Acrylic adhesives are part of the structural adhesive family, making them a great multi-purpose and versatile bonding choice. They can bond a wide range of substrates and are available in two-part catalyst cure or one-part UV and heat cure formulations.

Read on to find out 6 common uses of acrylic adhesives and the reasons why they work so well in each application.

1. Sign Making 

Acrylic adhesives can be used to bond thinner materials, such as prepared or unprepared metals and engineered plastics, which traditional mechanical fastening methods could not. This gives sign makers much more design freedom as well as reducing manufacturing costs. The adhesives clear formulation and ability to gap fill means that it is virtually undetectable on translucent substrates, such as plastic point of display signs. The weather resistance and anti-corrosion properties of acrylic adhesives allow them to also be used to create signs designed for outdoor display purposes.

We recommend: 3M ScotchWeld Acrylic Adhesive DP804

2. Sporting Goods

 

The manufacturing of sporting goods such as golf clubs or goal frames involves the bonding of robust materials such as aluminium and steel. These bonds are placed under extreme stress and rigorous wear and tear when in use. Acrylic adhesives provide the joints with high levels of impact resistance which ensures they are long-lasting and durable. They can bond the robust materials with ease, as well as joining any smaller, complex parts to the goods without any restrictions. Furthermore, there is no additional finishing work required when using acrylic adhesives meaning a faster turnaround and a polished aesthetic.

We recommend: Permabond TA4200

3. Automotive Manufacturing

The possibilities and uses for structural adhesives within the automotive sector are truly extensive. Acrylic adhesives are being implemented in this area as a replacement for traditional bonding methods such as welts, rivets and brazing. Acrylic adhesives work exceptionally well in the bonding of aluminium, steel and composite materials. They are used for the bonding of exterior vehicle components such as door panels and frame work. These components are subject to high impact and stress daily, however acrylic adhesives provide a durable and flexible join which can withstand these pressures. They also improve aesthetics and reduce manufacturing costs making them a highly popular bonding method with vehicle manufacturers.

We recommend: Lord 403E/17 10:1 Cartridge

4. Aerospace Manufacturing

 

Similarly, the aerospace industry uses acrylic adhesives for the bonding of exterior components. Acrylic adhesives have excellent environmental resistance properties, meaning they can withstand solvents, moisture, salt spray, oils and weathering. They also have brilliant resistance to UV exposure and anti-corrosion properties, making them an ideal choice for the aerospace industry. Many Lord Corporation acrylic adhesives are aerospace approved and have been specifically formulated to provide the highest impact & peel strengths available. The Lord range of aerospace adhesives are specially formulated to excel in both high and low temperature conditions.

We recommend: Lord 410/19B 

 

5. Window Mount Bonding & Sealing

The construction industry frequently opts for acrylic adhesives as their chosen bonding method thanks to their high performance and durability. One of the most common uses within this sector is the joining and sealing of window mounts. They can be used to fill large gaps between substrates with ease, whilst also increasing long term wind and UV resistance. These durable bonds can withstand other environmental factors and can also be used to join external metal frame works where required.

 We recommend: Lord 204

 

6. Magnet Bonding

Acrylic adhesives are used to bond magnets in a range of industries, with some of the most prominent being those within electrical motors and speakers. Acrylic adhesives play a crucial role in the manufacturing of electrical motors as they provide an effective method of bonding magnets, shafts, housings and rotors together. They are also used for bonding ferrites and wire tacking. Acrylic adhesives can withstand the high operating temperatures which exist within these devices, as well as providing excellent impact resistance. They excel in this field as they do not require any heating ovens and are quick curing.

We recommend: Henkel Loctite AA F241 Toughened Acrylic

Shop our range of acrylic adhesives now.

 

 

Additional links:

At Ellsworth Adhesives, we supply a wide range of acrylic adhesives from leading brands Lord, 3M Henkel Loctite and Permabond. View our entire range of acrylic adhesives here.

Want to know more about structural adhesives? Check out our Quick Guide to Structural Adhesives here.

Unsure if acrylic adhesives are right for you? Our Glue Doctor is here to answer any technical questions you may have. Simply fill out our enquiry form.

Instant adhesives, otherwise known as cyanoacrylates or “super glues” are the most commonly used adhesive in the industry. Instant adhesives are considered to be general purpose as they suit a wide range of diverse applications and adhere to a host of different substrates. This adhesive type cures when exposed to the moisture in the air, and provide a durable, high strength bond.

In this post, we’ve highlighted 8 reasons why you should make instant adhesives your chosen bonding method.

1. Versatile Bonding 

Instant adhesives provide excellent adhesion to a wide variety of substrates, from metal and wood to porcelain and ceramics. This means that instant adhesives can be used not just for industry use, but also to repair everyday items such as those found around the home. With huge advancements in the market, newer variations of instant glues have been produced to work with traditionally difficult to bond plastics such as polypropylene.

 

We Recommend: Henkel Loctite 401 Instant Adhesive

2. Economical Choice

 

The bonding of smaller or more obscure items can be made easy with the use of instant adhesives. Only a very small amount of glue is required to achieve a high level of polymerisation and in-turn, an extremely high strength bond. This makes cyanoacrylate an economical and cost-effective adhesive choice as the best bonds are produced using a minimal amount of adhesive.

We Recommend: Henkel Loctite 414 Instant Adhesive

3. Rapid Cure Times

Cure times vary between different compositions of instant adhesives, typically ranging from just a few seconds up to few minutes. This super-fast cure makes them highly effective in demanding applications. As very little adhesive is required to join the substrates, the adhesive achieves handling strength in just seconds. Instant adhesives are available in a variety of different viscosities and cure speeds meaning they suit a vast array of applications.

