Epoxy Adhesives

3501 B/A Gray and DP 3501

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Surface Preparation

For high strength structural bonds, paint, oxide films, oils, dust, mold release agents

and all other surface contaminants must be removed. The amount of surface

preparation depends on the user’s required bond strength and environmental aging

resistance.

The following cleaning methods are suggested for these common surfaces:

Steel:

1. Wipe free of dust with oil-free solvent such as Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK).*

2. Sandblast or abrade using clean fine grit abrasives.

3. Wipe again with solvent to remove loose particles.

Aluminum:

1. Vapor Degrease – Perchloroethylene* condensing vapors for 5-10 minutes.

2. Alkaline Degrease – Oakite 164 solution (9-11 oz./gallon water) at 190°F ± 10°F

(88°C ± 5°C) for 10-20 minutes. Rinse immediately in large quantities of cold

running water.

3. Acid Etch: Place panels in the following solution for 10 minutes at 150°F ± 5°F

(66°C ± 2°C).

Sodium Dichromate

4.1-4.9 oz./gallon

Sulfuric Acid, 66°Be

38.5-41.5 oz./gallon

2024-T3 aluminum (dissolved)

0.2 oz./gallon minimum

Tap Water

Balance of Volume

Note: Read and follow component supplier’s environmental, health and safety

recommendations prior to preparation of this etch solution.

4. Rinse – Rinse panels in clear running tap water.

5. Dry – Air dry 15 minutes; force dry 10 minutes at 150°F ± 5°F (66°C ± 2°C).

6. If primer is to be used, it should be applied within 4 hours after surface

preparation.

7. Read manufacturer’s hazard communication and follow manufacturer’s

recommended guidelines for safe handling of the above chemical products.

Plastics:

1. Solvent wipe with Isopropyl Alcohol.*

2. Abrade using clean fine grit abrasives.

3. Solvent wipe with Isopropyl Alcohol.*

Rubbers:

1. Solvent wipe with Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK).*

2. Abrade using clean fine grit abrasives.

3. Solvent wipe with MEK.*

*Note: When using solvents, extinguish all ignition sources and follow manufacturer’s

precautions and directions for use.