Smooth-On glue has a one year shelf life???

[ken denton]

Does Smooth-On have a one year shelf life? My buddy makes a few bows and some glue that was given to him which was dated 2005. He had a bow come apart after about 250 shots and could not figure out what was wrong until he called the Mfg. and they told him one year shelf life for glueing up bows. Any one know if this is correct?     Also, sometimes the can is not dated but is on the box which sometimes is not shipped with the can. I am wondering if guys who make a bow every once in a while let the cans(two parts I believe) set for over a year and then use it( and get a broken bow )? My friend said it took several shots before it delamited. Thanks for any input. Ken

[TNstickn]

Yes, I recently purchased some smooth on because of the same concerns. If the air conditioner is not on in my shop this time of year it will get to an easy 110- 115 when its 95 or so outside!On the smooth on site, (googled it for manufactuer specs.) it does state that you should use it as soon as possible. I have 2 quarts Im gonna throw away and store all my glues in the house. To much work and money goes into producing a bow, to skimp on the glue. It is the most important component of a glass bow. A delam could be dangerous, dont want someone to loose an eye over 30 bucks. The unopened cans I had sitting for 15-18 months in my shop had started to seperate. I compared them to the stuff I just got and there is a difference in how it looks and I think the resin part didnt smell as strong.In the trash it goes! Instead of quarts, this time I just bought a pint. Best of luck -Greg

[Fletcher]

I always stored mine in the frige.

[Java Man]

I'd also recommend buying the smallest container you can if you don't use that much.  And throw it away later if its questionable.  

TNstickin hit it right on the head.

[ken denton]

I understand some major bowers are using " TDR1100" glue which is 3 times stronger and 3 times more expensive.I wonder what is the shelf life and do you mix it like Smooth-On? Where do you buy it? Ken