New process technology developed by industrial adhesives manufacturer DELO combines adhesive dispensing and pre-activation in a single process step. Activation on the flow provides users with new options for designing their products and processes while reducing costs and carbon dioxide emissions.

The method is ideal for bonding and encapsulating temperature-sensitive electronic components, as the adhesive is already irradiated during the dispensing process, which starts the curing reaction even before the adhesive meets the component. After the combined process step, the components can be joined. Another unique feature of the technology is that the exposed adhesive areas can be additionally irradiated and fixed after joining. This provides immediate initial strength, preventing the adhesive from flowing outSource: DELO and the components from slipping while allowing them to be further processed right away. The adhesive cures reliably to final strength whether or not there is additional light fixation. No additional process steps are needed, even in undercuts and shadowed areas.

The one-component adhesives, developed specifically for activation on the flow, are based on epoxy resin. DELO KATIOBOND FA adhesives contain two different initiators that react to different wavelengths and initiate curing in a dual-initiator system that makes the optional light fixation step possible. The adhesives are available with different mechanical properties and are highly resistant to media and temperature in the cured state.

DELO has also developed an appropriate device to deploy with the new process: DELO-ACTIVIS 600. It is made up of two subunits, one for dispensing and one for irradiation. Dispensing is done on a volumetric basis, with flow rate and quantity defined according to process requirements. As the one-component adhesive passes through the mixing tube, it is irradiated by integrated DELOLUX 503 curing lamps. The mixing coil ensures uniform activation of the entire adhesive volume. DELO-ACTIVIS 600 can be used as a stand-alone device or integrated into existing production systems.