The company is now supplying 3M Fastbond 100 spray adhesive to its non-disclosed but household name automotive sector customer, as it seeks to switch from solvent-based to water-based adhesives.
The spray adhesive is being used to affix both vinyl and leather upholstery on door cassettes, as well as to attach fabric around rear wheel arches across the manufacturer's model range.
Viking's managing director Colin Bennett explained: "As part of its ongoing duty of care commitment, the vehicle manufacturer contacted us direct to see if we could help them, as new, more stringent regulations facing the industry sector are increasing the pressure to reduce solvent use – and fire insurance rates are also increasing.
"Controlled spray patterns help minimise overspray and reduce clean-up afterwards. The adhesive also dries faster without solvent odour, helping to improve worker comfort and, as a direct result, productivity.
"The manufacturer in question said it was pleased with the results of initial trials and we are now hoping to cement our working partnership with them, as well as strengthening our foothold across the UK automotive industry in general with this and other specialist 3M products."
Viking, based in Keighley, West Yorkshire, conducted the trials, led by its technical specialist Craig Smith, in direct consultation with 3M, for whom it remains a strategic partner.
