Epoxy should be kept separate until just before use, as mixing initiates a chemical reaction that generates heat and cures the adhesive. Electronic dispensing machines ensure reliable adhesion and eliminate human error. Clogging can be prevented by cleaning the dispenser and using tip caps. Excess adhesive should be removed before curing for a clean joint.
The best tips for dispensing epoxy is to keep the resin and hardener separate and sealed before they are mixed thoroughly just prior to application. Epoxy adhesive is made by combining an epoxide with a polyamine to initiate a chemical reaction. This chemical reaction usually occurs during the epoxy resin dispensing process and generates enough heat to cure the adhesive permanently. Adhesives that harden due to an exothermic reaction are often referred to as thermosetting polymers. Combining the two elements of epoxy resin in improper proportions usually reduces the strength of the reaction and the adhesive.
Epoxy dispensing for large-scale manufacturing processes is often controlled by electronic adhesive dispensing machines. Machines are typically capable of dispensing uniform amounts of epoxide and polymine for reliable adhesion. Most electronic dispensing units are regulated and controlled by computer. This level of control allows the manufacturer to make minor changes to the amount and position of the dispensed adhesive. Human error can be almost completely eliminated from the epoxy dispensing process with the use of adhesive dispensing equipment.
An epoxy resin dispenser can become clogged if you allow the polymer adhesive on the tip to dry. A blockage in the dispensing unit tip can cause one or both epoxies to flow unevenly or not at all. Cleaning the dispenser outlet before storage generally prevents the epoxy from forming a seal. Clogged epoxy dispensing equipment is typically unblocked by cutting away the hardened plastic polymer with a sharp knife or razor blade. Some epoxy dispensing systems come with a tip cap or lid to keep the tubes that hold the adhesive sealed when not in use.
Hand dispensing epoxy requires advance planning and a steady hand. Most household epoxies have a dual syringe design. As the plungers are pushed down into the syringe, they push out the epoxy resin and its polyamine hardener. A toothpick or other stick is often used to mix the separate items together. Epoxy adhesives begin to harden as soon as the two are combined.
Most epoxies are dispensed directly onto one or both sides of the bonding materials. Excessive dispensing of epoxy adhesives leaves a connection with a messy and unprofessional look. Excess epoxy squeezed between bonded materials usually needs to be removed before the heat-setting process has cured the adhesive. Hard plastic cards are sometimes used to scrape off unnecessary adhesives and leave a clean joint.
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