QUESTION: Why does crystallization happen?
ANSWER:
Simply put, the liquid resin is fighting to return to its natural state, which is a solid form. Crystallization in epoxies is so common that major manufacturers have written datasheets on the subject....
QUESTION:
Why aren’t packages of less than 2.5 or 2 grams available?
ANSWER:
Some epoxy manufacturers offer 2.5-gram packages as their smallest quantity; one manufacturer offers a 2-gram package. When packaging the material, the manufacturers are...
QUESTION: How can I select the right epoxy for a new application?
ANSWER:
I’m happy to help you determine the epoxy that will work best for your application. Just send an email to me at KBarker@focenter.com and include answers to these questions:
Can you...
QUESTION: Do you have epoxy information in the form of a matrix?
ANSWER
FOC does have a Single Fiber, Single Mode and Multimode terminations matrix that can be found in the BLOG ARTICLE: Does epoxy cause core cracking? Tips to identify and prevent...
QUESTION: Our epoxy is past expiration – can it still be used?
ANSWER:
Fiber Optic Center recommends that you test the material before using it in your production process. Cure it to see if it sets as expected. However, it’s difficult to determine...
QUESTION: How precise are the epoxy packaging weights?
ANSWER:
The fiber optic world is driven by precision. If you purchase a 4-gram package, you can rely on getting 4 grams of epoxy. This is a data point to consider as you determine which package size...
QUESTION: Does Fiber Optic Center accept returns of crystallized epoxies?
ANSWER:
It’s important to remember that there’s nothing wrong with the material. Since crystallized epoxy is not defective, we do not accept returns. Of course, if you encounter a...
QUESTION:
Would premixed, frozen epoxy work better for my process?
ANSWER:
Our customers who use premixed, frozen epoxy report two major benefits: (1) No need to worry about improper mixing due to operator error. Epoxy that is overmixed, undermixed, or...
QUESTION:
We have issues with crystallized epoxy: has the epoxy had “gone bad”?
ANSWER:
This question has come up so often, I have written an article to educate our customers about crystallization in epoxies including information on:
How this...
QUESTION:
I found crystals in our epoxy. Does this mean it has gone bad?
ANSWER:
Crystallization in epoxies can look like salt granules in an otherwise clear liquid. Or the epoxy may look foggy, milky, or grainy. Or it may have solidified. Rest assured,...
