Adhesives - ‘the manufacturing alternative’

Its threadlocker products, for example, are stated to be "replacements for lock washers, spring washers, and other thread fixings. This is a far more efficient method of preventing bolts from loosening over time and also is far cheaper than mechanical methods", says Axil's managing director Mick McMullen. The company also highlights its ultra-violet adhesives which cure in three seconds. "The 'cure on demand' technology of this product means that it will not dry until required as the cure is caused by exposure to certain wavelengths of ultra-violet light." For the "ultimate in adhesive strength" Axil is promoting its toughened acrylic/methacrylate adhesives that offer bond strengths in excess of welded joints, with little or no requirement for surface preparation. Mick McMullen believes that "as chemical technology improves more and more companies are going to be able to make impressive savings in their processes".