Acrylate adhesive for metal joints

Acrylate describes the adhesive chemistry. The listed system is a one-component reactive adhesive based on acrylate and cures anaerobically: after assembly, the reaction starts when air is excluded and the adhesive contacts metal. The word “acrylate” alone therefore specifies neither a particular number of components nor the same curing route for every acrylate adhesive. For your joint, compare the specific product information on substrates, processing and curing.

For the listed system, the manufacturer names metal joints involving steel, aluminium, zinc and their alloys, as well as ferrites. These materials provide the starting point for product selection. Your actual surface, geometry and loading still need to be assessed for the joint. Acrylate chemistry does not, by itself, establish suitability for plastics or other materials; include both substrates when you send an inquiry about such requirements.

The optimal joint gap for the listed system is 0.05–0.15 mm. The manufacturer also states that moisture, grease and other contaminants should be removed from the bonding surfaces. The amount applied depends on the gap width, surface roughness and unevenness. After even application, join the parts immediately, position them correctly and hold them in place. Check the actual gap and assembly sequence on your parts before choosing the system.

Handling strength and final strength are specified separately for the listed system. At 25 °C it reaches handling strength within 2 h at most; final strength at 25 °C is stated after 24 h. Additional heat can accelerate curing, but requires a suitable process and parts that tolerate the temperature. Do not transfer these times to other acrylate adhesives. The time before the next process step and the actual joint conditions matter for your production.