Product Introduction
We developed 3M™ Scotch-Weld™ Structural Adhesive EC-1838 B/A as a two-part, 75°F curing adhesive for bonding polyester and metal panels to themselves and each other. This durable adhesive provides a high shear strength and excellent environmental resistance.
3M™ Scotch-Weld™ Structural Adhesive EC-1838 B/A provides good shear and peel strength along with good impact resistance for reliability and durability. Its 60 minute work life provides ample time for adjusting parts for a precise fit. This unique epoxy adhesive can be used to replace mechanical fasteners, screws, rivets, and spot welds, making it an ideal formula for polyester and metal surfaces. EC-1838 B/A starts as a high viscosity paste for easy, controlled dispensing that won’t drip, sag, or migrate on vertical or overhead surfaces. It can be applied with a spatula, trowel, or automated dispensing equipment. Flow characteristics are good, and suitable two-part mixing and metering equipment is also available for high-volume applications.
3M™ epoxy adhesives are part of the class of adhesives called “structural adhesives,” which also includes polyurethane and acrylic adhesives. Epoxy adhesives are typically formulated with reactive components (Base and Accelerator) that cure when mixed to form a solid plastic material. 3M provides epoxy adhesives in multiple formats to support your processing needs:
Two Part — In this format, the Base and Accelerator are stored separately, enabling the adhesive to have a long shelf life even when stored at room temperature. These materials are available in duo-pak cartridges for use with the 3M™ EPX™ Applicator System, enabling you to simultaneously meter, mix, and apply two-part adhesives. For larger-scale operations, you can purchase these in bulk. Because these parts are mixed at the point of use, you can reduce waste by saving non-mixed unused material for a later job.
One Part — In this format, we do the mixing for you and ship it frozen. You store it in a freezer, then remove and thaw it when you’re ready to use it.
Adhesive Films — In this one-part format, we not only do the mixing for you but also turn it into a film that can be specifically cut to size and placed into your bond line. We offer a variety of films in different weights/thicknesses and supports. These films must be stored frozen.
In a two-part epoxy adhesive, once the two parts are mixed in their specified ratio, they begin the curing process and offer a limited working time where the adhesive can be applied and the two surfaces positioned as needed. Similarly, in a one-part adhesive, there is a limited out time after which material is thawed during which it must be used. This work life or out time lasts anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours or longer.
In general, epoxy adhesives provide high shear and peel strengths and have good environmental resistance. These adhesives are preferred for their ease of use, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance. Depending on the formulation, epoxy adhesives can be flexible or rigid, transparent or opaque, quick setting or slow setting, high flow or low flow, room temperature or elevated temperature cure. Epoxy adhesives are among the strongest adhesives available, making them well-suited for jobs requiring strength and durability.
3M™ Scotch-Weld™ Structural Adhesive EC-1838 B/A Features
- Two-part formula cures at room temperature (75°F) to a strong, durable bond in 24-48 hours
- Unique formula adhesive bonds to composites and metal panels
- Non-sag paste won’t run, drip, or migrate on vertical or overhead surfaces
- Durable adhesive provides a high shear strength and excellent environmental resistance
3M™ Scotch-Weld™ Structural Adhesive EC-1838 B/A Applications
- Bonding polyester panels to metal panels and other surfaces
- Replacing mechanical fasteners, screws, rivets, and spot welds
- High-shear strength applications requiring good peel and impact resistance
- Applications involving vertical or overhead surfaces where sag resistance is critical
- High-volume production processes using two-part mixing and metering equipment
About Prostech
Prostech offers specialty materials (adhesives, tapes, thermal interface materials, insulating materials, sealants, PCB protection materials, …) along with manufacturing solutions. We proudly serve a wide range of industries and are an authorized distributor for leading global manufacturers of industrial materials and equipment. Our product range is designed to deliver customized solutions that address each customer’s unique needs.
With years of experience and a successful project history, we are confident in our ability to provide comprehensive material solutions. These solutions effectively tackle the challenges manufacturers face. To explore our full product catalog, simply click here. Our dedicated team is ready to assist with:
- Provide quotation, sample, TDS/MSDS, and technical consultation
- Testing sample quality and verifying product compatibility in our laboratory
- Customizing material formulas for special applications
- Adapting product sizes, quantities, and packaging to meet specific needs
- Offering expert advice on suitable equipment and automation processes
- Delivering technical training and on-site support for optimal product use
Moreover, Prostech ensures the safe and accurate global delivery of all materials, including “dangerous goods”, in compliance with legal regulations. For personalized technical support or to receive a quotation, please contact us today.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Adhesive Type | Epoxy |
| Container Size (Imperial) | 1 qt, 4 oz |
| Container Size (Metric) | 0.95 L, 118.29 mL |
| Cure Rate | 7 days |
| Cure Temperature | Room Temperature |
| Product Form | Kit, Kit(set) |
