How strong is Sikaflex?

[Bonzo]

Originally Posted by Enoch

Thanks to all, it looks like that is the stuff to go for. On reflection I think I should have done the job with steel so I could have welded it but I will go with the sikaflex and ratchet straps, I will fold the metal under the frame so I can pout in some hidden rivets. Thanks again guys, I love you all
Enoch.

You are most welcome mate .... If all else fails .... Give me a shout & i'll come up to sit my lardy ass on it untill the adhesive sets

[Davey]

There are several versions of Sikaflex designed for different types of job. Some are just sealants (bloody strong sealants) and others are adhesive sealants (very bloody strong adhesive sealants). I use Sikaflex on a regular basis, either 221 or 521 dependent on the job in hand but to be honest either will hold anything to anything if the prep is done proper like . If you're sticking alli then it needs to be ultra clean so stainless steel wire brush the areas to be bonded first then chemically clean with a solvent, then apply the Sikaflex and finally fit the panel. It will be a huge help if you can preform the panel before applying the Sikaflex as it will reduce the need for fixtures to hold it in place while the adhesive cures (can be up to 48 hours dependent on type and temperature/humidity). PU adhesives like Sikaflex are moisture sensitive so damping the glue with a water spray can speed up curing times.

Google Sikaflex to find the best one for your needs.

D.

[Enoch]

Thanks for all the replies guys, I will get the panels bent as close as I can, clean everything thoroughly and then clamp it all up for a couple of days to make sure it is all dry. Thanks Ronnie for the offer of coming round and sitting on it but given Andy's comments about how well it sticks to skin I am not sure this is a good idea. I was thinking of some sort of bonnet ornament but perhaps something slightly more subtle than a large bloke would be more appropriate:-) Besides I can't afford to feed you and I'm sure the IVA inspector would have sarcastic comment to make about vision being obscured. Do you have any sharp projections? On second thoughts, don't answer that
Enoch.

[Bonzo]

Originally Posted by Enoch

Do you have any sharp projections? On second thoughts, don't answer that

Enoch.

I am sure it will go well once you get into the swing of it, alloy is quite easy to form once you get the knack

Yes I do have a projection .... I think it is IVA friendly though .... Not protruding more than 5mm from the surface & in any event, it has a nice radius

[Enoch]

You're a bad man Ronnie That's why I like you.
I have found a Sikaflex equivalent, looking at the respective datasheets it has the same hardness when dry and the same strength, it's available in white, grey and black and it's a hell of a lot cheaper. It's called Polyflex. Like Sikaflex there are different grades available, they do LM and HM which are equivalents to 221 and 251 they are both high modulus moisture drying polyurethane preperations. If you search for it on the net you can find the datasheets and stockists that do it for about 3 quid for 300ml. One seller on ebay does two tubes for £4.50.
Hope that's of use to somebody.
Enoch.

[adrianreeve]

Exactly what I've used Enoch - it's good stuff, and as you have seen, cheap!

Cheers

Adrian

[Enoch]

I have just this afternoon put my scuttle together, after about 2 hours I would describe the parts as "stuck". Bleedin ell that stuff is strong! It seems to have bonded very well to the alli, I did not use any special cleaner, just gave it a good clean with some solvent and a quick rub down to roughen the surface a bit. I found it quite difficult to make the scuttle as I had to call on skills I have not used for a very long time and that I was never brilliant at in the first place. I am now quite pleased with the end result, I will update my web site soon with photos. Thanks again to all that offered advice. And, if you are tight like me the Polyflex seems to be a great low priced alternative to Sikaflex.
Enoch.