About seven months ago, I ordered and rec'd a gallon set of Epo-Grip epoxy - the regular stuff - from McKenzie's and when it arrived, it was significantly drier than what I had used in the past. I was able to get it to blend okay with thinner and it worked okay. Yesterday, I pried open the same cans and both of them are dried and grainy to the point that they won't blend at all, even with thinner added. Anyone have any ideas? I tried to e/m Newton's but the e/m was returned as undeliverable. There's still a good $45-50 worth of product in these cans and I cringe at the thought of just heaving them and buying new. (And I've already been through the archives where this was covered for every other product, but I didn't find anything for this type.)
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take out equall parts in seperate containers and micro wave for about 20 seconds, mix and if still to firm do it again. Should be ready to use, just let it cool before mixing.
I put my container of Epo-Grip in hot tap water and changed the hot water a couple of times. I then stirred it up with a metal stir stick. It smoothed it right out.
If the two solutions above don't help, Steve can recommend adding #30 liquid to both sides and increasing your volume of usable epoxy. Extended storage of the epoxy hide paste allows the fillers to absorb the moisture and what you're seeing it that effect. Hopefully warming it will help, BUT REMEMBER, mixing warmed epoxy accelerates the cure time. Allow them to cool back to room temperature before mixing them.
Steve is out until tomorrow and I'll give him a call in the morning.
Using anything else is out of the question cause I really like EG and the smooth, full look it gives my gameheads. I've got an elk to do this week so I'll definitely try these ideas in the interrim.
Thanks again.
Had the same thing happen, called the supplier and they told me to micro wave. Worked great
Heres a couple things to always consider when working with any product.
Epo-Grip Epoxy Hide Paste should always be stirred before using. Stirring will equally distribute the solids giving the product an even consistancy. This is important! Because the product will otherwise become thicker because the liquid portions get used up first; thereby making the paste stiffer towards the bottom of the can. Settling of the solids occur especially after long periods non-useage just like paint products.
If your shop is cold (its winter now) your materials will be become quite stiff until re-warmed back to normal room temperatures around 75 degrees. So if supplies are stored in a cold shop enviroment remember to warm them (not just ours) before attempting use.
Its a good idea to have a cabinet to store all your chemicals, paints, hide adhesives where they are kept at a working temperature of about 75 degrees. An old refrigerator works well for this purpose as it has shelves already built in. Disable the cooling portion, fix the interior light switch so it remains on all the time. Install a rheostat so you can control the light bulb to regulate the temperature. Place a simple thermometer in the cabinet to monitor things. Your paints and chemicals will be ready for use, stored in a sealed metal cabinet. You will get more consistant results from your products. Stored safely from fire hazard, easily secured from the reach of children with a hasp and a padlock.
Lastly give me a call at 800-888-2467 if needed we will gladly help.