“I am looking for an adhesive that can be used to bond tubes made of flurorocarbons (PVDF and FEP) to a titanium connector. This connection needs to withstand repeated autoclave sterilization at 134° celsius. Do you have any recommendations?”

Fluoropolymers such as PVDF, FEP, and PTFE (Teflon) are very difficult to adhere to. The only way to overcome this is by using a chemical etch solution. Two possible suppliers are www.actontech.com or www.fluorocarbon.co.uk. Both web sites also offer a variety of information regarding this topic.

The etching process removes a layer of fluorine atoms from the surface and allows oxygen and hydrogen from the atmosphere to attach, which enables adhesives to bond to it. The next challenge is the required resistance to repeated autoclave cycles. We recommend trying a two-part or heat-curable epoxy from Masterbond or Epoxy Technology.

Adhesives Adhesives, bond FEP, bond PVDF, bonding titanium, FEP Tubing, flurorocarbons, heat-curable epoxy, PVDF bonding, two-part epoxy

“I am trying to bond 304 stainless steel to 304 stainless steel without welding. A strip of stainless steel is put into place once the device is completely assembled and welding would damage sensitive electronic components. The strip of stainless steel is currently held in place with high bond-strength double-sided tape with foam between the adhesive layers. The foam helps the strip to take its shape over slight surface variations in the welded cabinet it is being affixed to. The problem is that the foam can be shifted over allowing access to what is behind the strip. Pry bars have then been used to gain access into the device. It has been difficult to find an adhesive that can allow for surface irregularities. The adhesive must be able to withstand outdoor temperature extremes, moisture, and UV since this device can be permanently installed anywhere. The adhesive must also have other special properties because the strip is installed vertically to the cabinet and it is done on a shop floor where there are a lot of people around. Any ideas?”

For such extreme environment requirements and gap configuration, a 2-part epoxy could possibly be the best solutions for this application.

Adhesives, Structural adhere metal to metal, bond SS, metal bonding, stainless steel, two-part epoxy

“What is the best type of adhesive to use to join two threaded components that are reusable and generally sterilized by steam chambers at temperatures up to 275°F?”

For devices that require repeated cycles of steam sterilization, I would suggest a two-part or heat-curable epoxy. Masterbond and Epoxy Technology offer such products in medical grade versions.

Adhesives autoclave-resistant adhesive, Epoxies, heat-curable epoxy, high-temperature adhesive, two-part epoxy