Epofer Accelerator is a solvent-free, low-viscosity curing accelerator specifically designed for epoxy systems. It reduces gel and demould times by adding between 1 and 5% by weight to the total A+B mixture, without modifying the resin-to-hardener ratio. It is compatible with laminating and casting systems, although precise dosing is required to avoid compromising final mechanical properties.
Technical specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Usage ratio |
1–5% by weight over total A+B mixture |
| Colour |
Amber |
| Density at 25 °C |
0.98 g/cm³ |
| Viscosity at 25 °C |
120–150 cps |
| Flash point |
140 °C (closed cup) |
| Boiling point |
250 °C |
| Solvents |
Solvent-free |
| Fillers |
Filler-free |
What it is used for
Epofer Accelerator is designed to shorten the curing time of epoxy resins when working conditions or production pace require it. It is especially useful in environments with low ambient temperatures, where natural curing takes too long, or when you need to speed up the work cycle without modifying the base formulation of the system.
- Accelerating cure in fibreglass or carbon fibre laminates with Epofer Laminate 401
- Reducing gel time in epoxy castings with Epofer EX401+E432
- Workshop use during cold seasons when natural curing is too slow
- Series production with moulds requiring short demould cycles
- Structural repairs where intervention time is limited
- Use alongside Masilla Epóxica 610 to speed up setting in repair work
How to use it
- Prepare the epoxy resin and hardener mixture in the ratios specified by the system manufacturer (A+B ratio).
- Once the resin and hardener are mixed, add Epofer Accelerator at between 1 and 5% by weight of the total mixture. Always start at the lowest percentage (1%) and adjust based on results.
- Mix thoroughly for 2–3 minutes, ensuring the accelerator is evenly distributed.
- Apply the mixture as normal: laminating, casting or spatula application depending on the chosen process.
- Keep the work area ventilated. Since curing is faster, work with smaller batches to avoid premature gelation in the container.
- Once the part has cured, you can apply PolarShine 10 for the final finish if the surface requires it.
Important notice: Excess accelerator in casting systems can reduce the final hardness of the part. In laminates, it increases rigidity, but exceeding 5% can cause excessive reactivity, temperature rise during curing (exotherm) and microcracks. Always use the minimum effective dose. The product has a flash point of 140 °C; store away from heat sources and open flames.
Usage tips
Adjust the dose according to the application
For laminates, doses of 2–3% are usually sufficient to achieve a clear reduction in curing time without compromising flexibility. For castings, keep within the 1–2% range maximum: the heat generated in a confined resin mass can cause deformation or even cracking if used in excess. Always run a small test before applying to the final part.
Ambient temperature and dosage
At temperatures above 20 °C curing is already reasonably fast: a 1% dose will provide sufficient acceleration. Below 15 °C you can go up to 3–4%, but monitor the exotherm carefully. Never use the accelerator as a substitute for heat in systems that require post-cure at elevated temperature to reach their maximum properties.
Amber colour and effect on finish
Epofer Accelerator has an amber colour, which may slightly alter the tone of transparent or very light-coloured resins. If the aesthetic appearance is critical, carry out a visual test before applying to the final part. In fibreglass laminates or pigmented castings the effect is usually negligible.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add the accelerator directly to the resin without mixing with the hardener first?
No. Epofer Accelerator must always be added to the already prepared mixture of resin and hardener (A+B), never separately into either of the two components. Adding it directly to component A or B can upset the reaction balance and give unpredictable results.
How much does it reduce curing time?
It depends on the base epoxy system, the temperature and the dose used. As a reference, at 2–3% you can expect a reduction in gel time of between 30 and 50% compared to unaided curing at room temperature (20–25 °C). Exact times should always be verified with a test under the actual conditions of your workshop.
Is it compatible with any epoxy resin?
Epofer Accelerator is formulated for epoxy systems in general. It is compatible with the laminating and casting systems in the Feroca catalogue, such as Epofer Laminate 401 or Epofer EX401+E432. If you are working with an epoxy system from another source, always carry out a preliminary test to verify compatibility.
Does the accelerator affect final mechanical properties?
Yes, if used in excess. In laminates, it increases rigidity. In castings, an excessively high percentage can reduce the final hardness of the part. It is therefore essential not to exceed 5% and to always adjust the dose to the minimum needed to achieve the desired curing time.
Can it be used outdoors or in parts that will be exposed to heat?
The accelerator itself does not limit outdoor use, but the final properties of the part depend on the epoxy system chosen. If the part will operate at elevated temperatures, make sure the base system can withstand those conditions and, if the process requires it, apply the post-cure recommended by the system manufacturer.
Is there a risk of dangerous exothermic reaction?
With correct doses (1–5%) and reasonable working masses, the additional exotherm is manageable. The risk increases when high accelerator doses are combined with large-volume castings or very thick sections. In those cases, work with small batches and do not accumulate large masses of mixture in the container.
How should it be stored correctly?
Store Epofer Accelerator in its original tightly closed container, in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and open flames (flash point 140 °C). Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Under these conditions, the product retains its properties for the period indicated on the container.
Is a release agent still needed when curing is accelerated?
Yes. Using an accelerator does not eliminate the need for a release agent. In fact, with faster curing it is even more important to have the mould properly prepared before pouring the mixture, as the available working time is shorter.
How much product do I need?Calculate the exact amount before buying and avoid wasting material.
Go to the calculator →
