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Epoxy resin is a seriously versatile, tough, and durable material that suits all kinds of applications. It has become a popular medium, used for everything from small craft and art projects – such as jewelry making – to larger DIY and industrial applications – like flooring and tabletops. While epoxy generally can tolerate some exposure to heat, a range of epoxies have been specifically formulated to be high heat resistant. If you are looking for the best high-temperature epoxy resin, there are various products to choose from, each with their own set of characteristics to suit specific applications.
Table of Contents
- 1 Is Epoxy Heat Resistant?
- 2 What are Epoxy Temperature Limits?
- 3 What is High Temp Epoxy?
- 4 The Best Heat Resistant Epoxy: STONE COAT Epoxy
- 4.1 How to Use Stone Coat Epoxy
- 4.1.1 Stone Coat Benefits
- 4.1.2 Step-by-Step Guide to Using Stone Coat Epoxy
- 4.1 How to Use Stone Coat Epoxy
- 5 Can Epoxy Temperature Limits be Reduced?
- 6 High Temperature Epoxy Resin Tips and Tricks
Is Epoxy Heat Resistant?
In general, epoxy resin offers a certain degree of heat resistance. However, the extent of that resistance varies greatly from one product to another. Epoxy resins commonly used for DIY projects and small jobs are not formulated for heat-resistance and should ideally not be used for situations involving frequent exposure to heat.
High-temperature epoxy is a special product that can withstand more intense heat levels without distorting. These higher heat resistant epoxy resins are used for creating things like coasters or countertops that require a greater level of heat tolerance than most surfaces.
What are Epoxy Temperature Limits?
The general, upper temperature limits for standard epoxy resins range from 150 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this heat can only be tolerated for short periods of time. Consistent exposure will lead to damage. In contrast, specially formulated heat-resistant resins can withstand temperatures in and around the 600 degrees Fahrenheit range, depending on the product.
What is High Temp Epoxy?
High-temperature, or heat resistant epoxy is a special class of resin designed to withstand direct contact to intense heat. Unlike regular epoxy, this resin will not warp, crack, or melt if exposed to heat. These types of resin were initially created for use in industrial and commercial settings. In domestic environments, high-temperature epoxy is ideal for countertops. High temp epoxy is also often used for mechanical repairs and electrical coverings. This type of resin is usually more durable and robust.
If regular epoxy were to be directly exposed to heat greater than 68 – 195 degrees Fahrenheit consistently, it will ultimately suffer some form of distortion. Long-term heat exposure will soften most resins to an almost rubber-like consistency. Through the addition of fillers and reinforcements, heat resistant epoxy is engineered to withstand a much increased range of temperatures, depending on the intended application.
The Best Heat Resistant Epoxy: STONE COAT Epoxy
If you are looking for an epoxy brand that can be used in situations that require high heat resistance and heavy use, then Stone Coat is our top recommendation.
- A durable woodworking/countertop epoxy resin
- Scratch-resistant and UV resistant
- Provides a clear and shiny finish
Stone Coat Epoxy can be used on various DIY and home projects and is compatible with multiple surfaces types. Probably the most popular use for this product is creating tabletops and countertops, or updating old surfaces for a fresh look.
Pros
- A high level of durability and stability
- Heat resistant and flame retardant
- You get a perfectly even and flat surface
- A UV resistant epoxy resin
- Completely food safe
- The finish is polished, smooth, and glossy
Cons
- Sometimes heat resistant epoxy can cure to a slightly yellow tint
- The curing process may need additional heating methods
- Can be a more expensive product if used over a large surface area
How to Use Stone Coat Epoxy
Stone Coat is one of the best heat resistant epoxy options out there thanks to its easy to use formula. It is ideal both for home DIY projects, and more demanding applications. This epoxy provides a durable finish that is as hard-wearing as it is good looking.
Stone Coat Benefits
- There is an easy-to-follow training video provided by the manufacturer
- The epoxy is eco-friendly and safe to use
- The formula is free of VOC’s
- Once fully cured, this resin is scratch-resistant and easy to clean
- Heat resistant up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- It cures to a hard and completely clear finish
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Stone Coat Epoxy
Once you know how much resin you will be using and know where you will apply it, the following six-step process can be followed:
- Start by measuring out exactly equal parts of the resin and hardener of the quantity you need
- Mix the two parts together carefully and thoroughly
- Add a color coat using a flat leveling tool and remove the air bubbles
- Once the color coat has set (24 hours), add a clear coat on top. Once dry you can sand down the surface and clean it with a wet cloth
- Wait a couple of days for the epoxy to fully cure
- The epoxy resin finish is now ready. Remember not to avoid using abrasive cleaners or scour the surface, only clean epoxy resin countertops with non-abrasive products
Can Epoxy Temperature Limits be Reduced?
