Automated Structural Bonding Systems for Graphite and Other High-Strength Composites

Structural bonding of reinforced plastics has been successfully utilized for ten years or more in a variety of automotive applications; such as, truck front-end assemblies, pickup box covers, utility vehicle tops, etc. Uses have been for relatively low-volume applications, and the adhesive bonding has been accomplished by manual application of the adhesive rather than with automated equipment.

With the emerging interest in utilizing reinforced plastics for applications on large-volume vehicles such as passenger cars and light trucks, it becomes necessary to develop ways of speeding up the adhesive bonding operation to keep up with assembly line requirements.

This paper will present our background and experience in structural bonding of reinforced plastics and discuss new technology in adhesives, application equipment, and high-strength composites for future uses in the automotive industry.