The transformation of the world’s vehicles from internal combustion engines (ICEs) to electric vehicles (EVs) relies in large part on what holds the vehicles together—namely, adhesives.

Called thermoset polyesters, these materials are glass fiber-reinforced unsaturated polyesters. They are also often referred to as “sheet molding compounds” (SMCs), “fiber-reinforced plastics” (FRPs), or simply “fiberglass.”

The methods for dispensing adhesives, epoxies, grease, silicone, oils, sealants, and a multitude of other assembly fluids cover a wide spectrum of techniques—from manual applications like squeeze bottles, toothpicks, and hand-plunger syringes to semi-automated tabletop dispensing robots. Each dispensing method presents unique challenges as manufacturers attempt to scale the sophistication of their fluid dispensing processes to meet requirements for quality, volume throughput, and cost efficiency.

Ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diode (LED) curing technology offers significant advantages compared to traditional mercury UV curing. As a result, adhesive bonding, sealing, and coating processes in factory assembly lines are rapidly upgrading to UV LED curing technology.

We’re focusing on adhesives in assembly applications in this issue of ASI, and it’s always exciting to see the industry’s development of new technologies in this sector, as well as the increasing willingness of OEMs and others to accept them.

Vehicle manufacturers are improving fuel economy while reducing emissions by lightening the overall weight through material replacement. Using thermoplastics and adhesives instead of traditional screws and metals create less weight.

I have worked with companies that manufacture superglue and polyurethane glue, both of which are single-component, no-mix adhesives. Superglue, which is the common term for cyanoacrylate adhesive, has been around for about 60 years. In contrast, the polyurethanes are about 20 years old in the retail market and somewhat older in professional woodworking. I admit to using both types of adhesive regularly.

Have you ever run your hot-melt tank above the adhesive manufacturer’s recommended operating temperature? Did someone on the line ever forget to turn the equipment off at the end of the day? What about drips on the tank lid, or that one spot on the nozzle that always seems to collect buildup?