Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I coat over Thermobond 3 without first baking the finish to cure?
Yes - In some cases it is possible. After the surface is properly prepared you can simply apply Thermobond 3 to the required area and coat over it. The finish may be rough and require sanding. This method is generally used to fill minor gaps on parts that do not require a highly decorative finish. Testing should always be done prior to attempting to coat over the Thermobond 3 without curing, due to possible problems associated with certain chemistries of powder materials.
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2. Thermobond 3 material seems to be difficult to spread and hard when it's cold. What can be done to make it easier to work with?
Thermobond 3 can appear to be caking when it's cold. To make the product easier to stir and get a smother surface without sanding simply follow these instructions:
Place the opened jar into a common microwave oven for 15-20 second intervals, not to exceed three intervals. Stir product with a stiff instrument after each interval until product becomes smooth and soft. Do not leave the product in the microwave oven longer than 20 seconds at a time as material may begin to cross link and harden.
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3. What if I bake the filler too long or at too high of a temperature?
The filler may blister if the time and/or temperature is too extreme. Generally Thermobond 3 has an over-bake stability similar to that of most powder materials. Longer cure times at lower temperatures are recommended. Please see technical data sheet. Testing is wise whenever the time and/or temperature listed on the technical data sheet is required.
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4. Can I wet sand the filler to prepare the surface for powder coating?
No - Thermobond 3 must remain dry at all times. Wet sanding or solvent exposure will cause the filler to absorb moisture that will be released during the cure process of the powder and may cause out-gassing and blistering.
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5. Will Thermobond 3 air dry over time? Is heat the only way to make Thermobond 3 adhere?
Thermobond 3 will not air dry to a hard substance. Heat is required to cross-link the filler. Thermobond 3 is a one part heat-cured filler that does not require a hardener or catalyst.
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6. What is the best way to store the Thermobond 3?
Thermobond 3 should be kept in the container and away from excessive heat during storage. Remember, this product is thermo-reactive, meaning it will cross link or change when exposed to temperatures above the reactive temperature of the raw materials. Store in a dry place between 65-75 degrees.
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7. Can Thermobond 3 be used to fuse two metal surfaces together - like a weld?
No - This is not a weld substitute.
Although the bond strength of Thermobond 3 is good when applied to a properly prepared substrate. This product should never be used to replace a weld for structural strength. Thermobond 3 may be used to help the looks of a rough and bumpy weld area. The strength of the weld however, is a function of the welding process.
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8. Can Thermobond 3 be applied and cured more than once to the same surface?
Yes, on deep cavities we recommend applying the product no more than 1/4 inch thick at a time, then cure as normal. The next layer can be applied and cured until the desired look is achieved.
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9. Can Thermobond 3 be applied to metal and powder coated before the curing process?
Yes, many customers do this, but we do not recommend it for the best results.
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10. How can I tell if I have over-cured Thermobond 3?
The first sign of over-curing is: the putty will turn yellow, as it continues to over-cure, it will turn black (similar to toast in a toaster).
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11. Does Thermobond 3 shrink?
Yes, but only slightly. When applying the putty make sure you apply a small amount of over-build for sanding purposes.
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12. Will Thermobond 3 outgas?
No, this product will not outgas. However, when Thermobond 3 is applied to castings or other porous metals, gas trapped in the metal can outgas and affect the Thermobond 3 curing process.
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