Yes, there are factors that may cause a high-temperature epoxy resin to lose some of its heat resistance. When mixing the resin, it is absolutely essential that the correct ratio of hardener to resin is implemented – otherwise, the properties of the resin, including the heat resistance, can be affected. Always follow the mixing instructions carefully to ensure that the balance of resin, hardener and additives are as required by the formula. Too much, or too little of any of these elements will change the composition of the final product, and the epoxy will not perform as designed.
For this reason, any additional additives to the resin, such as color pigments, can also affect the resin’s properties and temperature resistance. If you are using colored resin, it’s best to use the color in the second-to-last layer and add a top coat of clear resin over it for better heat resistance.
High Temperature Epoxy Resin Tips and Tricks
When using the best heat resistant epoxy, following the provided instructions is the first necessary step to success. To make sure the process of using the resin is as smooth as possible, some additional tips and tricks can be followed.
- Always be prepared and have all equipment and tools ready before you start working with high temperature epoxy resin
- Do not waste time when working with resin, as you only have a limited time window before the epoxy starts to dry
- Make sure the work table or surface is at a comfortable height
- Clear any dust off the surface with a cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol before you apply the resin
- When mixing, follow a timer for better accuracy
- Take note of the temperature and humidity of your working environment, as this can affect how the resin works and cures
- When working on a large flat surface, use a leveling tool for an even result
- If using a paintbrush, go for a quality brush that will not lose its bristles. Using a black brush makes it easier to notice and remove any bristles that get stuck in the resin
- Getting rid of bubbles can be done with a toothpick or a heat source like a blowtorch or hot hairdryer
- If using a blowtorch, aim it away from the resin. This stops dust or dirt from being blown onto the resin
- Make sure the resin is covered when curing to avoid dust settling into it
- Adding things like pigments into the resin will change its chemical properties. It’s best to add an extra clear top coat to maintain heat-resistance
- Epoxy resin that is still wet can be cleaned up with acetone
There are many factors to consider when choosing and buying the best heat resistant epoxy. Heat resistant resin is a special product that can be used in a wide range of applications and can enhance all kinds of surfaces. Keep in mind though, that for the best results it is essential that the resin should be mixed in the exact ratio, and that any additives may reduce its effectiveness. Follow this guide when using high-temperature epoxy resin to achieve optimal results.
FAQs
What is the best epoxy for high heat? ›
Permatex®s 500 High Heat Epoxy is the first and only high temperature liquid syringe epoxy! Ideal for surface repairs with high temperatures such as under-hood automotive & home repair. This high temperature epoxy withstands 2X higher temperatures compared to standard epoxies that traditionally breakdown at 250°F.
What temperature can epoxy withstand? ›How much heat can Epoxy withstand? Usually, Epoxy can withstand up to 150 degrees / 300° Fahrenheit for a short period of time. Heat-resistant epoxy can withstand extreme heat of up to 600° Fahrenheit depending on the manufacturer and product.
What is high heat epoxy? ›HighHeat™ is a hand mixable epoxy putty stick specifically formulated to bond and repair materials that will be exposed to high temperatures in automotive and industrial maintenance applications. It cures to a tough, hard bond with little to no shrinkage.
What glue can withstand 1000 degrees? ›ST-1000 thermal glue used to adhere fireplace sealing ropes and tapes and other insulating materials in high temperature places. Because of its durability (can withstand temperature up to 950°C or 1742°F) it can be used in fireplaces, furnaces, boilers, grills, smokehouses, etc.
How much heat can JB Weld epoxy withstand? ›J-B Weld can withstand a constant temperature of 500 °F (260 °C), and the maximum temperature threshold is approximately 600 °F (316 °C) for 10 minutes. J-B Weld can also be used inside a microwave oven, exposed to microwave radiation instead of infrared radiation (heat).
What type of coating is most resistant to high heat? ›Ceramic coatings are the highest heat resistance category readily available to be applied by coating. Rated to temperatures up to 1,800°F, this is the ideal material to use when your project involves extreme heat environments.
What happens if epoxy gets too hot? ›High temperature can also result in severe cracking throughout the thickness of cured epoxy; so much so that if the epoxy were not supported, it could fall away. Shrinkage can introduce significant stresses into the structure the epoxy is attached to.
Is Gorilla epoxy heat resistant? ›Application in cold temperatures will slow the cure time of Gorilla Epoxy, while application in hot temperatures can speed up the cure time. Gorilla Epoxy's cured bond withstands temperatures ranging from -10° to 180°F.
Is there a heat resistant epoxy resin? ›The heat resistant epoxy resin has been formulated for industrial applications but can also be used for larger projects, such as kitchen countertops. The industrial applications include electrical as well as mechanical repairs. The high-temperature epoxy resin is also used in the motor vehicle and aircraft industries.
Does J-B Weld hold up to high heat? ›J-B Weld ExtremeHeat is formulated to allow for repairs to iron, steel and metal in high temperature environments (2400°F / 1300°C). When fully cured, this metallic compound can be drilled, machined or sanded.
How long does high heat epoxy take to dry? ›
CURE AND SET TIME: After kneading the two part formula together by hand, HighHeat takes 1 hour to set and cures in 8 hours.
