Epoxies and How to Use Small Quantities Without Wasting

by: FOC FAQ

EPOXY: Ask FOC Ask FOC

Published: January 11, 2016

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QUESTION: We are getting epoxy 353nd from you in a package of 2gr. Is it the minimum package? We are concerned about wasting material because we are using 353nd only for MTP assembly. Do you have any suggestions to reduce waste?

ANSWER:

It is not possible to make a smaller package of 353ND. 353ND has a mix ratio of 10:1. For a 2 gram package the 1 part of hardener has to be measured to +/- 0.01 grams, to maintain this mix ratio. To do better than this is not practical in the repackaging business.

I can suggest to mix the 2 gram packet, use what you need immediately, then as quickly as possible put the rest of the mixed 353 into a syringe that can be used for dispensing later. Freeze the syringe in at least a -20°C freezer (-40°C is preferred, if you have one). Depending on how cold you are able to store the syringe, you will be able to prolong the pot life of the 353 by days, weeks, or months (in the case of -40°C). When you need a little more 353, remove the syringe from the freezer, let warm up briefly, and hopefully dispense another small quantity. You can refreeze and keep using, as long as the 353 doesn’t cure in the syringe.

Answered by AskFOC Technical Team January 11, 2016

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FOC FAQ Fiber Optic Center has a team of technical experts and marketing strategists with decades of years in the field. This team contributes to the fiber, cable and specialty industries coverage through news, alerts, reports and general media information.

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Fiber Optic Center, Inc., (FOC), is an international leader in distributing fiber optic components, equipment and supplies and has been helping customers make the best cable assemblies in the world for over two decades. Several areas of specialization and expertise, in which they are the industry leader, make them the preferred choice for many of the world’s fiber professionals. In these key technology areas, FOC is "at least as technical as the manufacturer" about the products they sell. Striving to "make the business part easy," they offer outstanding and personal customer service, low or no minimum purchase order values, and from-stock delivery on industry-leading products and technology. FOC is the industry connection to the most innovative optical products, technologies and technical experts who integrate their manufacturing knowledge and vast experience into customers' worldwide operations. @FiberOpticCntr

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