Structural Adhesive Film

AF 126 • AF 126 FR

- 12 -

Product Application

Surface Preparations

A thoroughly cleaned, dry, grease-free surface is essential for maximum performance.

Cleaning methods which will produce a break-free water film on metal surfaces are

generally satisfactory. Surface preparations should be fully evaluated with the adhesive,

especially if resistance to specific environments are anticipated.

Suggested Cleaning Procedures for Aluminum

Aluminum Sheet

1. Alkaline Degrease – Oakite No. 164 solution (9-11 oz/gallon water) at 190°F ± 10°F

(88°C ± 5°C) for 10-20 minutes. Rinse immediately in large quantities of cold running

water.

2. Optimized FPL Etch Solution (1 liter):

Material

Amount

Distilled Water

700 ml plus balance of liter (see below)

Sodium Dichromate

28 to 67.3 grams

Sulfuric Acid

287.9 to 310.0 grams

Aluminum Chips

1.5 grams/liter of mixed solution

To prepare 1 liter of this solution, dissolve sodium dichromate in 700 ml of distilled

water. Add sulfuric acid and mix well. Add additional distilled water to fill to 1 liter.

Heat mixed solution to 66 to 71°C (150 to 160°F). Dissolve 1.5 grams of 2024 bare

aluminum chips per liter of mixed solution. Gentle agitation will help aluminum dissolve

in about 24 hours.

To FPL etch panels, place them in the above solution at 150 to 160°F (66 to 71°C) for

12 to 15 minutes.

Note: Review and follow component supplier safety and handling recommendations

prior to preparation of this etch solution.

3. Rinse – Rinse panels in clear running water.

4. Dry – Air dry 15 minutes, force dry 10 minutes minimum at 140°F (60°C) maximum.

5. It is advisable to bond the freshly cleaned surfaces within 4 hours after surface

preparation.

Adhesive Layup

Care should be taken to avoid contaminating adhesive and cleaned aluminum by any

substance which will hinder wetting action of the film.

Film Application

1. Cut portion of film to be used from roll with protective liner in place.

2. Place film on the primed metal using the separating liner as a protective cover.

3. Roll film into position with a rubber roller insuring that no air is trapped between surface

and film.

4. Remove protective liner.

5. Assemble parts and cure.