Storing and handling adhesives

Generally the storage and handling advice for our different adhesive products is similar. There may be slight nuances between the product ranges, dependent on any specific requirements, but in general our recommendations are:

• Store in original sealed packaging

• Open only immediately prior to use

• Keep out of direct sunlight

• Do not freeze

Using our adhesives

Always consult the SDS before use, even if you are used to handling other adhesives or similar chemistries.

Double check that the packaging is in good condition and everything you’ve received is as expected.

If you have any queries about the application of the adhesive, first consult the TDS of the specific product. Our Technical Support team is here to help if you would like further advice.

Our adhesives are for commercial/industrial use only, and should only be used by trained and competent personnel.

Crestabond structural adhesives

Storage

The majority of our Crestabond range must be stored below 23^oC. Ideally, it is recommended to store between 2^oC (36^oF) and 10^oC (73^oF). The exception is Crestabond PP-04 which should be stored between 5^oC (41^oF) and 8^oC (46^oF). Exposure to any temperatures higher than this will cause the product to thicken and become unusable.

Handling and use

Bring Crestabond gradually to workshop temperature 18^oC – 25^oC (64^oF – 77^oF) before use. Do not use heat guns or heated belts/jackets as these can cause localised heating leading to a complete loss of reactivity and potential impact on the properties of the cured product.

Dispensing from cartridges

• Consult SDS before use

• Check that the cartridge has not been damaged in any way. i.e. that there are no punctures or splits in the cartridge, or that there is no leakage. If you see any material leaking out the back of the cartridge during use, it may suggest that there is a blockage leading to an increase in pressure and we would recommend to stop dispensing the cartridge for your safety

• Insert the cartridge into your dispenser of choice

• Recommend “purging” some of the material on to a non-bonding surface before attaching the static mixer to ensure both components flow freely

• Attach the appropriate static mixer and dispense again until the two components mix together to form one solid colour

• You can now use the adhesive to complete your bonding application

Discover how to use a Crestabond cartridge below:

For bulk application, the adhesive and activator components will be supplied separately and will need to be either mixed by hand, or by the use of dedicated dispensing equipment.

Be sure to take note of the recommended mix ratio (by weight or by volume) of the product, displayed on the TDS. Only by adhering to this mixing ratio will you fulfil the stated properties of the product. If unsure, please contact our Technical Support team for advice.

Crestomer structural adhesives

Storage

Crestomer Urethane Acrylate structural adhesives should be stored between 2°C – 23°C (36°F – 73°F) in the original unopened container in a dry, well ventilated place. Protect from freezing and direct sunlight. Avoid contact with oxidising agents. Exposure to temperatures outside these conditions will affect shelf life. Ideally containers should be opened only immediately prior to use.

Handling and use

The majority of Crestomer structural adhesives are supplied in bulk format in either 200 litre drums or 20 litre kegs. Crestomer adhesives can be applied by hand using a spatula or other suitable tool, or through the use of suitable dispensing equipment. We recommend you check with our Technical Support team for advice on dispensing equipment.

Only a suitable catalyst will be required to be added to pre-accelerated Crestomer products. Depending on the product, this will be achieved with a medium reactivity MEKP catalyst or, in the case of our Crestomer Advantage range, a Benzoyl Peroxide catalyst.

When using our Crestomer Advantage adhesive in cartridges, the catalyst paste is already pre-measured and no hand mixing is required. Follow the same steps to dispense a Crestomer Advantage cartridge as described in the Crestabond “Handling and use” section.

Remember to consult the SDS for the product you are using before handling to ensure that you are familiar with any precautions you may need to take.

Crestafix bonding pastes

Storage

Crestafix adhesives should be stored between 2^oC – 23^oC (36^oF – 77^oF) in the original, unopened container in a dry, well-ventilated place. Protect from freezing and direct sunlight. Avoid contact with oxidising agents.

Handling and use

Crestafix adhesives are supplied pre-accelerated and require only the addition of a suitable catalyst to start the curing reaction. Like Crestomer adhesives, the recommended catalyst is usually a medium reactivity MEKP. Addition levels of this may vary depending on the properties you are aiming to achieve. If in doubt, please check the TDS of the particular product you are interested in or contact our Technical Support team who will be happy to help you.