We recommend: Henkel Loctite 4062 Low Viscosity, Fast Cure Adhesive

4. Safe for Medical Use

 

Instant adhesives adhere well to other substrates too, most uniquely human skin. The medical industry uses this versatility to their advantage and have implemented the medical-grade glue as a quick and effective way of temporarily sealing wounds. Furthermore, instant glues are frequently used in the production of disposable medical devices where quick production times and reduced manufacturing costs are critical.

We recommend: Henkel Loctite 4013 Medical Instant Adhesive

 

5. Easy to Implement

There is no need for mixing or measuring instant adhesives as they are supplied as a one part, ready to use material. This makes them ideal for high speed production processes as they require no clamps or additional equipment prior to use, saving both space and money.

 We recommend: Permabond 102

 

6. Aesthetically Pleasing

As instant adhesives require a very minimal amount to be deposited onto the substrate for a high strength bond to form, there is little risk of mess or overspill if used correctly. The adhesive cures clear which leaves minimal to no trace between substrates. This makes cyanoacrylates particularly well suited for more intricate applications.

We recommend: Henkel Loctite 416 Adhesive

 

7. Suitable for Porous Surfaces

Whilst low viscosity instant adhesives have a runny, liquid consistency, many are manufactured with a very high, gel-like viscosity which can be used for gap filling. Thanks to their thicker formulation, cyanoacrylate gels prevent adhesive flow even on vertical surfaces and can be used to bond porous substrates such as leather or paper.

We recommend: Henkel Loctite 3090 Instant Adhesive Gel 

 

 

8. Flexible Bonds

 

Flexible instant adhesives are available to be used in the production of difficult to bond materials such as rubbers and plastics which often compress the finished joint. Flexible instant adhesives produce a flexible bond line as they are formulated with rubber additives, allowing movement in the joint and between the substrates without any damage.

We recommend: Henkel Loctite 4850 Flexible Instant Adhesive

Shop our full range of Instant Adhesives

 

 

Additional links:

Want to learn more about the history and chemical composition of instant adhesives? Check out our “In-Depth Guide to Cyanoacrylate Adhesives” post.

At Ellsworth Adhesives, we supply a wide range of instant adhesives from leading brands Henkel Loctite and Permabond. View our entire range of cyanoacrylate adhesives here.

Unsure if instant adhesives are right for you? Our Glue Doctor is available to answer any technical questions you may have regarding instant adhesives. Simply fill out our enquiry form.

Adhesives provide a versatile bonding method and are used industry-wide. Whilst the bond is usually strong and durable, unfortunately bond failures can occasionally happen.

There are two main types of bond failure which commonly occur. When the adhesive separates or pulls away from one or both substrates, but does not tear, this is known as an adhesive failure. In contrast, a cohesive failure occurs when the adhesive physically separates or splits by itself.

Read on to find out our 5 top tips to avoid frustrating bond failures in future applications… 

 

1. Choose the right adhesive for your substrate

Selecting the correct adhesive is the most crucial stage to ensuring a strong, long lasting bond. Different adhesives adhere better to different substrates, therefore choosing one which is incompatible may lead to the adhesive to improperly cure. It is also important to consider the environmental and external conditions the bond will be exposed to. This includes the temperature, chemical exposure and impact or vibration.

Unsure if your chosen adhesive is correct for your application? Our Ellsworth Glue Doctor is always here to help.

 

 

2. Preparation is key!

Care should be taken to ensure the substrates are ready for bonding. If a substance such as oil, grease or dirt is present it can lead to bond failure. Effective surface preparation is key to ensure optimum bonding conditions and long-term adhesion.

There are various methods and products available for surface preparation such as:

• Cleaners and greasers,
• Primers,
• Flux removers (Defluxers)
• Accelerators & activators

 

View our entire range of surface preparation products here.

 

 

 

3. Carefully check your application requirements.

Adhesives require different actions in order for the curing process to occur. This includes factors such as cure time, cure temperature and the amount of pressure applied during the process. It is important to check each of these requirements prior to applying to the substrate and ensure you have the time and equipment required.

Furthermore, the adhesive should be applied in a consistent manner across the entire bond line to ensure an even and high strength bond. If there is too little adhesive applied, this can cause cracking or separation of the surfaces. Similarly, if too much adhesive is applied then this can take too long to set and cure causing a weak bond and an untidy finish to the substrate.

 

4. Get Your Ratio Right!

Two component adhesives provide a strong and extremely reliable bond; however, they do often require manual mixing and preparation before they can be applied. An inaccurate mix ratio can affect the chemical properties of the adhesive and lead to a weak or failed bond. Furthermore, if the mixing process takes too long then the adhesive can become too viscous and should not be applied. Ensuring that time is taken to follow the mixing and measuring method carefully is essential with a two-component adhesive.

Unsure or struggling to maintain the exact ratio required? Our Pre-Mixed & Frozen resin service can help. Learn More.

 

5. Don’t Stress!

Like selecting the correct adhesive for your substrate, consideration should be taken regarding the level of stress the finished bond will be faced with. Different adhesives have different levels of flexibility which can withstand stress better than others. If an adhesive cannot hold up against the joint stress, failure can occur. Adhesives such as flexible cyanoacrylates allow for a good level of movement within the joint and between substrates which can withstand this stress. Our other top picks include Robnor ResinLab PX628FF and Permabond UV670.

 

 

Additional Links:

Want to know more about surface preparation? Check out our “Guide to Surface Preparation” post for a more in-depth overview of each method.

If you have any other queries regarding bond failures or selecting the correct product for your application, please don’t hesitate to ask our Ellsworth Glue Doctor who can answer all your technical questions. Simply fill out our enquiry form.