Gaskets are substrates, typically foam, rubber or paper, that act as an interface or seal between two surfaces. They are found throughout industry, but are especially common in electronics, transportation, fluid handling and appliances. Their assembly requires resistance to a number of fluids, high adhesion to difficult-to-bond surfaces, and fast and easy application.
Gasket Attachment Assemblies Typically Require
Because gaskets are often held in place with pressure and friction (O-rings, for example) a true “bond” may not be required. In applications such as these, adhesive bonded gaskets are most commonly placed in compression stress.
The primary function of the adhesive or tape is to seal and permanently bond the gasket should the two different parts be separated. For gaskets with exposed edges or applications requiring frequent separation (e.g. refrigerator doors), peel stresses become prominent. Gasket material is often very flexible, and adhesives and tapes with high peel strengths are required.
3M tapes, adhesives, sealers and fasteners offer a range of products for panel-to-frame and stiffener-to-panel applications. Permanently bond panels to rigid frames. Maintain elasticity for dynamic loads or to allow for expansion when temperatures change.
Consider the following factors when choosing a product
High-strength bonding tapes that can be die-cut into a variety of shapes to replace rubber or foam gaskets, providing an instant, simple solution. Their closed-cell construction provides a watertight barrier between flat parts.
One part solvent-free cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesive that reaches handling strength in 5–30 seconds. Best for small very tight bondlines (<10 cm2 ). Commonly used on rubbers and plastics.
One-part anaerobic adhesives can be applied as a curing liquid gasket between complex metal shapes, replacing pre-formed gaskets.
Can be pre-applied to gasketing material which is then die-cut to provide parts. These products provide instant adhesion to flat, untextured substrates.
Can be pre-applied to gasketing material which is then die-cut to provide parts. These products provide instant adhesion.
Solvent and water based adhesives can be sprayed, brushed or roll applied. Very fast, easy and economical coverage of multiple substrates, irregular shapes and mild textures.
All 3M technologies shown below are commonly used in gasket attachment applications. Use the list below as a relative comparison of product performance.
Need help finding the right product for your project? Contact us if you need product, technical or application advice or want to collaborate with a 3M technical specialist, or give us a call at +27 011 806 2000.
Need help finding the right product for your project? Contact us if you need product, technical or application advice or want to collaborate with a 3M technical specialist, or give us a call at +27 011 806 2000.