Working Temperature
Temperature affects every stage of the Plastiform process: application, polymerization, extraction, and measurement. Understanding these effects gives you room for improvisation in workshops that are hotter or colder than the standard 20°C laboratory environment.
We recommend following the 20°C ambient temperature guideline for every impression whenever possible.
However, as we know, it is realistically impossible for most users to achieve this, so this article will examine the effects of temperature changes in detail.
Optimal Range
The optimal working temperature is 20°C, standard metrology laboratory temperature. All published specifications assume this temperature.
The functional range is 15°C to 25°C. Within this band, performance is predictable and specifications are met without adjustment.
Effects on Application
Below 15°C: Polymerization slows significantly. The impression may takes multiple.
Above 25°C: Polymerization accelerates. Working time is shorter. Mix and apply quickly. This is especially problematic with manual putty products because you will need to achieve a complete mix within 10 seconds.
Polymerization speed is directly tied to temperature. The nominal time (written on product labels & technical sheet) is valid only at 20°C.
| Temperature | Effect on Polymerization Time |
|---|---|
| Above 25°C | Faster than nominal. Working time is reduced. |
| 20°C | Nominal time applies. |
| 15°C to 20°C | Slower than nominal. Allow extra time before extraction. |
| 10°C to 15°C | Significantly slower. Verify cure with a fingernail test before extracting. |
| Below 10°C | Very slow. Verify cure with a fingernail test before extracting and wait 10-15 extra minutes to be sure. |
LP (Long Polymerization) products follow the same trend but start from a longer base time. This is also true for XL Products.
We recommend never attempting an extraction without testing polymerization is completed with your fingernails.
Operating Outside the Functional Range
Performance outside 15°C to 25°C is not guaranteed to meet published specifications. The user is responsible for validating precision and stability under non standard conditions.
If you must work at extreme temperatures:
- Allow the product to reach workshop temperature before mixing. Cold product straight from storage might behaves unexpectedly.
- Adjust polymerization time expectations. Do not rely on the label time at temperatures far from 20°C.
- Document environmental conditions in your inspection records.
