06]

When mixing the 50/50 Hysol doing it by volume is about as close to doing it by weight.

When mixing larger batches use a sheet of HDPE plastic or glass. Mix it with an auto body squeegee keeping it thin on the sheet to prevent heat build-up. This method gets a good mix, blends easily and results in maximum working time. When the mixture kicks off it's easy to clean. Scrape the mixing sheet with a single edge razor blade or a sharp putty knife while the epoxy is still rubbery.

And as a reminder, Hysol can get granulated in cold weather. Just warm it up with a heat gun and stir it thoroughly. The granules will melt right in.