WEST SYSTEM EPOXY

WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy is a superior, two-component epoxy, lauded for its versatility across an extensive array of coating and adhesive applications. Its exceptional resistance to moisture and robust strength, render it particularly suitable for marine applications.

The product line includes the WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin, Hardeners, Fillers, Additives, Reinforcing Materials, Metering Pumps, and Application Tools. The design of all these components takes into account the user’s needs. To help you choose the right products for your project, there is a Product Selection Guide available in 18 different languages.

A team of experienced professionals complements the long-standing history with technical support. In addition, global distributors are handpicked and equipped with the knowledge to assist throughout the experience with the WEST SYSTEM range.

What is WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin System?

This system, which includes a clear, low-viscosity liquid epoxy resin, is compatible with any of the four WEST SYSTEM hardeners available. It boasts excellent performance and can cure over a broad temperature range, resulting in a exceptionally strong bond, with outstanding moisture resistance.

The 105 Epoxy Resin wets out and bonds with a range of materials, including wood fibre, fibreglass, reinforcing fabrics, composite materials, and various metals. It finds use in a multitude of projects, such as marine applications, boat repair, adhesion, fabrication, moulding, furniture, and casting.

The epoxy resin’s working time varies depending on the chosen hardener, ranging from 60 minutes to 260 hours at 25°C. Similarly, the cure time spans from 5 hours to 24 hours, contingent on the selected hardener. The product is available in sizes from 250g to 225kg.

The 105 Epoxy Resin System also incorporates a selection guide to assist users in pairing the 105 Resin with one of four hardeners to best suit their working temperatures, desired cure speed, and coating clarity. It also provides estimates for the quantity of epoxy required to apply 1 sq. ft. of fibreglass cloth.

Choosing The Right Hardener?

These components modify the handling characteristics and the physical properties of the cured epoxy mixture to tailor the mixture to your working conditions and the specific coating or bonding application.

205 Fast Hardener®

The 205 Fast Hardener, a component of a professional-grade epoxy system, coats and bonds at lower temperatures. It enables a rapid cure, creating a high-strength, moisture-resistant bond. Various projects, including marine applications and boat repair, utilise it. At 25°C, its pot life lasts 10 to 15 minutes and it reaches a solid state in 5 to 7 hours.

We recommend pre-warming the resin and hardener for easy dispensing and application. You must prepare the surface between epoxy coats, and it’s crucial to remove the amine blush before applying the next coat.

The epoxy requires additional cure time before removing clamps or stressing joints. Gradually elevate the temperature of the partially cured epoxy to complete cross-linking The final cure time depends on the hardener speed and temperature, and should not exceed 140°F (60°C) when applying heat.

206 Fast Hardener®

Use the 206 Fast Hardener, a low-viscosity curing agent, when you require a quicker cure time or working time. It also offers an appropriate working time at elevated temperatures. When mixed with 105 Resin, the cured result is a sturdy, high-strength bond that is resistant to moisture. However, it is not suitable for clear coating applications.

A variety of projects, including marine applications and boat repairs, utilise the 206 Fast Hardener. The pot life is 20 to 30 minutes at 25°C, and it solidifies in 9 to 12 hours. The epoxy’s curing process accelerates at higher temperatures and in thicker applications. The minimum recommended temperature for curing is 16°C.

207 Special Clear®

The 207 Special Clear Hardener, is specifically designed for applications requiring clear, moisture-resistant finishes. Ideal for use on carbon fibre or natural wood, it’s perfect for a range of projects including marine applications, boat repairs, and clear casting.

This hardener offers a pot life of 25 to 30 minutes at 22°C, transitioning to a solid state in 10 to 15 hours. It’s available in a variety of sizes, from 0.29kg (207-A) to a substantial 64.5kg (209-E).

When preparing to cast a clear epoxy coat over flat surfaces, it’s crucial to ensure proper preparation. The curing process accelerates at higher temperatures and in thicker applications, with a minimum recommended curing temperature of 16°C.

Lastly, the mix ratio is key: 3 parts resin to 1 part hardener. This ensures the epoxy reaches its full potential for cured physical properties.

209 Extra Slow Hardener®

Use the 209 Extra Slow Hardener for general coating and bonding applications when you’re working in extremely warm and/or humid conditions, or when you need an extended working time at room temperature. This hardener provides approximately double the working time of the 206 Slow Hardener. When combined with the 105 Resin, it forms a high-strength, moisture-resistant solid with excellent bonding and coating properties. However, it’s not intended for clear coating.

This product is commonly used in marine applications, boat repair, bonding, fabrication, and barrier coating. The cure time varies depending on the temperature and application thickness. For a 100-gram cupful, the pot life at 25°C is between 50 to 70 minutes. The working time for a thin film at the same temperature is between 200 to 260 minutes, and it reaches a solid state in 20 to 24 hours. Please note that epoxy cures faster at higher temperatures and in thicker applications.

The minimum recommended temperature for curing is 18°C. The 209 Hardener is available in various sizes: 209-A (0.29kg), 209-B (1.45kg), 209-C (7.2kg), and 209-E (64.5kg). These sizes refer to the hardener only and do not include the resin sizes.

In warmer temperatures, epoxy cures faster. To ensure adequate working time when using epoxy in warm conditions, consider the amount of time you need and the temperature you’ll be working at, then select the hardener accordingly. For hot temperatures, the 209 Hardener is recommended.

The 209 Mix Ratio is 3 parts resin to 1 part hardener.

Choosing The Right Filler?

WEST SYSTEM Epoxy fillers enhance the basic blend of epoxy resin and hardener for specific tasks. Each epoxy filler variant possesses distinct physical characteristics, but they generally fall into two groups:

1. Adhesive (high-density) for bonding-related tasks.
2. Fairing (low-density) for tasks involving sanding and fairing.

The addition of these fillers to the epoxy resin and hardener mix allows for the adjustment of the epoxy’s consistency. This modification enables the filling of joint gaps, the creation of either robust or sandable epoxy fillets, or the alteration of the epoxy’s cured density to make sanding more manageable.

You can view the Filler Selection Guide for more information.

Do WEST SYSTEM Have Pumps?

WEST SYSTEM Epoxy Metering Pumps are designed to precisely measure WEST SYSTEM Epoxy Resin and Hardener. This precision ensures the correct mix ratio, which is crucial for the epoxy to achieve its maximum cured physical properties.

The pumps are calibrated to eliminate any guesswork and mess. They come in various capacities, catering to all types of epoxy users. Whether you’re a hobbyist working on small projects or a large-scale manufacturer using large amounts of epoxy daily, there’s a pump for you. The importance of the correct epoxy resin to hardener ratio cannot be overstated. It’s the key to unlocking the full potential of the epoxy.

Click here for more information on our WEST SYSTEM Epoxy Metering Pumps.

“West Is Best”