Epoxy

[Mark K]

Any preferences towards epoxies? I'm sticking with 5 minute since I don't have a drying motor, only a rotary vise. A lot of them tell you to avoid prolonged exposure to water. I assume "prolonged" referes to days.

 

Do any yellow less than others?

 

I want to coat all my clouser heads to make them more durable, but I was also thinking about playing around with some mylar tubing type bodies.

[kend]

5 minute epoxies generally aren't waterproof.

Such that exposure to moisture, high humidity, or the like, for extended periods, will result in unsatisfactory results.

(To date, I haven't found a waterproof 5 min epoxy).

 

A few jig manufacturers, like the Cubby Jigs, use 2 "spray-on epoxy" coats, as a top coat.

 

I've generally used "head cement", as an overall sealer/coating.

It's quick drying, very durable, chip resistance and remains transparent.

 

Epoxy can be dried at a faster rate, at a slightly elevated temperature.

(You'll need to check with the OEM, for their recommended procedures).

 

NOTE: there are some materials that contain chemicals that will effect some materials.

It's best to try it on small objects or surfaces before proceeding to a larger area or with production.

Akin to the super-stretchy plastic lures that will melt some tackle box trays. Some plastic materials will soften when in contact with some paints & finishes.

[Mike G]

Mark,

 

I use 30 minute to have a longer working life. I apply a thin coat with a camel hair brush so that running is seldom a problem.

 

The standard poop on yellowing is that faster curing epoxies yellow more. Flex Coat epoxies are formulated for rod building and are advertised as non-yellowing though they tend to have that longer curing time.

 

Since I don't think fish care about yellowing, I have used 30 minute stuff on jig heads and to finish rod windings and to assemble cork grips. These stand up to water just fine.

 

BTW, since water is not part of the chemistry of epoxies, it is hard to imagine that they would be water soluable. Just my magination.

[Guest rich mc]

other sites have mentioned a product called tuffleye or something like it. it gets cured by uv light . bob popovic the saltwater fly specialist has switched to it.. rich

[Guest]

I've read about tuffleye too. Hardens with UV light in 15 seconds, no sagging, no long drying time and no yellowing. Just very pricy. I think the smallest kit you can buy it in is about $40.00. But you know I've got to try it. I like the minimum drying time with no mess, no waste idea.