Visual aesthetic design plays an important role in new product development. It is imperative to product differentiation, branding and marketplace sales. Unique appearance requires collaboration/coordination with suppliers who bring external expertise. Commercial success is dependent on balancing the needs for functionality/useability with the visual appeal/ergonomics of these devices/equipment.
Utilization of structural adhesives has numerous advantages over traditional mechanical fasteners when joining similar/dissimilar substrates. Among the most prominent is uniform stress distribution over the entire bonded area, fatigue resistance, ease of manufacturing, fast processing, reduced labor costs, lightweight construction, gap filling, design flexibility. They are also preferred over thermal joining such as welding, brazing because they minimize secondary operations like grinding, polishing and do not distort parts.
High performance, long lasting, durable adhesive systems offer enhanced aesthetic properties in comparison to mechanical attachment. Continuous intimate bonded surfaces prevent stress concentration points and keep out contaminants, air, water, fluid intrusion which could lead to corrosion. They also adhere well to dissimilar metallic substrates without risking galvanic corrosion. Contour irregularities such as protrusions, punctures, scruffs, secondary pinching holes can be avoided, allowing smooth clean lines. Discoloration/fading from excess heat input from welding is prevented. Thin metals will not distort or oxidize from nonthermal adhesive curing. Additionally substrates can be painted before joining, ensuring aesthetic appearance of final assembly is not impaired.
It is important to note that select adhesive formulations have been engineered to resist chemical attack, abrasion/wear, water, erosion/corrosion, high/low temperatures, impact. They will not crack, lose strength, shrink, blister, delaminate, embrittle, caulk, yellow from exposure to rain, humidity, mold, sunlight, wind, salt spray, thermal cycling. Stability of adhesive bonded interfaces for porous/nonporous substrates is outstanding, even in aggressive environments.
