West System Epoxy: cleaning the pumps?

[nigelmercier]

I have some West System Epoxy that is a couple of years old, I believe it should be OK. The tins have the West pumps in them. Should I just use them as is, or clean the pumps out first? If the latter, what can I use to clean them?

 

[Bobobolinsky]

First test check for cure

 

[PCUK]

Soak the pumps in Acetone.

 

[boaterbaz]

Hot soapy water works!

 

[Tradewinds]

Hot soapy water works!

Yup - easy peasy.

Pumps come apart for washing. Dry & re-assemble.

 

[William_H]

Methylated spirits is the best for cleaninmg mixed epoxy so presumably alsoi just the stuff for cleaning pumps. As said try the epoxy. Quite likely OK as is good luck olewill

 

[ningcompoop]

Twice I've tried this, and twice I've ended up buying new pumps. Tried hot soapy water (think this is recomended for the hardner, but would have to check), acetone, meths, white vinegar all work well too but on both occasions ended up with one pump that wouldn't refill consistently. I do use syringes for measuring very small amounts (bit messy) and I have used scales but found them very frustrating, I do find pumps ideal for projects when you're going to be working with epoxy on and off for a few days (weeks.... ). Good luck!

 

[Blueboatman]

Always check the calibration after reassembly ( and I use hot soapy water btw).. Pump x into one container and xx etc into an identical container until they 'level out' at the prescribed ratios...
The spouts gum up too and may need ( another use for) a coathanger to scrape em clear..

 

[rhumlady]

Twice I've tried this, and twice I've ended up buying new pumps. Tried hot soapy water (think this is recomended for the hardner, but would have to check), acetone, meths, white vinegar all work well too but on both occasions ended up with one pump that wouldn't refill consistently. I do use syringes for measuring very small amounts (bit messy) and I have used scales but found them very frustrating, I do find pumps ideal for projects when you're going to be working with epoxy on and off for a few days (weeks.... ). Good luck!

I use acetone once I have stripped the pump. I use the pump as an easy way to dispense into a mixing container sitting on digital scales. Much more accurate than the pumps alone especially on larger amounts.