RT2C Room Temperature Tooling Compound
DESCRIPTION
RT2C is a strong, lightweight, fiber reinforced paste epoxy system for use in preparing sandwich laminated tools and fixtures. The RT2C resin and hardener are color coded to insure a good mix, and both have a smooth, creamy consistency for easy handling and processing. The system has a 1 : 1 ratio that helps to eliminate weighing errors. The mixed viscosity of RT2C is very creamy, and it has good cohesive properties for efficient handling and application to the pattern. The curing exotherm of RT2C is very low, therefore shrinkage is negligible. RT2C is a non-toxic product for improved safety in the workplace. Clean-up is easily accomplished with soap and water. Tools fabricated with RT2C are easy to handle, have a very high strength-to-weight ratio, are dimensionally stable and can be machined easily.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
| RT2C Resin | RT2C Hardener | ASTM Method | |
| Color | Blue | Yellow | Visual |
| Viscosity | Syntactic Paste | Syntactic Paste | D2392 |
| Specific Gravity, gms./cc | .7 | .7 | D1475 |
| Mix Ratio, by Weight | 100 : 100 | PTM&W | |
| Pot Life, 1 lb. Mass @ 77°F | 60 – 90 min. | D2471 |
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Construction Methods:
(1) For general tooling applications, a sandwich construction method is
recommended as follows; Apply 2 layers of PT1105 or PT1154 epoxy surface
coat to the properly prepared pattern and follow with 2 layers of style
7500 type tooling cloth impregnated with PR2114 / PH3016 laminating
system. A ¼ to ½ inch thick layer of RT2C is then applied to the back of
the PR2114 laminate. The RT2C layer is allowed to stand until it is
firm enough to proceed. Finally, an additional 2 ply layer of cloth and
PR2114 is applied to the back of the RT2C.
(2) For limited use tools, and situations where the added strength is
not required, the fiberglass reinforcement described in (1) can be
eliminated. In those instances, the tool would consist of two layers of
surface coat backed up with the RT2C layer.
Mixing and Applying RT2C:
(1) Mixing – RT2C resin and hardener are color coded to give a visual
indication of a uniform, thorough mix. Small quantities of RT2C can be
mixed by hand, but mechanical mixing is much more efficient for larger
batches. Either a dough mixer or stationary paddle 5-gallon pail mixer
will do an excellent job of mixing RT2C. A uniform green color, free of
light or dark streaks indicates complete mixing.
(2) Roll Out The RT2C- A constant and uniform tool thickness is always
desirable in a composite tool, no matter what the construction method.
This approach yields the most consistent performance as well as the most
efficient use of materials. The best way to achieve this with RT2C is
to utilize a “roll-out” board. This is a board 1 to 1.5 feet wide about 3
feet long. Spacers are attached to the surface so that the RT2C can be
rolled out like bread dough to a uniform thickness. First, a layer of
waxed kraft paper or plastic film is placed on the board. Then, a
quantity of mixed RT2C is placed onto the waxed kraft or plastic film,
and a second layer of the paper or film is placed on top of the RT2C. A
large diameter PVC pipe is then used to roll the RT2C to a uniform
thickness, as determined by the thickness of the spacers.
(3) Transfer To The Tool – After the RT2C is rolled out, cut it into
manageable squares of approximately 1 square foot. Then transfer the
RT2C to the tool and lay it onto the wet top layer of the surface coat
or laminating resin. The mixed RT2C has good cohesive qualities and is
not crumbly, so the transfer is easy to do. In placing the squares of
RT2C, be sure to butt the edges together properly, so that there are no
voids in the tool, which would cause weak spots. Also, press the RT2C
firmly into the wet resin layer, so that there are no voids just behind
the tool surface. A “tie coat” is sometimes used between the laminate
and RT2C layer to provide better adhesion to the laminate and minimize
trapped air between the layers. A quantity of mixed RT2C is diluted with
mixed high temperature laminating resin to yield a thick, paintable
consistency, and brushed onto the laminate before the RT2C pieces are
applied. This “tie coat” provides a good bond, and fills any small gaps
between the layers, for better cured performance.
