At Rapid Electronics, we understand that proper preparation is key to unlocking the full potential of your adhesives.
While a premium adhesive is a valuable component, its efficacy hinges on proper surface preparation before application. Surfaces contaminated with rust, water, oil, dirt, or dust compromise bonding quality.
To optimise bonding, degreasing, cleaning, and priming become essential. These actions enhance substrate surface energy, providing a larger contact area for the adhesive. Cleaners and degreasers counteract the negative impact of contaminants, ensuring a robust bond.
Cleaning and degreasing are crucial, especially considering potential contaminants from machining, handling, manufacturing, and the surrounding environment. Even a thin oil film can reduce adhesive performance significantly. Utilising cleaners like isopropyl alcohol or degreasing solvents, such as Loctite 7063, removes debris effectively.
Roughening the substrate through abrasion with sandpaper or a wire brush eliminates heavy deposits and creates a textured surface. This texture, with increased peaks and valleys, provides the adhesive with a better grip, enhancing adhesive properties. Degreasing is recommended before and after the abrasion process.
For challenging materials like polyethene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and thermoplastic rubber, applying a polyolefin primer such as Loctite 770 can increase surface energy, promoting more effective bonding. Application methods include spraying, brushing, or dipping at ambient temperature.
Accelerating curing time on inactive surfaces is achievable by applying an activator. For instance, Loctite 7452 can be used with cyanoacrylate adhesives, ensuring rapid fixturing. This activator can be applied pre or post-adhesion.
By prioritising thorough surface preparation, we enhance the adhesive's performance and reliability, ensuring optimal bonding strength.
For those interested in requesting a sample or seeking more information, feel free to contact us at
sales@rapidonline.com.
