Do I need a Pressure Pot for Turning Resin?

Is a pressure pot necessary for turning resin projects?

We strongly recommend using a pressure pot every time you pour a mold. The pressure pot compresses the air bubbles in your resin, making them so small you can’t see them. This helps you get a solid blank with little to no voids—saving time and frustration later when you’re turning.

What pressure pots do you recommend?

At our shop, we use the California Air Tools 365CW Pressure Pot, which is a 5-gallon model and works great for most projects. California Air Tools also makes a 2.5-gallon and a 10-gallon version, so you can choose the size that best fits your molds and workspace. This pot can be pressurized using an air compressor with a hose that has a 1/4" quick connect fitting.

If you choose not to use a pressure pot, you may end up with bubbles or voids in your casting. These can be tricky to repair and may cause issues while turning. Using a pressure pot is the best way to ensure a clean, solid blank every time.

How long do I put my project in the pressure pot for?

This can vary depending on the resin that you use. We use Total Boat tabletop epoxy resin. We pressurize our projects for 4 hours minimum, usually overnight is best. Check cure times with the specific resin you are using.