Thermal properties of epoxy: G/flex

G/Flex is a well-known and recognized epoxy adhesive, and for some it is essential to know its thermal properties, although for most it does not play a significant role. Understanding these properties can help knifemakers produce more robust and durable knives or how to take a glued handle apart again.

Important Features:

Here is the information you would find in the technical data sheet:

1. Heat Displacement Temperature (53°C) : G/Flex begins to deform at 53°C under load. This means that if a knife with a G/Flex handle is exposed to temperatures above this, some deformation of the adhesive may occur, but the adhesive will still hold.

2. Glass transition temperature (Tg) : This is the temperature at which the epoxy adhesive changes its mechanical state. At 59°C, G/Flex begins to change from hard and brittle to soft and tough. The transition is complete at 68°C . At this point, the adhesive is completely in its soft and tough state.

Importance for the use of the knife:

Although many knives should not be exposed to such temperatures, it can be useful to be aware of this limit, for example to avoid use in washing machines.

For knife makers, it is important to be informed about the properties of the material they use, so that they can use the best. It can be an advantage to inform particularly interested customers about the thermal limitations of epoxy glues so that they do not end up in dishwashers on hot programs. This applies to most epoxy glues used in knife handles, and G/flex is considered the best in the world.

G/Flex epoxy glue is an excellent choice for knife handles, thanks to its strength and flexibility. Whether you are a knife maker or an enthusiast, I hope this nerd lesson has given you some more knowledge to go on. Good luck with your crafting!