Henkel has introduced the new solvent-free and elastic adhesive, Loctite UK 2073-2173. The adhesive is based on two-component polyurethane (2K-PU) technology, designed to ensure high performance on various substrates in automotive applications.
Loctite UK 2073-2173 is primarily designed for elastic exterior bonding of automotive plastic parts, such as spoilers, tailgates, roof systems, bumpers, luggage racks, as well as dashboards and trim parts made of different kinds of plastics. The adhesive is specifically adapted for use on low surface energy substrates (LSE) and bonds reliably without applying a primer.
Henkel states UK 2073-2173 ensures good elastic adhesion with an elongation of 300% and also provides structural performance, enabling bonding of substrates with large differences in the coefficients of thermal expansion.
“Due to its versatility, elasticity and strength, Loctite UK 2073-2173 is ideal for exterior bonding applications. We are thus meeting the automotive industry's need for a reliable adhesive solution that can be easily applied to a broad range of substrates. Our innovative adhesive products are playing a major role in optimising manufacturing processes and providing high performance solutions,” says Markus Rößler, business development automotive components Europe for interior and exterior at Henkel.
For the precise assembly of large exterior plastic parts, adhesives need to possess fast cohesion build-up as well as a short open time. Henkel ensures that Loctite UK 2073-2173 fulfils these requirements. With three to six minutes, the open time of the new Loctite adhesive is tailored for the assembly of large components. After application, Loctite UK 2073-2173 cures at room temperature. To reduce cycle time, the curing process can be accelerated by increasing the temperature to 60°C – 70°C, at which the adhesive achieves handling strength after one minute.
“With the ability to use a single adhesive for all substrates, without applying a primer and with significantly reduced cycle times, we have achieved the everlasting goal of facilitating the production process for our customers worldwide.” adds Rainer Schönfeld, global market strategy director for exterior, powertrain, interior and chassis at Henkel.
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