Post Takeaways

The second post will help installers and users of Chockfast products to understand the effects that cold temperatures have on the physical properties of non-shrink epoxy grouts (also known as non-shrink construction grout) and chocks when exposed to cold ambient temperatures.

Outline

• Introduction
• How Cold Temperatures Effect Installation Properties
  • Viscosity
  • Working Time
  • Initial Cure Time
• How Cold Temperatures Effects In-Service Properties
  • Brittleness
  • Min Service Temperature
  • Contraction – Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
• Implications for the Installer
• Final Thoughts on Temperature

Cold Weather Grouting: Installing Chockfast Epoxy Grout for Critical Machinery

Part 2 of the Cold Weather Installation Series

When installing critical industrial machinery, precision and durability are paramount. In cold climates, however, even the most reliable materials – like Chockfast epoxy grout – can behave differently. Cold weather grouting presents unique challenges that, if not addressed, can compromise the integrity of your installation and long-term machinery performance.

In this second installment of our three-part series on industrial machinery maintenance in cold weather, we’ll explore how low temperatures affect the installation and performance of Chockfast epoxy grouts or Chockfast epoxy chocks including Chockfast Orange. Whether you’re an installer, engineer, or equipment designer, understanding these cold-weather dynamics is essential to applying grouting best practices and ensuring successful outcomes.

How Cold Temperatures Affect Installation Properties

Cold weather can significantly alter the behavior of epoxy-based grouting solutions during installation. Here’s what you need to watch for:

Viscosity

As temperatures drop, epoxy chocks and grouts become thicker and harder to mix and pour. Increased viscosity can lead to poor flow, air entrapment, and incomplete cavity filling. To maintain optimal performance:

• Refer to the Recommended Application Temperatures in the Technical Data Sheet.
• Store materials in a warm environment before use.
• Use heated enclosures or warming blankets on-site.
• Mix thoroughly and monitor flow characteristics.

Working Time

Cold conditions extend the working time of heavy machinery adhesives, increasing the window for proper placement. This may lead to surprises on-site. To mitigate:

• Monitor ambient and material temperatures.
• Adjust your workflow and team coordination.
• Use temperature-controlled environments when possible.

Initial Cure Time

Low temperatures slow the chemical reaction that cures epoxy grout. This means longer waiting times before the chock can be loaded or forms can be removed. Premature loading can compromise alignment and structural integrity. Best practices include:

• Using heat blankets or tenting to maintain curing temperatures.
• Scheduling installations around expected weather conditions.
• Consulting manufacturer guidelines for cure time adjustments.

How Cold Temperatures Affect In-Service Properties

Once installed, epoxy grout for cold climates must perform reliably under harsh conditions. Here’s how cold weather impacts long-term performance:

Brittleness

Epoxy compounds become more brittle in low temperatures, reducing their ability to absorb shock and vibration. This is especially critical in dynamic machinery environments. To negative effects from brittleness, be sure to:

• Verify performance data from the manufacturer.
• Limit impacts to the foundation structure as much as possible, especially at very cold temperatures.

Contraction – Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

Temperature fluctuations cause materials to expand and contract. This is compared using the Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion (CTE), which is a measurement of the amount a material will expand or contract when it is heated up or cooled down.  The following is a listing of the CTE’s for common materials in a dynamic foundation system of a as published by their respective manufacturers: