Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on Super Glue Applications in Automotive Part Assembly: A Technical Guide
While you may not recognize the term cyanoacrylate adhesive, you’ve probably used it before in the form of super glue for household repairs. Also called instant glue, power glue, or by brand names like Krazy Glue, cyanoacrylate adhesives are valued for their quick curing properties, thermal shock resistance, impact resistance, flexibility, wide viscosity range, and ability to bond a wide range of automotive component substrates.
This guide explores how these adhesives are used in the automotive industry, how they work, their benefits, and recent advancements in automotive adhesive technology.
How Cyanoacrylates (AKA Instant Adhesives) Work
Cyanoacrylates need moisture to create a bond, and typically, the humidity in the air and on the substrate surface provides all the moisture they need to work effectively. The molecules in cyanoacrylate adhesives react instantly with atmospheric moisture to form long polymeric chains between the material surfaces. In the context of adhesives used in the automotive industry, this quick reaction makes them an ideal choice for fast, reliable assembly work. For best bonding performance, press the substrates together until the glued assembly can be carefully handled, which is typically very fast, ranging from 5 to 90 seconds. This is known as fixture time. The bond will strengthen after about 10 minutes and fully cure within 24 hours.
It doesn’t take much cyanoacrylate adhesive to create a strong joint. One drop can cover about one square inch. While porous surfaces may require slightly more, adding excess adhesive generally won’t increase strength. Instead, it may waste product and cause overflow (also known as squeeze-out) between the substrates, creating the need for additional cleanup or finishing.
When a strong bond must form instantly, an accelerator (aka setter) can be used. Apply the adhesive to one surface and the accelerator to the other; when pressed together, the materials will bond immediately. This is especially useful when time is critical or when the joint could be disturbed before the adhesive fully cures.
Another option is to spray an accelerator over the bond line after applying the adhesive and mating the two substrates together. This method works well in dry environments or when bonding oily or acidic substrates. For certain engineering plastics with low surface energy, such as polypropylene, a cyanoacrylate primer can also be applied to improve bonding conditions and ensure lasting adhesion.
Advancements in Cyanoacrylate Adhesives for the Automotive Industry
Modern cyanoacrylate adhesives have evolved to meet the changing needs of vehicle manufacturing:
High-temperature resistance: New formulations can maintain bond integrity under extreme heat, making them more reliable in under-hood and high-performance automotive applications.
Improved bonding for lightweight materials: Enhanced formulas allow for stronger adhesion to aluminum, composites, and engineered plastics commonly used in today’s lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Long-term moisture exposure grades: Specialty cyanoacrylate formulations have greater moisture resistance, providing durable bonds in humid or wet conditions.
Improved bonding for flexible substrates: Flexible instant cyanoacrylate adhesives are designed for use on flexible materials such as rubber, film, and leather products. These adhesives provide good moisture and heat resistance, making them suitable for challenging environments while maintaining bond flexibility.
These developments give automotive manufacturers and repair professionals greater flexibility in design and assembly without compromising durability.
Key Advantages of Cyanoacrylates for Automotive Applications
Cyanoacrylates are widely used in the automotive industry because of their exceptional bond strength and reliability. As one of the most versatile adhesives used in automotive industry applications, they can withstand extreme conditions, performing in temperatures from -40° to 250° F. Cyanoacrylates are ideal in situations where other glues or fasteners aren’t practical, such as:
Joining dissimilar materials
When clamping the materials isn’t possible or ideal
Performing maintenance or repairs
Bonding rubber or engineering plastics
When appearance matters
When speed matters
When the adhesive must resist chemicals, water, and heat
Although cyanoacrylate adhesives create a permanent bond, it is possible to break it intentionally using very high heat (above 350° F) and a debonding solvent like acetone.
Comparing Cyanoacrylate Adhesives to Other Automotive Bonding Methods
In automotive manufacturing and repair, there are a variety of bonding options, each with its own strengths and limitations. Cyanoacrylate adhesives stand out for their speed, ease of use, and ability to create strong bonds without heat or complex clamping systems.
Versus epoxy adhesives: Epoxies are valued for their durability and gap-filling ability, but they generally require longer curing times, sometimes several hours. Epoxies also require more preparation and precise meter mixing. Cyanoacrylates cure in minutes or even seconds, making them ideal for fast assembly, on-the-line repairs, or situations where downtime must be minimized.
