Assembly Systems for Structural Adhesives

CURING SYSTEMs

Reasons for external heat
- Accelerate chemical reaction
- Improve adhesive characteristics
Application of heat
- Controlled temp. – 200-375F -93-190C
- Confined positioning – to the adhesive area
- Zoned heat control with thermocouple feedback
- Removal of heat before release of assembly
Robust Process with the potential for less hardware failure

HOT AIR IMPINGEMENT (HVHAI )

Low pressure air 2-5 psi
Distribution through stainless steel pipes
- Low inertia electric heater
- Manifold distribution system
- Flow control balancing valve
- Air jets directed at bond lines
Air jets encapsulated in support fixtures

ADVANTAGES of HOT AIR IMPINGEMENT SYSTEM

Air jets give good heat transfer – faster cycle times; direct contact with part not required
Heat from one or two sides
Dissimilar materials can be bonded
Fixtures stay cooler – cut to math data
Assemblies can be cooled in the fixture
Easier to understand/maintain
Little day-to-day variation

ELECTRIC CARTRIDGE HEAT METHOD

Reasons for external heat
- Accelerate chemical reaction
- Improve adhesive characteristics
Application of heat
- Controlled temp. – 200-375F – 93-190C
- Confined positioning – to the adhesive area
- Individual heat block control with thermocouple feedback
Heat remains constant during release of assembly
Improved consistency of part dimensions
Accelerate chemical reaction
Improve adhesive characteristics
Fixtures stay cooler – cut to math data
Assemblies can be cooled in the fixture
Easier to understand/maintain
Little day-to-day variation

STAINLESS STEEL AIR DISTRIBUTION TuBING EMBEDDED in ALUMINUM