When it comes to building and assembling electronic devices, there are numerous ways to affix parts or hold components in place – screws, brackets, staples, bolts, retaining rings, pins, and the list goes on. While these mechanical fasteners can be effective, they also add complexity, cost, weight, and other factors to the product.
A viable alternative that may address many of your design challenges is adhesive. The science of adhesives has advanced tremendously over the past few decades. Now, for applications that have previously required mechanical fasteners, the right adhesive can result in a lighter, smoother, and smaller solution.
Incorporating adhesives into your product can offer you more design flexibility without sacrificing performance. Here are some advantages that high-quality adhesives provide over mechanical fasteners.
Adhesives used in electronic devices can be broken into three main categories: pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA), structural adhesives, and non-structural adhesives. Pressure sensitive adhesives are what Tapecon has expertise in and utilizes for better product solutions.
Pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA). Often used in medical devices, PSA have unique viscoelastic properties and require pressure during application to ensure a quality bond.
Some low surface energy materials
Bond materials:
Bond materials:
With so many kinds of adhesives available, it may seem daunting to determine the right option for your product. That's where the experts at Tapecon can help. In order to recommend the ideal pressure sensitive adhesive solution, we'll consider the function of the product, the environment in which it will be used, the material being used and their surface energy, the design specifications and strength requirements, and many other factors.
Switching from mechanical fasteners can be an effective way to improve your product design and reduce cost at the same time.
At Tapecon, we have over 100 years of experience helping customers solve their complex product challenges. Learn more about our contract manufacturing and assembling capabilities.