R&G epossidica metallo (E)

Applications: Highly stress-able, gap-bridging bonds require the use of two component glues which, after both components have been mixed together, will cure into a solid plastic. The two component glues which are based on epoxy resin are distinguished by their being especially good for use with metals.

Treatment: Resin and curing agent (hardener) – the names of the two components – must be mixed in the correct ratios so as to ensure that the full adhesive strength is attained. The apportioning can be done by eye in the case of small amounts but larger amounts (over 20 grams) should be done by weight. The limited working life (open time) requires that the adhesive mixture be made in a sufficient amount to complete the job at hand. During the curing process the glue gives off a great deal of heat – temperatures over 100 ºC can be reached and these can lead to deformations in thin plastic assembly pieces.

Important: Larger amounts of two component glues start to turn into gels sooner because the heat being produced accelerates the reaction. This can be redressed by doing the mixing in a flat bowl. The opposite is naturally also true: by heating the mixture with, for example, a hair dryer, the hardening time of two component glue is shortened. Care should be taken when reclosing the containers: the caps should not be interchanged because they will then glue shut.

Like most epoxy adhesives, the R & G brand is especially good for gluing metal. This adhesive is hard and tough when set and will not break away even in the case of the metal being heated. Joints made with metal epoxy can withstand temperatures up to 100 °C, are resistant to water, oil, benzene and many chemicals and can be drilled or sanded when cured.

If this adhesive is stored under +15 °C both the resin and the hardener can crystallize. This crystallization must be gotten rid of before the adhesive is used by means of warming it in hot water (maximum 50 °C) and subsequently shaking it. This product should only be used if it is completely transparent!

By virtue of a special component in the hardener, this metal epoxy can be used with different mixing ratios (resin to hardener: 100:100 up to 100:50). Different levels of strength are attained depending on the mixing ratio; the highest strength is achieved with a ratio of 100:50. When mixed in this ratio, the R & G metal epoxy can be worked with for a period up to about 2 hours; higher percentages of hardener shorten the working life.