Glue+hot box

[K. Mogensen]

Hey guys,

I'm getting ready to build an all bamboo bow pretty soon and had a question, are there any glues that you can use that don't need a hot box for full strength? I'm getting the kit from Rudderbows.com and they recommend Bowgrip 100 (because they sell it). But they say that to get the full strength and prevent delamination in higher temperatures, you must use a hot box. Not trying to sound lazy, was just wondering.

Thanks!

[Dano]

If you have good gluing surfaces, you can use Titebond II or III, with no heat. With poor surfaces you can use Urac 185 with at least 70 degrees temp, the higher the temp the faster is cures. Never used Bowgrip, so I can't say anything about it.

[kiltedcelt]

EA 40 epoxy, also called by its brand name, Smooth On, will cure at room temperature. EA 40 will take 24 hours to cure at average 70+ room temps, however according to the data sheet on it, curing it at 150F for 6 hours just allows you to work on the next step of your bow making quicker. According to the data sheet on EA 40 you can cure it at room temperature then cure it 150F for 4 hours which it says "will increase physical properties and performance". Not sure what that means exactly. I've read a few complaints about Bowgrip, but never about EA 40 or Urac. Of course complaints about Bowgrip could've been the result of poor performance due to improper mixing.

[K. Mogensen]

Thanks guys. Sounds like I have some more options...

[K. Mogensen]

One more question, do you think any of these would delam in 100* heat? That's around the average summer temp. here. Thanks!

[penrosefred]

dano, I am very thick headed, Please explane good  glueing services and poor glueing services

[Dano]

I don't think so, most glues need more than 150 to delam, just can't leave a bow strung in a car, that is for sure.

[K. Mogensen]

So with TB I can use smooth surfaces right? And that'll work with bamboo? I know Urac does and that needs a rougher surface correct? I do still plan on bringing it inside so the temps will be around 70-80*.

Thanks for all the help.

[K. Mogensen]

[penrosefred]

Dano, I meant surfaces, not services. Sorry