Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Knosaj on February 07, 2014, 10:38:37 pm

Title: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: Knosaj on February 07, 2014, 10:38:37 pm
Anyone use west system epoxy? Or are some of the wood workers glue better?
Title: Re: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: PatM on February 07, 2014, 11:02:00 pm
The basic West system is more of a coating Epoxy rather than a structural laminating adhesive. You can modify it to use an adhesive but there are better choices in the West line-up.
 Use their G Flex or 610 if available. The G flex is great stuff for bow building.
Title: Re: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: Don Case on February 07, 2014, 11:07:56 pm
I haven't used it on any bows yet but I will when the need arises. I've used it on my model sailboats for 10 years and it's never let me down.
Title: Re: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: Don Case on February 07, 2014, 11:09:55 pm
I'll bow to Pat's expertise. :D
Title: Re: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: PatM on February 07, 2014, 11:22:09 pm
You're not wrong in that it can be used but the very thin consistency makes it a bit too tricky to keep in the gluing surface without it wicking into the wood or running out of the joint.
 I know one of the guys on Paleoplanet uses it thickened with the West fillers but that takes a bit of practice. Easier to just buy some of the thicker stuff.
 Even West recommends using more appropriate stuff for the job.
Title: Re: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: Don Case on February 07, 2014, 11:42:34 pm
I use an additive called "Cabosil" to thicken it.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fumed_silica
Easy to use
Title: Re: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: BrokenArrow on February 08, 2014, 08:17:13 pm
Use Smooth-On EA-40 as far superior
Title: Re: Glue / west system epoxy?
Post by: Peacebow_Coos on February 09, 2014, 06:24:33 pm
I'm with Don and Pat on this one, I've used it because we used to use it on our wood commercial fishing vessel and it's what I had.  It works but takes some experience knowing the substance.