Structural adhesives now offer a new solution to replace traditional mechanical assembly. These kinds of adhesives are user-friendly and allow for the permanent assembly of similar and dissimilar substrates.
Master Bond formulates a wide variety of versatile adhesive systems used to bond multiple types of plastics such as:
- ABS
- Nylon
- PEEK
- Phenolics
- Polycarbonate
- Polyester
- Polyetherimide
- Polyphenylsulfone
- Kevlar
- Acrylics
Adhesives offer distinct advantages over mechanical fasteners and are utilized as an alternative in numerous manufacturing operations. Crucial benefits include:
- Uniform stress distribution
- Ideal for bonding dissimilar substrates
- Barely increase assembly weight
- Eliminate the need to drill holes
- Require no extra components – do not warrant different styles of nuts, bolts, etc.
- Liquid tight
- Gas proof
- Can join surfaces with diverse shapes, configuration and thicknesses
- No change in part geometry
- Create barrier against dust, dirt, sand, and other abrasive minerals
- High dynamic strength
- Durability and toughness
- Tolerance compensation – fill gaps or adhere surfaces with tight fits
- Aesthetically clean joints – invisible within assembly
- Shorten assembly time
- Easy, accurate dispensing manually or automatically
- Reduce waste
- Flexible design possibilities
- Protection from corrosion
- Ability to resist flex and vibration
- Minimal increase in weight of assembly
- Easy automation
- Minimal shrinkage upon cure
- Excellent cohesive strength
- Superior chemical and heat resistance
Key Advantages of Structural Adhesive Bonding vs. Welding
Structural epoxy adhesives, as an alternative to traditional welding techniques, eliminate the risk of electrical hazards and bring a host of significant advantages. These adhesives simplify processing, allowing for application on thinner substrates even in areas where access is limited. Unlike welding, structural adhesives enable bonding of diverse materials, including metals, most plastics, and composites, ensuring an even distribution of stress across the joint. This feature is particularly beneficial in reducing the concentration of stress points that can lead to material fatigue. Furthermore, adhesives provide dual functionality – they can bond and seal simultaneously, making them ideal for joining irregular or complex surfaces. This multifaceted capability, combined with their safety and versatility, positions structural adhesives as a superior choice in many engineering and manufacturing contexts.