Versus polyurethane adhesives: Polyurethanes provide flexibility and good adhesion to a wide range of substrates, but they can be more challenging to apply and may require moisture or elevated temperatures to cure effectively. Cyanoacrylates offer a faster, simpler application process while still achieving high bond strength on metals, plastics, and composites.
Versus mechanical fasteners: Bolts, screws, and rivets provide immediate mechanical strength, but they add weight, require drilled holes, and can concentrate stress at specific points. Cyanoacrylate bonds distribute loads evenly, reduce the need for visible hardware, and help maintain clean design lines.
Versus hot melt adhesives: Hot melt adhesives are solid at room temperature and activated when heated beyond their softening point (above 250° F). Although they provide a good bond for flexible materials, hot melt adhesives are not suitable for structural bonding and can take hours to reach full bond strength. Cyanoacrylates are suitable for rigid substrates and can reach full bond strength in seconds.
In many cases, cyanoacrylate adhesives are used in combination with other bonding methods such as mechanical fasteners to provide both structural reinforcement and long-term durability. The best choice depends on the materials involved, the desired bond characteristics, and the demands of the application.
Typical Applications of CA Glues in the Automotive Industry
In the automotive industry, weight reduction is an ongoing goal, but it must be achieved without compromising safety or performance. While cyanoacrylate adhesives can’t replace welding or mechanical fasteners in load-bearing or structural components, they can play a role in certain lightweighting strategies.
One example is in reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Cyanoacrylates can be used to bond rubber to metal or to attach a nylon mesh sleeve over a rubber hose. This helps prevent abrasion that can occur when a bare rubber hose rubs against a metal surface, contributing to longer component life and improved performance without adding unnecessary weight.
Beyond NVH-related uses, cyanoacrylate adhesives are applied in a variety of non-structural areas both inside and outside the vehicle.
Exterior Applications
Door weather stripping: Cyanoacrylates securely bond rubber weather stripping to door frames, providing a tight seal against the elements.
Sunroof and deck lid seals: These adhesives are suitable for bonding rubber seals around sunroofs and deck lids, creating a waterproof barrier.
Side guard moldings: They can attach side guard moldings to the car body, enhancing the vehicle’s appearance and providing some protection.
Windshield wiper blades: Cyanoacrylates can be used to repair or reinforce the connection between the wiper blade and its arm.
Tail lamp rubber seals: They effectively bond rubber seals around tail lamps, preventing water and dust ingress.
Bright trim window molding end caps: These adhesives can secure end caps on window moldings, maintaining a finished look.
Grill/spoiler fascia trims: Cyanoacrylates can bond decorative trims and fascias to the grill or spoiler.
Interior Applications
Interior trim and upholstery: They can be used to reattach loose trim pieces or repair upholstery, providing a strong and lasting bond.
Rubber grommets for dash/firewall thru holes: Cyanoacrylates can secure rubber grommets in place, protecting wires and cables.
Headliner components: They can bond headliner components to the car’s roof.
Hand brake covers: Cyanoacrylates can be used to repair or attach hand brake covers.
Gear shift selector covers: They can be used for bonding gear shift selector covers.
Plastic clip assemblies: These adhesives can be used to repair or replace broken plastic clips that hold interior panels and trim in place.
Wire harness assemblies: Cyanoacrylates can secure wire harnesses to the car’s body, preventing rattling and damage.
Under-the-Hood/Engine Applications
Anti-vibration motor mounts: Cyanoacrylates can be used to reinforce or repair motor mounts, reducing vibrations.
Gaskets: They can be used to bond gaskets in place, ensuring a proper seal for fluids and gases.
Air/fuel/transmission hose and clamp assemblies: Cyanoacrylates can be used to secure hoses and clamps, preventing leaks and ensuring proper fluid flow.
Electronic and sensor components: These adhesives can be used to bond and secure various electronic components and sensors under the hood.
Other Applications
Wire harnesses: Cyanoacrylates are used for securing wire harnesses to various parts of the car, including the dashboard, engine bay, and chassis, to prevent wire chafing and damage.
Automotive sensors: They are used to bond and encapsulate sensors for accurate readings and reliable operation.
Encapsulation and sealing of electronic components: Cyanoacrylates can be used to seal and protect electronic components from moisture and other environmental factors.
Choosing the Right Cyanoacrylate for Automotive Parts
Choosing the right cyanoacrylate adhesive for automotive parts depends on several factors, including the materials being bonded, the required bond strength, environmental conditions, and application specifics.
Cyanoacrylates are effective on a diverse range of automotive materials such as plastics (ABS, acrylic, nylon, polycarbonate, PVC), metals (aluminum, steel, zinc), composites (carbon fiber, fiber-reinforced plastics), and natural materials (leather, wood). Primers are typically used for low surface energy plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene. Accelerators are sometimes used to bond porous materials like fabric, leather, and other absorbent substrates.
Furthermore, choosing the proper cyanoacrylate viscosity for the application depends on the fit between mating parts:
Thin: Flows easily into tight-fitting parts and small cracks for quick, precise bonding.
Medium: Versatile for filling small gaps and handling a range of general repairs.
Thick: Ideal for bigger or uneven gaps and vertical or overhead surfaces where run-off is a concern.
Other considerations when selecting a cyanocrylate for automotive bonding applications include the following:
Bond strength: Depending on the forces and loads the bonded parts will encounter, make sure the chosen cyanoacrylate has sufficient shear and tensile strength.
Environmental resistance: Choose adhesives that can withstand the specific operational conditions of the application. For example, heat-resistant methyl cyanoacrylates are often preferred to bond metal or engine surfaces that experience high temperatures.
Cure time: Some cyanoacrylates have very fast cure times, while others take longer to reach full bond strength. Choose an adhesive that matches the specific application’s assembly speed.
Peel strength: Standard cyanoacylates tend to have relatively low peel strength, so determine the need for peel resistance. Also, consider whether the parts will ever need to be disassembled and find methods for dissolving the adhesive without damaging the parts.
CA Glues at Aron Alpha
Given their strength and versatility, cyanoacrylate adhesives will have their place in the automotive and other industries for years to come. As one of the original producers of cyanoacrylate adhesives, many manufacturers turn to us for their car glue adhesive needs. For more than 60 years, Aron Alpha has been serving a variety of manufacturing sectors throughout Japan, Europe, South America, and North America, including automotive, general assembly, and electronics.
We have adhesives, primers, accelerators, and applicators to suit almost any application. If we can’t find a standard product for your needs, we’re happy to develop custom formulations targeted to the unique needs of your application.
To learn more about automotive cyanoacrylate adhesives or about our products and capabilities, reach out to us today.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on How to Get Super Glue Cyanoacrylate Off Your Hands
Super glue (cyanoacrylate) is ideal for crafting, repairing, and assembly applications in manufacturing processes, providing a rapid and strong bond. However, when it sticks to your hands, it can be difficult to remove. The key is not to wait for super glue to dry and try to peel it off, as doing so may damage your skin. We will guide you through how to get super glue off skin and objects, introducing you to home remedies and commercial solutions for safe removal.
Warm Water and Soap
Start with the easiest method: using soap and warm water. This simple DIY solution for super glue skin removal is particularly effective if the glue has not fully dried. It can work in cases where your fingers are stuck together or stuck to another object. Soak the affected area in warm water, and then gently peel or rub the glue from your skin. You can also try scraping residue from the area with a blunt object. However, if this method doesn’t work or is painful, you may need to use another method.
Nail Polish Remover (Acetone)
Nail polish remover, or acetone, can effectively remove super glue from your hands or skin. Pour the acetone into a basin and soak your hand or skin for several minutes. Minimize the time your skin is in contact with the nail polish remover, as prolonged contact can cause irritation. Remove your hands from the bowl frequently to check if the glue has dislodged. Repeat the process until the glue loosens. Afterward, wash your hands with soap and water and apply a moisturizer.
Acetone is an effective solution for dissolving glue, but it can cause skin irritation and be painful if the skin is broken, irritated, or cut. Acetone may also damage or discolor materials, so using acetone to remove an object stuck to your skin with super glue may not be ideal in some cases. As a liquid, nail polish remover is a less targeted solution that can run away and evaporate more quickly compared to gelled solvents.
Lemon Juice
To remove super glue from your hands, you can also soak them in lemon juice, giving the acid in the juice time to break down the bond. Pour lemon juice into a bowl and soak the affected area for up to 10 minutes. After, use a dry towel to gently rub or push off the glue residue. Other natural solutions, such as olive oil, coconut oil, or butter may also help remove super glue from your skin.
Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover
If the previous methods are ineffective, use our commercial glue removal solution: Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover. This gelled solvent super glue remover is specifically designed to remove strong adhesive bonds like cyanoacrylate from hands, skin, and objects. It offers the following benefits:
Effective Super Glue Remover: Krazy Fix is formulated to effectively remove hardened glue from skin, ceramics, plastics, wood, and other surfaces. It dissolves the toughest glue bonds with ease.
Powerful Gel Formula: Krazy Fix’s gel formulation eliminates the mess of methods like oils, lemon juice, and nail polish remover. It offers better control and ease of use to deliver a satisfying user experience.
Convenient Plastic Spatula Included: Krazy Fix products include a plastic spatula to assist in mixing the gel and scraping hardened adhesive from surfaces.
Versatile Solution: By easily removing unwanted glue residue, Krazy Fix offers versatility in building, repairing, and creating with cyanoacrylate glue products.
High-Quality Materials: Our Krazy Glue and Krazy Fix products are formulated with high-quality materials. We offer heavy-duty wall-hanging tape, waterproof glue formulations for outdoor applications, and products that effectively remove these adhesives.
Things to Avoid When Removing Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate) From Your Hands
It is natural to want to remove super glue as soon as possible, but it can take up to an hour to remove the glue safely. Avoid any forceful methods that can cause pain or damage to the skin. Don’t scrub the affected area with harsh abrasives or pumice stones. If you do break the skin, follow these best practices:
Don’t apply chemicals to the injury.
Wash the injury with soap and water.
Apply petroleum jelly to the wound.
Apply a bandage to any skin injuries and give them time to heal.
See a doctor if you notice pain, redness, or swelling in the injured area.
Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover From Toagosei America
Removing super glue from your hands or other objects can be tricky. Depending on the dryness of the glue and the affected area, there are several remedies, from soap and warm water to acetone to commercial solutions. As the manufacturer of the cyanoacrylate instant adhesive Krazy Glue, Toagosei America specially formulated Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover for ease of application and safe removal of super glue from skin and other materials.
At Toagosei America, we serve a global customer base with reliable adhesive solutions for the electronics, automotive, industrial assembly, medical, woodworking, and other industries. Contact us to learn more about how you can benefit from our industrial adhesive solutions.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on How to Remove Super Glue From Skin, Plastic, Glass, Fabric, and More
About Super Glue
Super glue is known for quick and effective adhesion with different materials, which can become a problem when it gets on hands or other surfaces. Knowing how to get super glue off of affected areas can save you lots of frustration.
Removing super glue from unwanted places using a little warm, soapy water or an industrial remover can do the trick in a pinch. Certain surfaces and materials, such as delicate fabrics, certain plastics, and skin or hair may require further attention to achieve the desired results.
This blog discusses different methods for removing super glue from various surfaces and how Aron Alpha’s Krazy® Fix Super Glue Remover can help dissolve those tougher glue bonds.
5 Methods for Removing Super Glue From Different Surfaces
Super glue, also known as cyanoacrylate glue or Krazy® Glue, is an instant adhesive that creates strong polymer bonds between materials. While known for its excellent bonding properties, super glue can be problematic when it adheres to unwanted surfaces.
The good news is that there are several proven ways to remove cyanoacrylate glue from skin, plastic, glass, fabric, and other surfaces. Here are some techniques you can use when removing hardened super glue:
Removing Super Glue from Skin and Hair
Super glue bonds quickly upon contact with the skin, owing to the natural moisture that the skin produces. While acetone might work in a pinch, it can also cause dryness or discomfort for some people.
Professional adhesive removers, however, are designed to quickly and easily remove the glue from your skin and fingers. Using a gel offers greater control over the process without the mess.
To remove super glue from hair, lips, and other sensitive areas, you can use peanut butter, margarine, or vegetable oil to remove the glue.
Removing Super Glue from Plastic
Cyanoacrylate glue forms an exceptionally strong bond with plastic materials. Begin by soaking the area with nitromethane or a mixture of ammonia-free detergent and water to soften tough bonds. Use Krazy® Fix Glue Remover to remove the glue, working carefully to avoid damaging the finish.
Removing Super Glue from Glass
Like plastic, super glue adheres quite strongly to glass. For scratch-resistant surfaces, use our Krazy® Fix Super Glue Remover to loosen the glue and scrape it off with our plastic spatula.
Extra care should be taken with scratchable surfaces. Gentler solvents like water, rubbing alcohol, and toothpaste can help remove unwanted glue in these cases.