(4) The Backing Laminate – If you are applying a back laminate layer,
the RT2C must be allowed to firm up somewhat before the laminate is
applied. Thirty minutes is usually sufficient, but the actual time
required will depend upon the ambient temperature in the shop. After the
RT2C is firm enough, the top layers of epoxy and fiberglass are applied
and the tool is allowed to cure overnight ( 12 – 24 hours, depending
upon temperature). Then the tool can be pulled, cleaned up and put into
service.
PACKAGING WEIGHTS
| 5-Gallon Pail Kit | |
| RT2C Part A | 20 lb. |
| RT2C Part B | 20 lb. |
| Kit Weight (Kit Volume) | 40 lb. (6.84 gallons) |
| Kit Coverage @ 1/2 Inch Thickness | 21.8 Square Feet |
Inasmuch
as PTM&W Industries, Inc. has no control over the use to which
others may put material, it does not guarantee that the same results as
those described herein will be obtained. The above data was obtained
under laboratory conditions, and to the best of our knowledge is
accurate. This information is presented in good faith to assist the
user in determining whether our products are suitable for his
application. No warranty or representation, however is intended or
made, nor is protection from any law or patent to be inferred, and all
patent rights are reserved. Before using, user shall determine the
suitability of the product for his intended use, and user assumes all
risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith. In no event with
PTM&W Industries, Inc. be liable for incidental or consequential
damages. Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedy in such instances shall be
limited to replacement of the purchase price.
TYPICAL MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
| RT2C A/B | ASTM Method | |
| Color | Green | Visual |
| Mixed Viscosity, @77°F, centipoise | Smooth Cohesive Paste | D2393 |
| Cured Hardness, Shore D | 65 Shore D | D2240 |
| Shrinkage, in./in., 1 lb Mass Mold #2 | Nil | D2566 |
| Exotherm, 1 lb. Mass | 100°F | D2471 |
| Specific Gravity, grams, cc | 0.7 | D1475 |
| Density, lb./cu in | .0253 | D792 |
| Specific Volume, cu. in./lb. | 39.5 | D792 |
| Flexural Strength, psi | 7,000 psi | D790 |
| Flexural Modulus, psi | 608,000 psi | D790 |
| Ultimate Compressive Strength, psi | 6,100 psi | D695 |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion, Range 80°C to 120°C | 3.149 x 10-5 in./in./°F | D696 |
SAFETY & HANDLING
PTM&W epoxy products are made from raw materials carefully chosen to minimize or even eliminate toxic chemicals, and therefore offer the user high performance products with minimum hazard potential when properly used. Generally, the PTM&W epoxy resins and hardeners will present no handling problems if users exercise care to protect the skin and eyes, and if good ventilation is provided in the work areas. However, all epoxy resins and hardeners can be irritating to the skin, and prolonged contact may result in sensitization; and breathing of mist or vapors may cause allergenic respiratory reactions, especially in highly sensitive individuals. As such, avoid contact with eyes and skin, and avoid breathing vapors. Wear protective rubber apron, clothing, gloves, face shield or other items are required to prevent contact with the skin. In case of skin contact, immediately wash with soap and water, followed by a rinse of the area with vinegar, and then a further wash with soap and water. The vinegar will neutralize the hardener and lessen the chances of long term effects. Use goggles, a face shield, safety glasses or other items as required to prevent contact with the eyes. If material gets into the eyes, immediately flush with water for at least 15 minutes and call a physician. Generally, keep the work area as uncluttered and clean as possible, and clean up any minor spills immediately to prevent accidental skin contact at a later time. Keep tools clean and properly stored. Dispose of trash and empty containers properly. Do not use any of these types of products until Material Safety Data Sheets have been read and understood.