When it comes to resin, there are two main types: UV resin and epoxy resin. Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.
In this blog post, we will compare and contrast UV resin and epoxy resin, so that you can make an informed decision about which type of resin is best for your project.
Which is the best resin to use?
This is a question that I get asked a lot, and there is no simple answer. Both UV resin and epoxy resin have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it really depends on what you’re looking for in a resin.
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each type of resin:
Table of Contents
- Which is the best resin to use?
- Is UV resin or epoxy resin better for jewelry?
- Does all epoxy resin cure with UV light?
- Which is better resin or epoxy?
- What does UV resin do?
- Which UV resin is best?
- Does UV resin turn yellow?
- Do you need to wear a mask when using UV resin?
- Do you need to shake UV resin?
- Can you use epoxy resin and UV resin together?
- Can a black light cure resin?
- Can you cure UV resin with LED lamp?
UV Resin:
Pros:
- Cures quickly (under 30 minutes) with UV light, no mixing required
Cons:
- More expensive than epoxy resin, can be difficult to work with if you don’t have the right tools/equipment
Epoxy Resin:
Pros:
- Less expensive than UV resin, easier to work with since it has a longer curing time
Cons:
- Takes longer to cure (usually around 24 hours), requires mixing of two parts before use.
So, which is the best resin for you? That really depends on your needs and preferences.
If you need a quick turnaround time, then UV resin is the way to go. However, if you’re on a budget or if you’re new to working with resin, then epoxy resin might be a better option.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of resin will work best for your project!
Is UV resin or epoxy resin better for jewelry?
There is no clear answer as to which resin is better for jewelry making. UV resin has some advantages over epoxy resin, such as being faster to cure and having a higher resistance to yellowing.
However, epoxy resin is more durable than UV resin and can be used for a wider range of applications.
Ultimately, the choice between these two resins will come down to the specific needs of the project.
Does all epoxy resin cure with UV light?
No, not all epoxy resin cures with UV light. Some types of epoxy resin require heat in order to cure properly.
Which is better resin or epoxy?
UV resin is best for small, intricate pieces that need to be cured quickly. Epoxy is better for larger pieces or when more time is needed to cure the piece.
Epoxy also has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than UV resin, making it stronger overall. However, epoxy can yellow over time while UV resin will not.
Ultimately, which type of resin you choose depends on your project and needs.
What does UV resin do?
UV resin is a type of clear polymer that cures when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. This means that it can be used to create hard, durable objects without the need for any heat or chemicals.
This makes UV resin ideal for creating jewelry, models, and other small objects. It can also be used for coating surfaces or filling in gaps and cracks.
Which UV resin is best?
When it comes to UV resin, there are a few different types on the market. So which one is best for your project?
One type of UV resin is called cyanoacrylate or “super glue.” This type of resin cures quickly and is ideal for small projects.
However, it can be brittle and doesn’t always produce a strong bond.
Another popular type of UV resin is epoxy resin. Epoxy resin is thicker than cyanoacrylate and has a longer curing time.
But it’s also more durable and produces a stronger bond. It’s perfect for larger projects.
Does UV resin turn yellow?
One of the main concerns people have with UV resin is that it will turn yellow over time.
This yellowing is a result of exposure to UV light, and it can happen with any type of resin.
However, there are some resins that are more resistant to yellowing than others.
Epoxy resin is one of those types of resin. It is much more resistant to yellowing than UV resin.
Do you need to wear a mask when using UV resin?
No, you do not need to wear a mask when using UV resin. However, it is always a good idea to protect your lungs from any kind of fumes, so it is recommended that you wear a mask when working with any type of resin.
Do you need to shake UV resin?
UV resin does not require shaking like epoxy resin. This is because the UV curing agent is already mixed in with the resin.
Epoxy resin, on the other hand, has a hardener that needs to be shaken in order to mix it correctly with the resin.
If this step isn’t done properly, your final product will likely be weaker and less durable.
Another difference between these two types of resins is their curing time. UV cured resins typically cure much faster than epoxy ones.
So if you need a quick turnaround for your project, UV resin would be a better choice.
However, epoxy resins are more resistant to heat and chemical spills, making them a better option for projects that will be exposed to these kinds of hazards.
Can you use epoxy resin and UV resin together?
Yes, you can use epoxy resin and UV resin together. The two resins have different properties that can be complementary.
For example, if you are looking for a strong and clear finish, then using epoxy resin and UV resin together can be a good option.
If you are looking to add some color or vibrancy to your project, then using UV resin may be the better choice.
Can a black light cure resin?
Yes! A black light can cure most types of UV resin in just a few seconds. This makes it a great option for quick repairs or small projects. Keep in mind that not all black lights are created equal.
Some may be too weak to effectively cure resin, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.
You can also ask an expert at your local craft store for advice on which black light is best for curing resin.
Can you cure UV resin with LED lamp?
Yes, you can cure UV resin with an LED lamp. UV resin is cured by exposure to ultraviolet light and LED lamps emit ultraviolet light.
However, not all LED lamps are powerful enough to cure UV resin.
If you’re not sure whether your LED lamp is powerful enough, you can test it by curing a small amount of resin.
If the resin cures hard and doesn’t remain tacky, then your LED lamp is powerful enough.
If your LED lamp isn’t powerful enough to cure UV resin, you can try using a stronger UV light source, such as a halogen bulb or mercury vapor lamp. You can also try increasing the curing time.