What is a common application mistake when using a chopper gun?

Using a chopper gun effectively requires precision and understanding of several application parameters. Each of the mentioned mistakes can lead to significant issues in the end product.

Overlapping materials too much can create areas of excessive thickness, which may cause problems such as cracking or delamination as those areas harden at different rates compared to properly applied sections.

Using too much catalyst can also lead to a host of issues, such as a faster cure time, which may not allow the material to be applied or manipulated adequately before it sets. This can create an uneven finish or weak spots in the composite, compromising its integrity.

An incorrect chop/resin ratio is critical as well; if the ratio is not optimal, it can affect the mechanical properties of the finished product. For instance, too much resin can make the composite heavy and weaker, while too little resin might not saturate the fibers sufficiently, leading to reduced strength and durability.

All of these mistakes highlight the importance of careful measurement and application when working with a chopper gun, making it clear that each is a common application mistake that can negatively impact the quality of the final composite material.