February 25, 2019 Structural Adhesives are revolutionizing the way in which manufactures view bonding methods. In addition to cost, time, weight and aesthetic advantages, structural adhesives are successfully competing with alternate fastening solutions in strength, longevity and their ability to join a wide range of substrates that are not compatible with welds or mechanical fastener applications. For many manufacturing applications, the ideal bonding method may no longer be welds, rivets or mechanical fasteners, but adhesives. Additional Benefits of Structural Adhesives Cost – Adhesives produce costs savings both directly and indirectly. Direct costs savings are achieved when structural adhesives can be used in place of high-end, coated mechanical fasteners. There is indirect cost savings when ordering, shipping and stocking costs are considered. One structural adhesive may be able to replace several different styles of nuts, bolts, rivets, washers, etc. Time– Substituting adhesives can save you time whether bonding material through welding or threaded fasteners and rivets. When welding, the application requires timely setup, inspections and touch ups. Many times, welding leaves excess material or creates discoloration that requires filing and polishing. Attaching items via fasteners and rivets is also time consuming because often times several attachments points are required and each attachment point requires time consuming prepping and finishing like pre-drilling holes or sealing. By contrast, structural adhesives are applied across the substrate in one step. Weight – While adhesives may not always provide a significant weight reduction over fasteners often times there is weight that be cut as result of how adhesives interact with the substrates. Because adhesives distribute a bond’s stress over the entire surface of a component, manufacturers do not have to worry about inconsistent performance due to stress levels at bond points. This may allow manufacturers to reduce the thickness and amount of material needed in the application. Aesthetic– We have all seen those long rust streaks that result from mechanical fasteners being exposed to water or obvious welding lumps and protruding bolts and rivets erupting from layers of paint. In addition to being eyesores, the use of mechanical fasteners and welds create holes and cavities that trap dirt and grim that will eventually damage the product. Adhesives, in contrast, are out of sight substrate bonders that seal against moisture and allow for beautiful smooth exteriors. Your Source for Structural Adhesives Class C Components is your complete source for structural adhesives partnering with leading manufacturers like Henkel-Loctite, 3M and Vibra-Tite. If you are interested in learning more about using structural adhesives in your next bonding application call us today at 763.535.0400 or email us at classc@classccomponents.com Looking to get a quote for your next job? Check out our Quick Quote form here.
