Ray, this ain't Chris; but I have experience with epoxies.
When vacuuming do you put a collar around whatever you're vacuuming? The epoxy will increase by at least 3X before collapsing. I use wide masking tape that's about 2.5 ".
After the first collapse it won't rise as high again.
Kevin
I just received this new casting. Like the bulino casting, this is a terrific piece to look at and study. Such a neat work of art. Dollars well spent and I encourage you to do the same!
I tried some( Dry grpahite Film Lubricant in an arisol can), sprayed it on like spray paint, let it dry for a few minutes, wiped off the excess with a little W-D-40 on a soft paper towel and wow, did that ever work good. It sticks in there really good but can be washed out with the same if need be.