Shop WEST SYSTEM epoxy resin hardeners at West Marine.

Gougeon Brother’s WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin System includes a selection of four different hardeners: 205 Fast, 206 Slow, 209 Extra-Slow, and 207 Special Clear.

Hardeners control the cure speed of WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin.

Each hardener can be used to control the cure speed at a recommended cure temperature to best suit the working environment.

How Temperature Affects the Working Time of WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin.

Temperature can significantly impact the working time of West System 105 Resin. As the temperature increases, the working time of the resin will decrease, causing it to cure more quickly. Conversely, as the temperature decreases, the working time of the resin will increase, causing it to cure more slowly.

It is important to note that the curing reaction of the epoxy resin is exothermic, meaning it generates heat as it cures. This can further affect the working time of the resin, especially in large masses or in confined spaces.

Synopsis of WEST SYSTEM Hardeners

Here are the “Cliffs Notes” on each of these four hardeners:

209 Extra-Slow Hardener: With the slowest curing time, of about 8-10 hours at room temperature, this hardener is a good choice for hot temperatures and for large, thick sections of epoxy.

206 Slow Hardener: With a slower curing time of about 5-6 hours at room temperature, this hardener is a good choice for most general bonding and coating applications.

205 Fast Hardener: It has a faster curing time of about 2-3 hours at room temperature. It is best for fast-paced, high-strength bonding applications.

207 Special Clear Hardener: This hardener provides a crystal clear appearance when used with West System 105 Resin. It has a curing time of about 4-5 hours at room temperature and is a good choice for clear coating applications where appearance is important.