Hot and Cold Weather Grouting

Hot Weather Grouting

As the grout temperature approaches 30°C (85°F) the working time of the grout will be approximately one half of the working time at 20°C (70°F). At 30°C (85°F) and above, placement may become very difficult and steps to control the temperature of the grout and its immediate environment will become necessary. The baseplate\sole plate and foundation should be shaded from sunlight to bring the base plate and foundation temperature as close to 20°C (70°F) as possible. The aggregate should be placed in a cool, dry environment for at least 24 hours. The unmixed unopened cans of epoxy resin and hardener may have their temperature lowered by being placed in a tub of ice water. In very hot weather it may become necessary to schedule grout placement for the coolest part of the day or night.

Cold Weather Grouting

At temperatures below 15°C (60°F) the viscosity of the epoxy binder can be very thick, making for a very stiff grout. In this temperature range, the working and curing time will be extended. The strength gain will be slower than at 20°C (70°F). In periods of cold weather it may be necessary to pre-warm the epoxy grout components, baseplate/sole plate, and the foundation. The resin and hardener, while still in their containers, may be warmed by storing in a warm protected room or by immersing in warm water (water temperature not greater than 40°C (100°F). The temperature of the resin and hardener should not be allowed to rise above 30°C (85°F). The aggregate should be stored in a warm area for at least 24 hours, allowing the aggregate to achieve a temperature as close to 20°C (70°F) as possible. The baseplate/sole plate and foundation at the time of grouting should be brought to a temperature between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (70°F). This may be achieved by warming with electrical heating blankets or by tenting the area and heating, using infrared heaters or dry, forced air, free of petroleum pollutants.

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