Key considerations when choosing adhesives for manufacturing

Substrate compatibility

This is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting adhesives is substrate compatibility. Different adhesives are designed to bond with specific materials, such as metals, plastics, composites, or ceramics. This means that it’s essential to choose an adhesive that is compatible with the materials being bonded to ensure strong and durable adhesion.

Conducting compatibility tests or consulting with adhesive manufacturers can help determine the best adhesive for your specific substrates.

Bond strength and performance requirements

When choosing an adhesive, it is important to consider what it is required to hold together. The desired bond strength and performance requirements of the application should therefore be taken into account.

Consider factors such as load-bearing capacity, shear strength, tensile strength, and environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, chemical exposure) that the adhesive will be subjected to during service. Select an adhesive with the appropriate properties to meet the performance demands of your application, whether it’s structural bonding or sealing.

Application method

The method of adhesive application can also vary depending on the manufacturing process and the specific requirements of the application.

You should take into consideration how the adhesive will be applied, whether it will be done manually, with automated dispensing equipment, or through other methods such as spray or roll coating. This is important because you need to choose an adhesive formulation that is compatible with your preferred application method to ensure uniform coverage, proper cure, and efficient production.

Cure time and process

The cure time of the adhesive is also incredibly important. The time it takes for the adhesive to achieve its full strength can impact production efficiency and throughput. Some adhesives cure quickly at room temperature, while others require heat, pressure, or curing agents to accelerate the curing process.

Evaluate the curing requirements of the adhesive and see how it aligns with your manufacturing process and production schedule. Additionally, consider factors such as open time (working time) and pot life (usable time after mixing) to ensure adequate time for assembly and alignment before the adhesive sets.

Environmental considerations

Take into account the environmental factors that your adhesive will be exposed to. Look at things such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals or UV radiation as these can all affect the performance and durability of adhesives.

Choose adhesives that are suitable for the specific environmental conditions of your application to ensure long-term stability and reliability. Give thought on whether the adhesive needs to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, outdoor exposure, or harsh chemical environments, and select one with a formulation that will allow it to survive those conditions.

Regulatory compliance

Compliance with industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements is essential when selecting adhesives for manufacturing applications. This becomes particularly important in regulated industries such as automotive, aerospace, and medical devices.

Ensure that the chosen adhesive meets relevant regulatory standards and certifications for performance, safety, and environmental impact. Adhesive manufacturers can provide documentation and certifications to verify compliance with regulatory requirements.

Cost and value considerations

While performance and reliability are paramount, cost considerations also play a significant role in adhesive selection. Evaluate the overall cost of the adhesive, including purchase price, application costs, labor, and potential downtime associated with adhesive failure. Consider the total cost of ownership over the product lifecycle, including maintenance, repair, and replacement costs, to determine the value proposition of the adhesive. Balance cost considerations with performance requirements to find the most cost-effective solution for your application.

Storage and shelf life

Incorrect storage and handling could lead to failure of the product which in some cases can be detrimental. It is therefore critical to ensure that the correct storage is used to maintain the quality and effectiveness of adhesives.
Think about the storage conditions required for the adhesive, such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to light, and ensure compliance with manufacturer recommendations. Pay attention to the shelf life of the adhesive and plan inventory management accordingly to minimize waste and ensure freshness.

Conclusion

Be sure to take into account all of the factors surrounding the use of the adhesive, along with cost and production method when choosing which one is best for you. By evaluating these key considerations and working closely with adhesive manufacturers or technical experts, manufacturers can select adhesives that deliver optimal performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for their production processes. With the right adhesive solution in place, manufacturers can achieve strong and durable bonds that meet the demanding requirements of modern manufacturing applications.