Information for designers
Every
day, designers struggle with the limits of design in relation to functionality.
The visual look must not come at the expense of functionality, which in turn
must remain in balance with the design. In the meantime, topical issues such as
safety, legislation and the environment also play a separate role in the design
process.
The application of adhesives, sealants and coatings gives designers more
freedom of movement literally and figuratively. This increased freedom of
design can be observed in vehicles, machines, furniture and packagings.
Adhesives, sealants and coatings are increasingly used to join, seal or protect
materials and surfaces.
These different functions can often be combined in one or more products. This
allows designers greater freedom with regard to expression, functionality and
production options. In addition, the use of adhesives, sealants and coatings
makes it possible to realise stronger constructions of higher quality in the
end product.
Although bonding, sealing and coating are distinct techniques, they also have
many similarities. Adhesion, strength and resistance are the key criteria in
choosing the best technology to solve a particular design problem.
Because of the increasing use of new materials, adhesives are emerging as a
popular method to achieve durable bonding of these materials. This development
is taking place at the expense of conventional joining methods such as
mechanical fastening or welding. The choice for a particular adhesive, sealant
or coating depends on the following factors:
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Demands
placed on the end product
Mechanical load, temperature, flexibility, impact load, fire safety,
durability, maintenance, the effects of moisture and aesthetic aspects. |
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Demands
placed on the bond
The characteristics of the bond in terms of its design, the materials and the
bonding method used. This can include the flexibility of the bond, presence
or absence of electrical conduction, resistance to UV radiation, resistance
to fatigue, etc. |
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Selection
of materials
High-grade or dissimilar materials are difficult or impossible to weld
together. Screws, rivets and other (conventional) mechanical fastening
methods damage the basic material. This is often undesirable from the point
of view of material strength, fatigue characteristics or for aesthetic
reasons. |
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Production
options
This includes factors such as lead time, accessibility of the bond, permitted
heat development during the bonding process, and quality assurance. |
Bostik has summarised the most important points of attention designers should
take into account when designing durable adhesive bonds. Click here for the
product characteristics of adhesives, their advantages
and various points of attention. Click the link to Bostiks
reference projects for an overview of practical applications where adhesive
bonding played an important role in the realisation of the final design.
Bostik
provides support and advice to designers and helps them find the best solution.
Please contact the Customer Service department for more
information. Bostik is active in numerous different sectors. Click here to read
more specific information about Bostiks role in these sectors.
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