A great deal of research was done our side into the question of what epoxy products brand to utilise in the construction of the commemorative 50th anniversary Hartley TS21 trailer sailer.
What became evident was that there is indeed a tangible difference in the quality and performance of various epoxy brands. They are certainly not all identical.
The quality and performance of the epoxy component is an absolute mission-critical factor and so it will perhaps be of no surprise to those professionals within the boat building industry to learn that our choice of epoxy product is WEST SYSTEM®, available from ATL composites here in Australia.
West System has an impeccable reputation within the professional boat building industry not only here in Australia but also world wide. From what I have learnt they certainly seem to be the premier epoxy products brand, bar none.
West System have an extensive range of products and a multitude of different size resin and hardener kits ensures that even if the job is a small one, you will find the right type and size product for your requirements.
Critically important - get ratios right
One of the nice things about this product is the total ease by which you can be assured of the perfect ratio of resin to hardener through the use of their dispensing pumps. One pump resin to one pump hardener, their dispensing pumps actually work - it just doesn't get any easier and safer than this.
So when ordering your West System kit, I suggest make sure you consider getting the dispensing pumps too. I highly recommend them.
First time starting out - no problem
West System epoxy products are available via an extensive Australian wide dealer network. However, one of the other big pluses is this product's manufacturer, ATL composites, appear very serious about ensuring potential users of the West System product range get the right advice.
So, if you are planning on building a wooden boat and are a little unsure of what quantity or type of West System product you will need, give ATL composites a call directly. That's exactly what I did and I found them not only extremely helpful but genuinely very interested in our project. For the home boat builder especially this is going to be a huge help in getting things right to begin with.
West System how-to movie guides
The below movies are available freely on youtube.com and are included here to provide a little insight into how easy it can be to achieve the perfect results using West System.
The Chosen Epoxy Brand
One of the nice things about this product is the total ease by which you can be assured of the perfect ratio of resin to hardener through the use of their dispensing pumps. One pump resin to one pump hardener, their dispensing pumps actually work - it just doesn't get any easier and safer than this.
