Marine adhesives are classified by their immediate tack and application method. Contact adhesives are good for running repairs, while epoxy adhesives are best for projects requiring a correct fit. Both can bond various surfaces, but care must be taken to select the appropriate adhesive for the materials.
Marine adhesives are classified according to their immediate tack and the procedure used to apply them. They also differ in their ability to withstand a wide range of marine conditions. The two main types of marine adhesive are contact and epoxy.
Contact adhesives are a type of marine adhesive that immediately, on contact, adhere to the surface being glued. They start to harden quickly, so these types of adhesives are good for what’s known as “running repairs”; that is, repairs while the boat is away from its place of origin. Contact adhesives do not work well for repairs that require adjustment after the initial repair. For this reason, they should not be used for temporary bonuses.
Like marine adhesives in general, contact adhesives can generally withstand harsh environmental conditions. Some, but not all, contact adhesives can be used below the waterline, in conditions where the joint is continuously submerged. Many types of contact adhesive will soften or set at elevated temperatures, making this type of marine adhesive not ideal for use in very hot climates.
Epoxy adhesives are a type of marine adhesive consisting of two substances that are not adhesive separately, but become sticky when mixed. This type of marine adhesive takes time to harden, making it best for use on projects that may require replacement or moving parts to create the correct fit. The time it takes for epoxy adhesives to harden can usually be regulated by changing the temperature. Higher temperatures cause the epoxy to set faster.
Once epoxy adhesives harden, the bond they form is often much stronger than the bond formed by contact adhesives. The bond is also generally better able to withstand high temperatures without melting. While these resulting joints are highly durable, they can make parts attached with epoxy adhesives difficult to replace. They are also useful for filling holes and craters, and many can be used below the waterline. When using an epoxy-based marine adhesive on a flat surface, it’s helpful to use weights or a vise to hold the project together, as it will take a long time to dry.
Both contact adhesives and epoxy adhesives can be used to adhere a number of different surfaces together, such as fiberglass, wood, and plastic. However, care must be taken to select the appropriate adhesive for the materials to be bonded. Product labeling should be consulted for this information.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
