What is the difference between gel time and curing time for chemical anchors?
Gel time and curing time are two critical parameters that define how long a chemical anchor remains workable and when it reaches full load-bearing capacity. Understanding these timeframes ensures safe, reliable, and efficient installations. These times vary depending on the resin type and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.
➤ What is Gel Time?
Gel time, also known as working time, is the period during which the mixed resin remains fluid and workable after being dispensed from the cartridge. This is the time window when anchor rods or rebars must be inserted into the drilled hole.
• If the rebar is inserted after the gel time has passed, the resin may have already begun to set, which can lead to incomplete bonding or installation failure.
• Gel time shortens in higher temperatures and extends in cooler conditions.
• Always prepare anchor holes before dispensing the resin to avoid time loss during installation.
➤ What is Curing Time?
Curing time is the period required for the resin to fully harden and achieve its design load-bearing capacity. During this period, no load should be applied to the anchor.
• Most curing times range from 30 minutes to 24 hours, depending on the resin type and ambient temperature.
• Higher temperatures accelerate curing, while lower temperatures slow it down.
• Applying load before full cure may cause bond failure or compromise structural safety.
➤ Why Does It Matter?
1. Improved Accuracy - Knowing the gel time helps you avoid early setting and resin waste, especially in deep holes or large-volume applications.
2. Enhanced Safety - Ensuring proper curing prevents early loading errors, preserving the bond strength and structural reliability.
3. Temperature Sensitivity - For example, at 35°C, the working time of some fast-cure adhesives can be less than 3 minutes, while at 10°C it may extend to over 10 minutes.
4. Better Product Selection - Fast-curing anchors are ideal for cold weather or time-sensitive projects, while longer gel time products allow more flexible installation in hot or large-scale jobs.
Knowing how gel and curing times behave under different site conditions is key to durable anchoring. Always refer to the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for specific timing charts at various temperatures. For projects in extreme climates, choosing the right product or even adjusting the formulation can make all the difference. If you need help to choose the right chemical anchor, just contact our team today.
Good Use Chemical Anchor Curing Time
GU-100
| Temperature (°C) | Gelling | Full Curing |
| 0~5 | 8 hr. | |
| 5~10 | 40 min. | 7 hr. |
| 10~20 | 30 min. | 6 hr. |
| 20~30 | 8 min. | 3 hr. |
| 30~40 | 3 min. | 2 hr. |
| Please make pull off test for at least 24 hours after full cured. | ||
GU-500
| Temperature (°C) | Gelling | Full Curing |
| 5~10 | 1-2 hr. | 90 - 100 hr. |
| 10~20 | 30-60 min. | 30 - 60 hr. |
| 20~30 | 14-30 min. | 14 - 22 hr. |
| 30~40 | 10-20 min. | 6 - 12 hr. |
| Please make pull off test for at least 24 hours after full cured. | ||
GU-500SD
| Temperature (°C) | Gelling | Full Curing |
| 5~9 | 2 hr. | 90 hr. |
| 10~14 | 90 min. | 64 hr. |
| 15~19 | 45 min. | 28 hr. |
| 20~29 | 30 min. | 18 hr. |
| 30~39 | 20 min. | 7 hr. |
| 40 | 12 min. | 5 hr. |
| Please make pull off test for at least 24 hours after full cured. | ||
GU-600
| Temperature (°C) | Gelling | Full Curing |
| 0~5 | 6 hr. | |
| 5~10 | 30 min. | 5 hr. |
| 10~20 | 20 min. | 4 hr. |
| 20~30 | 10 min. | 2 hr. |
| 30~40 | 5 min. | 40 min. |
| Please make pull off test for at least 24 hours after full cured. | ||
GU-2000
| Temperature (°C) | Gelling | Full Curing |
| 5 | 90 min. | 8 hr. |
| 10 | 40 min. | 4 hr. |
| 20 | 18 min. | 1.5 hr. |
| 30 | 9 min. | 1 hr. |
| 40 | 6 min. | 1 hr. |
| Please make pull off test for at least 24 hours after full cured. | ||
- Chemical Anchor Showcase
380ml Fast curing polyester chemical anchor for solid and hollow structures
GU-100 380ml
The 380ml polyester co-axial cartridge chemical anchor, often referred to as a 400ml or 410ml...
Details
400ml Epoxy chemical anchor designed for use in tropical weather conditions
GU-500 400ml 3:1
This 400ml epoxy chemical anchor, in a 3:1 injectable cartridge, is designed for rebar connections...
Details
ETA approved injection epoxy chemical anchor designed for dowel bar retrofitting
GU-500SD 400ml 3:1
GU-500SD pure epoxy chemical anchor has successfully received the European Technical Assessment...
Details
360ml High bond strength epoxy acrylate chemical anchor for vertical and horizontal fixing
GU-600 360ml
The 360ml epoxy acrylate chemical anchor is a top-selling option for general fixations and reinforcement...
Details
380ml Injection vinylester chemical anchor with excellent chemical resistance for semi-hollow materials
GU-2000 380ml
The 380ml fast hardening vinylester chemical anchor is an ideal solution for fixing hollow...
Details
