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Solvent for epoxy

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Old 03-08-2007 | 11:38 AM
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Default Solvent for epoxy

I have been using acahol to clean epoxy out of my brushes when I fiberglass. Either I am not cleaning them enough or the achaol is not the best cleaner to use. I know you can use it to thin epoxy Thanks for the help
Old 03-08-2007 | 11:53 AM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

Denatured alcohol alwyas works for me. When I thin West Systems for sealing surfaces like a firewall, the mixture turns milky for a few seconds but clears up nicely and flows well.
Old 03-08-2007 | 12:00 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

For cleaning brushes I use alcohol too. Use the 90% alcohol instead of the 70%.

Ken
Old 03-08-2007 | 12:20 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

When using thinned out epoxy to fuel proof things I have found that the best way to clean the brushes is to throw them in to the garbage can. [sm=wink_smile.gif]

I buy a package of 10 disposable 1/2" brushes from the local hardware store for ~$4.00 and I don't look back.

Life is too short to worry about the little stuff!
Old 03-08-2007 | 12:22 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

Okay Ken, now where would I find 90% alcohol?
Larry
Old 03-08-2007 | 12:35 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

You can find 90% alcohol in your local drugstore. You may have to ask for it though, as a lot of places keep it behind the counter. Around here we have to ask as they will not usually put it on the shelves. ???? Also, FWIW, MEK (Methylethyl Ketone) is used as a solvent for epoxy. If you use MEK, use gloves as it is easily absorbed thru the skin.
Old 03-08-2007 | 12:43 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

I stay away from MEK if you can. Not that it does`nt work but it`s bad for you.
Old 03-08-2007 | 12:48 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

Hi!
Alcohol isn't that good for cleaning epoxy. Aceton is much better!
Old 03-08-2007 | 01:25 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

Use the heat gun! It will make hardened expoxy like water. DP
Old 03-09-2007 | 07:27 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

I brush the alcohol out on a wooden table when cleaning a brush, which works reasonably well.

Bill
Old 03-09-2007 | 08:47 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

The best solvent for cleaning brushes is acetone that is what i keep my brushes in all the time . Squeeze out all the epoxy you can then drop your brush in acetone and leave it in the acetone . Also best if you use a air tight container . Bob
Old 03-09-2007 | 10:48 PM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

For thinning epoxy you want to find 99 percent pure alcohol. The water in the lower levels of alcohol will not allow the epoxy to cure correctly. I find a 99 percent pure at my Safeway. As for brushes, I have to agree that the disposable brushes are the best. I get them at my local hobby shop for .35 each. Cleanup is a snap. Good Luck, Dave
Old 03-10-2007 | 09:30 AM
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Default RE: Solvent for epoxy

Cheap laquer thinner from WalMart works well to clean epoxy out of brushes or to cleanup spray guns after shooting epoxy paint.

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