Below is some more information which will help you decide if your model needs epoxy

  • Coating your model with epoxy will add strength to the model. A special epoxy formula permeates through the plaster.
  • There is an additional charge for epoxy and the cost depends on the square inches of surface area.
  • The material (gloves, brush, mixing dowel, cup) is provided by the RPC at extra cost and applied by the student in the paint booth.
  • The model needs to cure for 24 hours for safe handling after epoxy infusion.
  • But it is not always necessary to apply epoxy to the part. If the part is strong enough to hold itself then epoxy infiltration is not essential.
  • If the part is just for display and its strength is not as important also if it is has a very short life cycle then epoxy is not all that necessary.
  • Sometimes primer will serve the purpose.
  • If the part has a long cycle and supports other parts then it is a good idea to infuse epoxy to increase its strength.
  • If for example there are two parts which mate, it is always a good idea to epoxy them first and then glue them together