Metal Bonding

Metal Bonding

Metal bonding is the process of permanently connecting a metallic component, called a substrate to any rubber material. This process uses many different synthetic adhesive primers and top coats to effectively seal these two materials together. Literally any metal is capable of being bonded with rubber substances, as long as it can handle the high heat and psi of the bonding process. Originally, only grades of steel, such as stainless steel were used to fabricate metal bonded to rubber products. Today beryllium, aluminum, titanium, brass and copper all types of metals used often in various industries. Aluminum bonding is particularly common because of its low cost and light weight, especially noticeable when being compared to steel. However, aluminum retains the strength and bond quality of steel. Bonding rubber to metal creates many different industrial products, including vibration dampeners, rubber lined rollers, engine mounts, gaskets, reinforced tires, surgical instruments, bearings, conveyor belts, electrical cables and rubber lined tanks and pipes. The medical, automotive, industrial machinery, construction, aerospace, engineering, electrical and plumbing industries all use many bonded metal products everyday. Since so many different metals are available to bond, choosing the right metal is based on the necessary strength and durability requirements for the specific product and its applications.

These constructions come in many different sizes, and may be as small as a fastener or large as a bridge structural component. While bonded metal products very in shape, size and application, the process of bonding rubber to metal for all products is the same. After the metal substrate has been formed, the next step is to thoroughly clean the surface with a blaster and degreaser, to ensure there are no leftover substances, dust or grime from the fabrication process. A clean, smooth surface is necessary for a tight, permanent seal to develop between the metal and rubber material. Next, some metals are heat treated, especially those that will be bonded with silicon. The bonding agents, which consist of a primer and topcoat, are then evenly applied to the metal surface. A molding process is used to adhere the uncured rubber material to the metal substrate. As the rubber dries around the metal, a tight, sealed bond is formed between the two substances. In all, this process can take over an hour to complete, depending on heat treatment and the time it takes for the rubber to cure. Metal bonding is not confined to just rubber-it can be effectively adhered with glass, other metal and plastics.