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Tech Tip 17 Identifying Particles in An Epoxy Adhesive Using Hegman Gauge (Grind Gauge) Analysis

The Hegman gauge is a tool used to analyze epoxy adhesives and identify different particle types within the epoxy matrix. It involves drawing a thin film of the epoxy down a steel block with varying depth channels to observe any non-uniformities. There are four main particle types that can be identified: uniform fine dispersion, particle size determination, crystallization, and agglomeration. The Hegman gauge is a quality assurance tool that allows differentiation of potential problems in the epoxy formulation.

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72 views2 pages

Tech Tip 17 Identifying Particles in An Epoxy Adhesive Using Hegman Gauge (Grind Gauge) Analysis

The Hegman gauge is a tool used to analyze epoxy adhesives and identify different particle types within the epoxy matrix. It involves drawing a thin film of the epoxy down a steel block with varying depth channels to observe any non-uniformities. There are four main particle types that can be identified: uniform fine dispersion, particle size determination, crystallization, and agglomeration. The Hegman gauge is a quality assurance tool that allows differentiation of potential problems in the epoxy formulation.

Uploaded by

Cao Long
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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TECH TIP 17

Identifying Particles in an Epoxy Adhesive


Using Hegman Gauge (Grind Gauge) Analysis

For wet particle analysis, a Hegman Gauge (sometimes referred to as a grind


WHAT
gauge) is frequently used to determine the fineness of the grind and to analyze
Hegman gauge helps to different types of particles within an epoxy matrix. The test involves a flat, stain-
identify different potential
types of particles within an less steel block with two top channels, decreasing slightly in depth from one end
epoxy to the other. The channel depth begins at 100μm and decreases to zero, with a
corresponding scale on either side.

A typical Hegman Gauge measures approximately 170mm long by 65mm wide,


WHY
with a height of 15mm. A small amount of the adhesive (Part A, Part B or Part
To identify particle charac- A + B) is placed at the end of the steel block containing the deepest channel or
teristics when subjected to
groove. Using a stainless steel scraper, the material is slowly drawn down while
Hegman Gauge analysis
maintaining uniform pressure along the entire length of the block.

The resultant thin coating or film on the block is then visually inspected for any
lumps or non-uniformites on the surface of the coating. Any visual observations
can also be read using the scale along either side of the block. This scale can be
read in Hegman units (dimensionless), micrometers or mils.

During a Hegman Gauge analysis, there are four


main categories of particles that can be displayed:

• Uniform Fine Dispersion


• Particle Size Determination
• Crystallization
• Agglomeration

www.epotek.com
Examples of Hegman Gauge Results
The below figures display actual draw downs using Hegman Gauge analysis.

UNIFORM FINE PARTICLE SIZE


CRYSTALLIZATION AGGLOMERATION
DISPERSION DETERMINATION

All particles show a Forms uniform, unbroken Appears as a lumpy Has the appearance
flawless appearance lines from the initial draw texture throughout the of intermittent breaks
throughout the draw to the corresponding entire draw down. within the draw down;
down with proper particle size determination, not corresponding to
dispersion. continuing throughout any size scale.
entire draw down.

Good Results Bad/Problematic Results


CONCLUSION

A Hegman Gauge is an excellent quality assurance tool to quickly evaluate and iden-
tify particles within an epoxy. It allows for differentiating any potential problems such
as: crystallization, agglomeration, as well as determining varying particle sizes.

EPOXY TECHNOLOGY INC. 978-667-3805 www.epotek.com


14 Fortune Drive • Billerica, MA 01821 [email protected] © Epoxy Technology Inc.

DISCLAIMER: Data presented is provided only to be used as a guide. Properties listed are typical, average values, based on tests believed to be accurate. It is recommended that users perform a thorough evaluation for any application based on their specific require-
A M E R I D I A N A D H E S I V E S G R O U P C O M PA N Y ments. Epoxy Technology makes no warranties (expressed or implied) and assumes no responsibility in connection with the use or inability to use these products. Please refer to the product data sheets and safety data sheets (SDS) for more detailed information.

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