Removing Super Glue from Fabric
Removing super glue from clothes can be a strenuous task. Just ask our factory associates- we also spill Krazy® Glue onto our uniforms from time to time!
While you could soak more durable fabrics in acetone, we wouldn’t recommend it. Try to avoid applying too much pressure, as well- the wetness of glue can cause it to spread, and scraping hardened glue can tear the fabric.
Krazy® Fix Super Glue Remover is designed to lift and remove glue with minimal damage to fabric surfaces. To lift the hardened residue, simply apply adhesive remover and let it set for a minute or so.
Removing Super Glue from Metal
You can easily remove super glue from metal surfaces using our heavy-duty adhesive remover, a scrapping tool, and a hammer. Add a small amount of the adhesive remover to break the bond and remove the softened adhesive with the scrapping tool.
If you are dealing with larger drops, gently tap on the dry spill using a hammer to loosen it.
Risk Factors to Consider When Removing Super Glue
Here are some factors to keep in mind when getting super glue off your skin and surfaces:
Don’t pull too hard. Be gentle when removing glued areas and avoid applying too much force.
Avoid harsh chemicals. Don’t use any harsh chemicals unless they are specifically made for glue removal. Some chemicals can damage your skin.
Don’t use sharp objects. Never scrape off glue using sharp objects that can lead to injury. Avoid objects such as razors, knives, and scissors.
If you are looking for an effective way to quickly remove super glue from surfaces, consider Aron Alpha’s Krazy® Fix Super Glue Remover. It comes with a black plastic spatula to lift and separate bonded surfaces without damaging them. You can simply apply the gel super glue remover to a surface and manipulate the solvent to remove the cured super glue.
Powerful. Krazy® Fix uses a unique formula to dissolve stubborn adhesive bonds, effectively removing hardened glue from various surfaces like wood, plastic, ceramics, and skin.
Convenient. Every Krazy® Fix remover pack comes with a plastic spatula specifically crafted to assist in blending the remover and gently scraping off old adhesive residues.
Versatile. Our adhesive remover presents a flexible option for creators, repairers, and builders, providing simplicity with only a few easy steps to eliminate undesired goo.
Tackle Stubborn Bonds with Krazy® Fix Super Glue Remover
While super glue is a favorite for its exceptional bonding properties, it can be problematic when it adheres to the wrong surfaces. Removing super glue requires a combination of effective solvents and techniques tailored to the material to which it is bonded.
Krazy® Fix Super Glue Remover is carefully designed to dissolve stubborn adhesive bonds and remove hardened glue from various surfaces, including fabric, plastic, ceramics, and even skin. Every Krazy® Fix package comes with a plastic spatula for mixing and scraping away old adhesives. This tool is crafted to safely lift and separate old glue from a range of materials.
Contact us today to request a demo. We can help resolve even the stickiest problems!
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on Unusual Applications of Cyanoacrylates
Cyanoacrylates are quick-acting adhesives, often known as super glues or power glues. They are a strong and convenient product used for many purposes in industry and at home. Let’s look at what cyanoacrylates are, the advantages they offer, and some of the more unusual applications super glues are used for.
What Are Cyanoacrylates?
Cyanoacrylates are a group of adhesives called acryls that bond materials instantly in the presence of moisture. Because they are fast to work with and create high-strength bonds, they are often used in assembly tasks in automotive, medical device manufacturing, electronics, construction, and consumer products.
Cyanoacrylates set quickly without the use of clamps, so objects or assemblies can be handled within seconds. Bonds have high tensile strength and are effective with stiff or rigid materials. Once cured, cyanoacrylates have low ductility and can be brittle, making them vulnerable to impact loads. They are less stable when used with wood or at joints.
Advantages of Cyanoacrylates
Cyanoacrylate super glues provide many advantages, including:
Ease of use: Cyanoacrylates are single-component adhesives, requiring no mixing to activate the chemical bonding process. They are simple and non-messy to apply.
Fast cure time: The polymerization process is quick in the presence of moisture, so there is no need to clamp or secure components during cure time.
High bond strength: Long and strong polymer chain bonds are created as the glue cures. Some formulations can reach strengths of up to 20 megapascals.
Versatility: Cyanoacrylates are effective at bonding similar and dissimilar materials including wood, ceramics, elastomers, plastics, and metals.
Low Toxicity: Cyanoacrylates have relatively low toxicity compared to other adhesives.
