3M Scotch-Weld DP270 Clear is a two-part epoxy potting compound that cures at room temperature to a rigid, optically clear solid. It is specifically formulated to be an excellent electrical insulator, making it ideal for encapsulating components where visual inspection is necessary. While it can resist moderate temperatures, its primary purpose is electrical insulation and environmental protection, unlike its black counterpart which is designed to actively conduct heat. The long 60-minute work life and low viscosity ensure a bubble-free, void-free encapsulation.
Popular Applications & Uses
- Potting and encapsulating electronic components where visual inspection of parts, serial numbers, or indicator lights is required.
- Creating a "glob top" coating over chips on a circuit board.
- Sealing LED lighting fixtures and displays.
- Providing a clear, high-voltage insulating barrier over connections and terminals.
- Any application requiring a clear, non-yellowing, protective, and insulating layer.
Industries that Commonly Use It
- Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing
- LED Lighting and Displays
- Optics and Photonics
- Telecommunications
- Automotive Electronics
Special and Unique Features
- Cures to an optically clear, non-yellowing finish for aesthetic applications and visual inspection.
- Excellent electrical insulation properties with high dielectric strength.
- Long 60-minute work life allows for complete flow and bubble release in complex assemblies.
- Low viscosity ensures easy pouring and complete, void-free encapsulation.
- Cures to a hard, durable solid with excellent resistance to moisture and harsh environments.
Key Properties
- Base: Epoxy
- Color: Clear
- Mix Ratio: 1:1 by volume
- Work Life: 60-70 minutes at 73 F (23 C)
- Dielectric Strength: 1150 V/mil
- Thermal Conductivity: ~0.18 W/m-K (Note: an insulator, not a conductor)
- Hardness: 80-85 Shore D
Materials Bonded
- Primarily used as a potting/encapsulating material, but adheres well to:
- FR-4 circuit boards
- Metals (Aluminum, Copper)
- Plastics (ABS, PC)
- Glass and Ceramics
Cure Information
- Mix Ratio: 1:1 by volume
- Work Life (Pot Life): 60-70 minutes
- Time to Handling Strength: Approximately 2-4 hours at room temperature.
- Full Cure: 7 days at room temperature.
- Cure can be significantly accelerated with heat (e.g., 2 hours at 150 F / 65 C).
Known backups / known substitutes for this product
- 3M Scotch-Weld DP270 Black (for thermally conductive applications)
- Loctite E-30CL Hysol
- MG Chemicals 832C Clear Potting Compound
Comparison Note
- The primary difference between the two 3M DP270 versions is their function. DP270 Clear is chosen for its optical clarity and electrical insulation, allowing you to see the components inside. DP270 Black is an opaque, filled epoxy chosen for its ability to conduct heat away from components. They are generally not interchangeable. Loctite E-30CL and MG Chemicals 832C are also clear potting compounds used for similar see-through encapsulation applications.