Is J-B Weld HighHeat food safe? ›Is J-B Weld food-safe? When fully cured, J-B Weld is non-toxic. Our products are not rated food-safe, and we do not recommend consuming the product or using it on areas that directly touch food or beverage.
What glue can withstand 500 degrees? ›Permatex's 500° High Heat Epoxy is the first and only high temperature liquid syringe epoxy. Ideal for surface repairs with high temperatures such as under-hood automotive and home repair. This high temperature epoxy withstands 2X higher temperatures compared to standard epoxies that traditionally breakdown at 250°F.
What glue holds up to high temperatures? ›Heat resistant adhesives include cyanoacrylates, epoxies, acrylics, silicone and urethane. Each type has its own unique set of properties that make it more useful for certain tasks. Heat resistant glue is often used in the following applications: Ovens, stoves and fireplaces.
What glue won't melt with heat? ›If you're looking for a super glue capable of withstanding high heat, we are pleased to present our new option: VA 180 HT Super Glue. As the name suggests; this cyanoacrylate adhesive can withstand temperatures all the way up to 180°C making it the highest temperature rated superglue in our range.
Is J-B Weld as strong as welding? ›J-B Weld, known as "The Original Cold Weld," was developed as an alternative to traditional torch welding. It's designed to be extremely effective in even the harshest environments. Because it's a two-component (or 2k) epoxy system, it uses reactive chemistry to create the strongest bond possible.
What temperature can JB water Weld withstand? ›WaterWeld™ has a set time of 15-25 minutes and sets hard in one hour. WaterWeld™ cures to an off-white color, is rated at a strength of 4370 PSI and will withstand temperatures up to 250ºF.
Can plastic J-B Weld withstand heat? ›How much heat can J-B Weld withstand? Original J-B Weld 2-part epoxy can withstand a constant temperature of 260ºC. The maximum temperature threshold is approximately 316ºC for a short term (10 minutes).
What is the strongest heat resistant material? ›Polybenzimidazole (PBI) has the highest heat and wear resistance, strength, and mechanical property stability of any engineering thermoplastic on the market today.
What material is completely heat resistant? ›Tantalum carbide (TaC) and hafnium carbide (HfC) are refractory ceramics, meaning they are extraordinarily resistant to heat.
What is the best material to protect from heat? ›
What is the best material to prevent heat? Fiberglass is the most common insulation used in modern times. Because of how it is made, by effectively weaving fine strands of glass into an insulation material, fiberglass is able to minimize heat transfer.
What happens if you pour epoxy too thick? ›If your epoxy pour is too thick, the reaction can create too much heat, resulting in a product that does not cure properly with cracks or excessive bubbles. You can pour the next layer after the previous pour has gone through its heat cycle, which is usually around 24 hours.
Why is my epoxy bubbling and smoking? ›You look over and see your epoxy resin smoking or maybe your mixing cup melted. When you mix Part A (resin) and Part B (hardener) together new chemical bonds begin to form causing an epoxy exothermic reaction. Energy is released in the form of heat as the mixture catalyzes.
Can epoxy catch fire while curing? ›The chemical reaction that cures mixed epoxy is exothermic, or heat-generating. If left to cure in a contained mass such as in a mixing pot it can generate enough heat to melt plastic, burn your skin or ignite surrounding combustible materials.
Does Gorilla epoxy withstand heat? ›Application in cold temperatures will slow the cure time of Gorilla Epoxy, while application in hot temperatures can speed up the cure time. Gorilla Epoxy's cured bond withstands temperatures ranging from -10° to 180°F.
Is 2 part epoxy heat resistant? ›Conventional two component epoxy resists up to 80oC (175oF) where single component epoxy resists 180oC (355oF). New two component epoxies provide an alternative process which combines room temperature curing that is followed by heat curing after the epoxy has set.
What is the highest temperature resin? ›High Temp Resin has a heat deflection temperature (HDT) of 238 °C @ 0.45 MPa—the highest among Formlabs resins.
Will epoxy crack in hot weather? ›While epoxy coatings themselves do not crack in extreme heat or cold, concrete does. Epoxy coatings cannot withstand the stresses associated with concrete cracks due to settling, dry shrinkage or other factors.
Which is stronger super glue or epoxy? ›Pro: Epoxy is stronger than glue, so it can be a good choice for projects that require a lot of strength. Pro: Epoxy can create a very strong bond.
Can you put a hot pan on epoxy? ›When done right, epoxy countertops provide a long-lasting and durable surface. Their non-porous nature means they're resistant to moisture. The material is also resistant enough to heat, although you still need to use common sense and not place hot pots and pans on it.
What is the strongest 2 part epoxy? ›
The strongest epoxy glue you can purchase is probably Systemthree's T-88. This two-part adhesive has a tensile strength of 7000 psi. It is well above the average strength for epoxies. T-88 exhibits outstanding adhesion and permanence on a wide variety of materials and is designed to resist adverse conditions.