Unusual Applications of Cyanoacrylate & Super Glue
Fossil & Mineral Repair
For years, fossils and minerals that broke or were already broken as they were excavated and prepared for analysis had to be thrown away. Then, scientists discovered that the viscosity and instant bonding qualities of super glue were ideal for salvaging these specimens. Cyanoacrylate doesn’t shrink and remains clear as it dries, making it perfect for use with minerals or jewels.
Crime Scene Investigations
A common procedure in crime scenes is collecting fingerprints, but did you know that cyanoacrylate is the adhesive used to collect them? Cyanoacrylates will adhere to the moisture that is deposited by the skin and turn the fingerprints white.
Repairs to Sunglasses, Shoes, Boots, and Straps
One of the handiest uses of cyanoacrylate glue is for small household repairs. You can extend the life of household items with just a small bead of adhesive.
Finger Protections for Guitarists
Guitarists can protect their fingers from cuts or blisters while playing by using super glue. Once the adhesive is applied to the tips of the fingers and allowed to dry, it creates a thin but tough layer that protects the skin from the abrasive guitar strings. Then, to remove the cyanoacrylate from the skin, they can apply one of the methods we mention here.
Underwater Bonding
The initial contact of cyanoacrylate with liquid creates a plastic outer shell, but the interior remains liquid for a short time. When you are ready to bond the items, you use a little force to break the outer shell, revealing the viable adhesive.
Finishing Wood Pens
This adhesive forms a hard, acrylic coating over the wood, protecting it from the ink. The cyanoacrylate glue is also very thin, allowing it to flow smoothly over the surface and dry to a high-gloss finish.
3D Printing Infiltration
3D finished components can remain powdery and granulated unless they are coated. Cyanoacrylates seal the porosity and create a solid, hard surface. Qualities like an ultra-fast cure, good penetration, brilliant color, and a matte or glossy texture make these adhesives ideal for 3D printing infiltration.
Tying Fishing Knots
Strong knots in fishing lines can be made simple with super glue. Place a bead of adhesive on the line where you tied it and drop it into the water for a much stronger bond that equates to a double or triple knot.
Most DIY Projects
The availability, ease of use, and low cost make cyanoacrylates ideal for almost any DIY project!
Medical & Veterinary Cyanoacrylate Uses
Surgical cyanoacrylate is used for suture replacements and various other applications in medicine. Additionally, absorbable grades of cyanoacrylate are being used to facilitate advancements in medical technology. Within the veterinary industry, butyl cyanoacrylate is commonly used to close surgical wounds.
Cyanoacrylates From Aron Alpha
Aron Alpha has been the leader in industrial cyanoacrylate adhesive products and innovations for over six decades. We manufacture and supply cyanoacrylate adhesives, accelerators, primers, and applicators. In addition, our team of engineers and product experts provides custom formulations, lab services and testing, industrial adhesive consultation, and prototype testing.
Contact us to speak with a specialist about how Aron Alpha can help you reach your goal.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on What is Cyanoacrylate Glue?
Choosing the right adhesive for an application can be the difference between success and failure. When it comes to tiny components, small repairs, or applications calling for a strong bond that cures almost instantly, cyanoacrylate adhesives are hard to beat.
But what exactly are these powerful, convenient adhesives? Here we’ll look at how they work, their advantages, and a few of their many applications.
What Is Cyanoacrylate Glue?
Cyanoacrylate glue is a general term for a group of fast-curing, strong adhesives. Commonly called “super glue”, “crazy glue”, or CA glue, it is widely used in industrial and consumer applications to bond similar or dissimilar materials including plastics, ceramics, metals, and even skin.
How Do Cyanoacrylate Adhesives Work?
Cyanoacrylate adhesive is a liquid acryl monomer that cures or hardens in the presence of moisture. As it dries, the adhesive polymerizes, creating strong polymer chains that bond materials tightly.
The curing process is fast and because it is activated by moisture in the air or on the surface of the materials, it is simple to use in many settings. There is no need to mix multiple compounds, apply UV radiation or heat, or even clamp or secure parts during cure time. In many applications, nothing more than residual moisture is required to activate the adhesive; although, some dry or porous materials may need a small spray of water or activator liquid to start the process.
