When is Smooth-On too old?

[purple heart]

Yet another Smooth-On question here.  Looking for any advice willing to be shared......So, I had a quart kit that I had not been into since a year ago and I got into it today to a suprise of a smoky/foggy looking sheen ...a very light and subtle coating on both parts A and B.  Almost unnoticeable if I had not been in the light just right.  The cans were sealed well and I assume it is from effects of air in the cans from back when I was in them last.  Seemed to mix in well and go away but was wondering if it was ok to finish using it off.  Have about another bows worth in there and I hate to throw it out but;...... I dont need a tear jerker experience out of the deal.  

Any Veteran experience out there with the Golden Rule of how to define when Smooth-On is ready to throw out??

Thanks a bunch, Kye

[Bert Frelink]

Kye,
Don't throw it out it is perfectly fine, go ahead and use it as per usual.
Take care.
Bert.

[purple heart]

Thank's for the info Bert.  The thought of throwin' the stuff out almost put a tear in my eye....I'll get it used up then.  Take Care up there!!  Kye

[Buemaker]

I just used a unit that was two years old and it was just fine. It had not been opened and had been stored in a cool dry room. I think it would be a good idea to store the cans upside down if kept for a long time, then no air can get to the glue. Bue--.

[2treks]

Oxygen is the problem for alot of glues and finishes. You can get a product called "Bloxegen" that is sprayed into the can/bottle before sealing. This will displace the oxygen and HELP keep you product fresher,longer.
An oldtimer at the Hardware store I grew up working in told me to exhale your breath into a can before sealing for a longer period of time. The c02 in our breath will also displace the oxygen.
And remember Erics trick to 'squeeze" out the extra air if you can. Storing upside down as Bue suggests, works as well. Be sure the can stays sealed though, I ended up with some sealer all over my bench before. Still not sure how that happened.    

CTT

[purple heart]

Thanks for the great insight guy's....Good ideas!!

Kye.