As consumers increasingly prefer smaller, more portable, wearable electronic devices, assembling the intricate components can prove challenging. This challenge is further compounded when considering skin contact material requirements and the bonding issues these materials can pose. Fortunately for a wearable electronic device manufacturer, Born2Bond™ Ultra HV was able to address a bonding challenges while increasing design opportunities overall.
A wearable electronic device manufacturer was using a cured silicone material for a fitness tracking component. While silicone was chosen because it addressed skin contact requirements (biocompatibility, sweat and odour resistant), bonding the silicone to polycarbonate was seemingly impossible due to its low surface energy. The company tried many adhesive technologies and invested significant time and resources to solving the problem. However, nothing it tried worked for the manual application processes. It was beginning to look like the company would need to forego the entire project.
After trialling suggested products across multiple departments, the company agreed that our Born2Bond Ultra HV cyanoacrylate adhesive and primer provided unmatched adhesion compared to any other technology tried. In addition to bonding the initial component together, this adhesive offered high bond performance for other component assembly applications.
Through this trial, it was clear that not only did Born2Bond Ultra HV solve the initial bonding problem, but it also opened up the opportunity for other design and bonding possibilities not previously considered. This is because Born2Bond Ultra HV is based on a fast bonding, formulated instant adhesive technology designed specifically for challenging, ‘by the dot’ assembly needs. In addition to bonding silicone to polycarbonate, the adhesive needed to work well for very small, precise and fast manual application methods.
Since implementing Born2Bond Ultra HV across its production lines, the manufacturer has been able to increase precise application capabilities due to long tip applicator; enhance overall product aesthetics given ‘by the dot’ application; improve capacity due to rapid, 15 second fixture time; heighten aesthetics on black substrates via low blooming characteristics. The manufacturer was also able to experience the product’s value without having to invest funds in any equipment or increase manufacturing space.
The manufacturer found that the product worked best with a Born2Bond Primer for bonding silicone and seamlessly integrated into the production line processes.
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
