Two-component epoxies are suitable for structural bonding and protective potting. For many industrial applications, the time lapse before reaching initial strength has been deemed a major disadvantage—until now. For the first time, there is a viable and instantaneous form of light fixation for two-component epoxies. This new technology promises to speed up and simplify the assembly process.
Over the past several years, dual-curing acrylic and silicone adhesives have greatly shortened adhesive bonding time in high-volume assembly applications. When exposed to high-intensity UV light, these adhesives can bond two parts within seconds before the resin achieves full strength via a secondary curing mechanism. This has enormously reduced wait times for further processing of an assembly. In addition, UV-curing adhesives have enabled more precise assembly. Parts can be carefully aligned and then bonded instantly, without the need for clamping or fixturing. This has been crucial for coping with the increasing level of miniaturization in many sectors.