Benefits of Cyanoacrylate Glue
These key benefits make super glue a superior choice for many applications:
Fast cure times: Glues with long cure times delay production and contribute to bottlenecks. Complex assemblies that need precise positioning require clamping or other methods to secure components until the adhesive is fully cured; however, cyanoacrylate glue activates and cures very quickly, so assemblies can be handled in seconds and production can continue.
Low-toxicity: Many industrial adhesives are toxic and release volatile organic compounds that are harmful to workers during production, and to consumers during post-production off-gassing. In comparison, cyanoacrylate glues have far lower levels of toxicity.
Simplicity: In most circumstances, super glue activates automatically due to exposure to moisture in the air or on materials. This makes it easy to use with no mixing or specialty tools.
Strength: Cyanoacrylate glue forms extremely strong bonds between similar and dissimilar surfaces. It is also long-lasting and will not weaken if exposed to moisture. However, it’s important to note that cured CA glue has low ductility and may be vulnerable to impact loads.
Versatility: Unlike most high-performance adhesives, cyanoacrylate glues are effective with almost any type of material including metal, ceramics, plastic, wood, and textiles.
Applications: What is CA Glue Used For?
Hobbyists, designers, and manufacturers of all sizes use cyanoacrylate glue to build complex assemblies and bind disparate components together. While it has uses in almost any setting, three common applications are aerospace, DIY, and medical use cases.
Aerospace Applications
CA adhesives are often specified for aircraft interior components because it is strong and lightweight. They can also be used to repair minor damage to aircraft parts after the manufacturing process.
DIY Applications
Because it is simple to use and dries fast, super glue is a popular choice for crafting and repairs at home. It is especially convenient for bonding small pieces where only a tiny amount of adhesive is needed.
Medical Applications
Cyanoacrylate glue can be used in medical device and equipment assemblies where precision application is needed. Certain formulations can also be used to close wounds or small cuts on humans and animals.
Choose Cyanoacrylate Glue Produces From Aron Alpha
At Aron Alpha, we manufacture and supply industrial cyanoacrylate adhesives, accelerators, and primers for customers in many industries including automotive, construction, maintenance, electronics, industrial assembly, medical, plastics assembly, and more. We also offer custom formulations, lab services and testing, industrial adhesive consultation, and prototype testing.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on Popular Types of Aron Alpha Instant Adhesives
Click to Expand
Aron Alpha® is a pioneer producer of power glues since 1963, otherwise known as cyanoacrylate instant adhesives. Our Industrial Krazy Glue™ offers the most comprehensive line of industrial instant adhesives available for a variety of commercial and industrial uses.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on What is the Best Super Glue for Bonding Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers?
Selecting the proper adhesive for a rubber bonding application demands a consideration of the processing and performance characteristics of the adhesive as well as the substrate material you will be bonding together. Depending on the application , you may need to adhere rubber to different substrates ranging from plastic to metal which might be flexible to hard, or even other rubber materials — each one presenting unique adhesion challenges.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on How Strong Is Super Glue & Baking Soda?
Cyanoacrylate, commonly known as super glue, is the fastest-drying adhesive available on the commercial market. Valued for its high bonding strength and quick curing speed, cyanoacrylate is incorporated into everything from automotive manufacturing to furniture repair. Sometimes, even the exceptional speed with which cyanoacrylate cures isn’t fast enough. Whether you’re doing a tricky job that needs a quick adhesive bond or you’re just in a hurry, you can get your adhesive to cure even faster using baking soda.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on Super Glue Accelerators: Key Considerations & How to Apply Them
Super glue accelerators are an effective tool for making super glue applications more convenient and simpler with predictable and repeatable performance results. The primary function of an accelerator (also referred to as cyanoacrylate setters, kicker, boost, blast) is to facilitate extremely fast setting (curing) and bond times, however, it can be utilized to “build” or “mound” a surface to fill gaps and create a “fillet”, improve bonding on porous surfaces like wood, ceramic or foam rubber and used to help mitigate blooming or frosting on your finished assembled item.
Posted by Aron Alpha Team on | Comments Off on Why Should I Use Super Glue for Rubber Bonding?
Rubber has many applications across a wide range of industries—from tires on cars and roofs on buildings to tubes in industrial equipment. In many of these situations, the rubber must be bonded to another piece of rubber, another kind of rubber, or another type of substrate (e.g., metal, wood, or plastic) to create a usable product. Forming an effective bonding necessitates the proper selection and application of an adhesive. The wrong type and method could result in a weak bond (or no bond) or damage the substrates.
