Is Double Mixing Really That Important?

by Ethan Schneider

Too often it happens that dealers who have been in the field for while, forget why double mixing two component sealers in a separate container is so important.

Any CTI products that have both an A and B component need to be double mixed to insure proper mixture. This does not mean simply mixing the product twice in the same bucket or container. If you mix the components twice in the same container you will still end up having some A product stuck on the walls of the container that do not have any B mixed in. If any of this improperly mixed product ends up on your job there is a good chance that some portion of the job won’t cure properly. If you follow the directions in this article you should be able to avoid any mixing mishaps.

Remember always have your materials organized and double check your cans to make sure you are mixing the right components. Even the best of us can make mistakes.

The procedure for mixing two component products is as follows. First start mixing the A in it’s original container then slowly add the B component and mix for the specified amount of time as stated on the product spec sheet, usually about 2 or 3 minutes.
(Next is the most important part.)

Take the mixture from the original container and pour it in to a separate clean container and mix it again usually for about 1 minute. (check product specs for exact mix times).

Some products such as 5000 Binder or Aquathane 6000 have induction times. This means they need to sit for period of time to allow cross-linking of the product to occur prior to application. Again, mix A and B in the original container first for the recommended amount of time. Then pour the mixed product in to a clean container and allow the mixture to sit and induce for the recommended period of time according to the product specs. Finally, mix the product again usually for about 1 minute prior to application.

Note: ( Rapid Armor, Super Seal 210, and Enviroprime do not have induction times)

If you follow this procedure with all CTI two component products it is unlikely that you ever have an issue due to improper mixing. As always call the CTI tech department if you have any questions.