Are anaerobic adhesives the answer to better cleanability?

In the case of pumps, for example, many are cleaned-in-place, without disassembly. This often creates widespread issues, with cleaning fluids not reaching those ‘hard to hit’ areas on our process machinery. Contamination during the next phase of production is therefore more likely.

To combat the problem, manufacturers have begun to develop new models, which eliminate the small crevices where bacteria accumulates. But could using anaerobic adhesives provide a simpler, more cost-effective option to this on-going issue?

Hygienic design just the beginning

More emphasis is now being placed on prevention, such as minimising corrosion and leakage, with the hope that equipment will work better, for longer and help reduce the burden of maintenance.

Previously, vibration locking devices have been used to prevent the loosening of threaded fasteners, leading into a reduction in leaks. But although they have their advantages, none are fully able to eliminate leakage and corrosion. Here’s where adhesive threadlockers really add value.

Filling the gaps

Anaerobic adhesives are an excellent method of augmenting the seal or holding force of a mechanically joined assembly. They completely fill the gaps between mating surfaces and joints, curing at room temperature to form a hard-solid thermoset plastic.

Chemical resistant coatings are another means of preventing oil loss from seepage and are ideal for sealing casting parts where porous areas formed in the manufacturing process. Through coating the interior of a bearing frame during assembly, for example, the dangers of leaks are eliminated. Or, if you’re aware of where the leak points are, a wicking grade threadlocker is an excellent choice for creating an effective seal.

Unhygienic leaks are also a common challenge, particularly with pumps, with air space, once again, being the main culprit. As with threadlocking, there are a range of products to choose from – solvent-based compounds, PTFE tapes, and paste – but anaerobic adhesives truly have the edge.

Removing limitations

For years, conventional joining methods, although fairly successful, have come at high costs. But also, limitations. For example, welding is limited to metal-to-metal or specific plastic-to-plastic bonds. But by using adhesives, the scope of substrates is substantially extended to include plastic-to-metal, glass-to-plastic and rubber-to-metal. The possibilities are endless as they say.

The hygienic design and maintenance of our production equipment is clearly essential, and cleanability is highly relevant to all manufacturing and processing plants. So, as the quest continues for cleaner and more efficient manufacturing facilities, it seems that engineering adhesives have a vital role to play.

By choosing LOCTITE®’s range of innovative sealing products, maintenance engineers have the assurance that the products they use, are the same as those supplied by OEMs.