WHAT ADHESIVE WORKS BEST FOR YOUR APPLICATION?
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Maribel Contreras
Engineering Sales Representative
Ellsworth Adhesives
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Confused by the different types of glue? Don't worry, Ellsworth Adhesives is here to help! Picking the right glue can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you'll be a bonding pro in no time.
Key Factors for Strong and Lasting Bonds Here's what Ellsworth Adhesives says about getting the best results from your glue:
1. How You Put Things Together Matters (Joint Design): The way you join your materials (think puzzle pieces) greatly affects how strong the glue will be. Ellsworth Adhesives recommends designing these joins specifically for glue, to avoid pulling or peeling forces.
2. Know Your Substrate: Not all glues work on all substrates! Some are great for different materials stuck together, while others are better for specific things like plastic or metal. For some materials, you might need to clean or prepare the surface before gluing for a stronger bond.
3. How Much Stress Can the Bond Take? Imagine how much force it would take to pull your glued items apart. This is what engineers consider when choosing glue. They often test glues by pulling them to see how much they can handle.
4. Open Time Matters: Once you've found the right glue for your surface, pay attention to the "open time." This is the amount of time you must position your items before the glue dries. Different glues dry at different speeds, so plan your project accordingly.
5. Finding the Perfect Fit: Think about what you need from your glue beyond just sticking things together. Consider factors like drying time, flexibility, thickness, and even color! There are many glue options available, so you can find one that perfectly suits your project.
6. Price Isn't Everything: While cost is important, focus on what the glue needs to do first. The right glue can save you money in the long run by preventing mistakes and re-doing work. Ellsworth Adhesives can help you consider all the factors, including tools you might need to apply the glue, to find the most cost-effective solution for your project.
Bonus Tip: Test First!
Even after following these tips, it's always a good idea to test the glue on a small hidden area of your materials first. This way, you can be sure it works perfectly before gluing your entire project together. Ellsworth Adhesives might even be able to help you with this testing process!
Ellsworth Adhesives is the global distributor of adhesives, specialty chemicals, and dispensing equipment with expansive stocking capabilities with temperature-controlled storage in strategic locations to assist with product selection and integration into your manufacturing process.
Ellsworth Adhesives is CUSECO, ISO 9001 & AS9120B Certified, REACH & RoHS Compliant & ITAR Compliant.
