Better adhesion of coatings and for bonding

Combining different materials is the domain of joining technology. The classical methods of screws, rivets, soldering and welding are fast approaching their limits in terms of innovations and developments. Adhesives, on the other hand, offer a number of advantages. For the best adhesion of workpieces, keying needs to be carried out on their surfaces. Adhesive compounds allow the extensive introduction and distribution of force across the entire glued joint. Higher static and dynamic loads are therefore possible with bonded constructions once keying has been carried out on the surfaces. The properties of the surfaces that are to be bonded are crucial for the quality of any gluing process. A distinction is made between chemical, physical and thermodynamic properties. A lot of processes take place in the interface layer, i.e. the layer in which the surface molecules bond with those of the adhesive: the adhesive forces are greatly affected by the physical and chemical interactions going on in the interface layer.

Keying increases the overall surface and therefore offers more contact

The keying of workpieces increases their surface. The macroscopic conditions of the surface have an effect on the potential stability of the bond. As the surface increases - i.e. after keying - the surface-dependent atomic and molecular interactions increase. This improves adhesion. During the production process, modern plastics especially do not initially exhibit the surface properties required for gluing or coating. By keying them with an automated blasting method, these properties can be improved inexpensively and efficiently.

We will be happy to check whether keying is an option for your application or workpiece. In our test laboratory, we investigate the effects of various blast agents and blast methods, determining exactly the right method for your needs. Just give us a call on +49 (0) 7741 808 93 0 and talk to us. Or send us an e-mail to info(at)sigg-strahltechnik(dot)de - and of course we’ll be happy to call you back too.