Epoxy Filler - History, Tips and Advantages

Epoxy Filler
Epoxy filler is a general term used to describe filler used to fill in cracks, dents and surface imperfections on metal and non- metal surface. This product should be strong, durable, weather and heat resistant. It should apply easily and come in a single component instead of mixing a resin and hardener or catalyst. There are many uses for this type of filler and in many industries as well.

They needed metal filler that was one part or single component, easy to apply, dries fast and looks like the metallic look of the casting. Metal fabricators, welders, auto body shops, ornamental metal workers, hobbyists and do it yourselfers were soon introduced to this unique and ready-to-use metal repair and patching compound.

Liquid Painting/Coating
In the past, these metal parts were liquid coated with a latex, alkyd, solvent based or industrial liquid paint and coating to protect metal surfaces against rust, corrosion, chemical attack, weathering or immersion. Liquid coating was the only way to paint and protect these surfaces and the paint was usually solvent based applied through an airless or hvlp paint system. When there was a need to apply a filler to repair these dents, voids, rough welds and surface imperfections, two part epoxies made with a resin and a hardener with pigments, metal or plastic fillers could be used to mask and hide these voids and simply liquid painted over.

New Type of Coating
While liquid painting was common, regulations forced paint manufacturers to re formulate paint and coatings to contain less solvent which would also lead to the development or powder coating. This is a type of coating which is applied as a dry powder. The powder does not need solvent to keep the filler and binder parts in a liquid form. This type of paint is applied with an electrostatic gun and is then baked/cured under heat usually in an industrial oven which helps it flow and form a skin. This new development is mainly used for coating of metals, appliances, extrusions made from aluminum, auto and bike parts.