Adhesives, sealants and tape

An adhesive creates a load-bearing bond between two surfaces. A sealant fills a gap to stop oil, water or gas leaks and need not carry load. A threadlocker is an anaerobic compound that stops bolts loosening under vibration and also seals the thread.

Know both substrate materials, the gap, service temperature, contact media and whether it must be disassembled. Fixture and full cure times also set how long the line stays down. Always check the technical data sheet (TDS) for each product.

Yes. Most adhesives last around 12 to 24 months sealed in cool storage, and tapes lose tack when kept in heat and humidity. Check the manufacture date on the pack on receipt. KIT supplies CO/CQ on request.

Keep them dry, cool and out of direct sunlight, typically between 5 and 25 degrees C. Unopened cyanoacrylates can be refrigerated to extend life, but must reach room temperature before opening to avoid condensation. Apply first-in, first-out by manufacturing date.

Read the safety data sheet (SDS) before use to know the hazards and required protection. Many adhesives release solvent vapour or irritants, so provide good ventilation, nitrile gloves and safety glasses. Cyanoacrylate bonds skin very quickly; separate it with warm soapy water or acetone rather than pulling.

Most adhesives and tapes are designed to be applied between about 15 and 30 degrees C, and colder conditions slow curing and weaken initial tack. Silicones and cyanoacrylates need air moisture to cure, while two-part epoxies cure faster when warm. Condensation on the surface reduces adhesion markedly.