1.1 Introduction

Foreword:
This section outlines the key activities that have to be planned in order to manufacture an effective bonded joint having good long-term stability, using either different substrates or identical substrates.

In some cases, other specific aspects may have to be taken into account. It is recommended to consult the technical literature or a reputable institution for further advice.

Information:
For safety reasons, the design of components to be bonded should be evaluated by a competent testing organization.

  • A unique feature of bonded joints is that they cannot be fully tested by non-destructive means. For this reason, adhesive bonding is termed a “special process”.
  • This means that the product quality cannot be “tested” and so must be produced.
  • This principle requires efficient quality management, suitable Quality assurance measures and trained staff.
  • Quality management starts with the planning activities for a bonded joint and continues right through the life of the bonded product.

Objectives of quality assurance:

  • Zero-error production
  • Customer satisfaction
  • Quality statements about the product
  • Employee-awareness and controlled actions of employees
  • Traceability / fault analysis

Quality assurance measures in the bonding process:

Concept: Split the bonding process into individual steps

  • Quality assurance by carrying out all required steps
  • Observe the correct sequence of steps
  • Verification of each step by carrying out suitable Quality assurance measures
  • Additional supra-process Quality assurance measures
  • Controlled information flows (in the process direction and backwards)
  1. Draw up a list of requirements (specifications)
  2. Preselect the adhesive + surface treatment
  3. Determine the load limit of the joint
  4. Optimise the bonded joint until: load x safety factor <
  5. load limit