Yes, for most Araldite applications, you mix the two parts and apply the mixed adhesive to both surfaces being joined to ensure a strong bond, though always check your specific product's instructions as some might differ slightly, but a thin, even coat on both sides is standard practice for a strong epoxy. Prepare surfaces by cleaning and roughening, then apply, press together, and clamp until set, wiping off excess glue immediately, according to the manufacturer's guide.
Epoxy is an excellent choice for this type of project, for which I would use slow hardener (there really is no need to rush). Both surfaces need to be coated. Squeeze-out is essential to be certain of having no voids, but needs to be cleaned up immediately.
During assembly, apply light pressure to the joint with tape or clamps until set around 20 minutes. Allow 2 hours rest for the adhesive to fully gain strength before rough handling or sanding. Dispense equal amounts from the two tubes (only dispense what you are going to use within 5 minutes, as it will go hard).
Araldite Ultra Clear is a fast-setting two-part epoxy adhesive that dries crystal clear making it ideal for areas where an invisible bond is required.
What materials does Araldite® work with? Our adhesives are compatible with almost all materials, including wood, metal, masonry, glass, ceramics, dry concrete, chipboard, leather, cardboard, fabric, rubber and most plastics (except polyethylene, polypropylene, Teflon®).
Epoxy will not stick to:
Teflon. Polyethylene. Polypropylene. Nylon.
Principal Uses: For use in a variety of marine and industrial construction works and repair: adhesive&sealer for wood and panel joints, putty for wood and metal substrates, bonding similar and dissimilar substrates(ex. metal on concrete), and many more.
Quickly mix the resin and hardener until completely blended (1-2 minutes). Add a small amount of the glue to the items you are bonding, carefully assemble them, and press them together firmly. Set and cure times vary for different products, so check the packaging or manufacturer's instructions for details.
Araldite Standard gives twice the bond strength compared to any other epoxy adhesive in the market, and has the highest coverage, thus being cost-effective.
Heat & Chemical Resistant - Araldite Adhesive Standard offers high durability and permanent bonding 5.
Soft or sticky epoxy resin can be caused by a variety of issues, including improper mixing, high humidity, and high temperatures. Once passed the curing time, if you observe that your resin remains sticky, it is very likely that you did not follow strictly the ratio or mixing process indicated.
The best way to help remove it is to heat it, above 70°C Araldite will start to soften making it easier to scrape away. It will still come down to using mechanical removal to get it off. If the Araldite has not cured, ie is still liquid you can wipe it off using Acetone or sometimes Methylated Spirits also works.
Common errors include inaccurate measuring, improper mixing, lack of temperature control, and maintaining an unclean workspace. These can result in issues like stickiness or cloudy resin. In particular, using epoxy resin on wood requires careful preparation (cleaning, dusting, drying, etc.)
As others have said, if you don't sand, you risk the first layer being too smooth to bond to. Your sanding marks will vanish between layers, don't worry. DO dust thoroughly. It can delaminate during the sanding/planing process.
In other words, to apply an additional layer of epoxy to a previous one:
While there are several methods to apply epoxy, using a brush is often considered for its simplicity and accessibility.
Epoxy is typically used for heavier materials, such as metal or glass. Super Glue, on the other hand, is a one-part adhesive that sets quickly. It is not as strong as epoxy, but it is more convenient. Super Glue is typically used for lighter materials like plastic or paper.
Epoxy does not stick well to materials with low surface energy or smooth, non-porous surfaces, primarily silicone, Teflon, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), PVC, and vinyl, as well as waxy surfaces like wax paper and some oily or painted surfaces. These materials repel epoxy, making them ideal for molds and release agents, though extreme heat can sometimes make epoxy stick to silicone.
Acetone or Paint Thinner: a powerful solvent that can significantly reduce viscosity. It can also weaken the integrity of the cured epoxy if used in excess. Remember to add no more than 10% of this to your epoxy mix, otherwise your epoxy will not cure properly.
Failure to scrape the sides and bottom of your mixing container can leave unmixed components, which will lead to areas that don't cure. It's not just about stirring—but about ensuring complete integration. Mix until the epoxy is fully blended and uniform, typically for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the product.
Weakness #1: Strong Solvents
Epoxy can be weakened by strong solvents. Substances such as pure acetone, potent alcohol (typically denatured), and lacquer thinners are all examples of this. These substances will gradually dissolve an epoxy resin surface, weakening it and reverting it to a liquid.
Isopropyl Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol, Acetone, Lacquer Thinner. Stronger solvents like isopropyl alcohol, denatured alcohol, acetone, or lacquer thinner will remove epoxy much more quickly.