PU glue in stead of epoxy

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pep
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Joined: Sun Oct 28, 2012 5:44 pm
Type of boat I like: canoe

PU glue in stead of epoxy

Post by pep »

I have a background in blades for wind turbines made of glass fiber reinforced epoxy. For gluing structural PU is commonly used. The advantage is fast curing down to a few hours. Do you have any experience with PU as glue for panels?
Phishtech
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Joined: Thu Oct 15, 2009 4:57 pm
Type of boat I like: Laker Okwata TV 15-29

Re: PU glue in stead of epoxy

Post by Phishtech »

What exactly is PU ??
pep
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Joined: Sun Oct 28, 2012 5:44 pm
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Re: PU glue in stead of epoxy

Post by pep »

PU is polyurethane
jem
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Re: PU glue in stead of epoxy

Post by jem »

For butt blocking it would be ok on a paddle boat but not as strong as epoxy.

But unless you can find a way to thicken it up for seam filleting, it won't be very useful. Thickened epoxy not only bonds the panels and fills any gaps but also, when applied correctly, provides a smooth transition between angled panels so the fiberglass can properly conform. PU can't, to my knowledge, be shaped and formed in this manner. Some PU glue expand as they cure.

So you'll need epoxy. And long as you are using epoxy, might as well get the best bond you can and skip the PU glue.

The alternative is "traditional" plywood-on-frame designs which I don't have but am considering adding a couple in the future.
-Matt. Designer.
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