Thread: Another problem for the experts

Hi Adam,

We use this stuff like its going out of fashion. We use in on our fridges because it remains elastic even in -25 degrees. We also use it in our hot chicken cases for the same reason, but when hot as well. In terms of tensile strength its academic really. I know that if you clean the surfaces properly before application (there is a special primer as well, but we do not use it), you will not be able to separate the two panels. Our Frigies have to use knives to cut through in order to separate panels and this is after 15 years of service. The only thing you need to remember is that surface area is where the strength comes from. I tell you what I would put this stuff up against rivets any day (no rivets!)

Just as a matter of interest we used one of these sorts of products as a 'living hinge' application for one project. Worked extremely well.

Thanks Ian, that what I wanted to hear.

The tech guy that eamiled me also told me of 2 other products I should be using before applying the sikaflex. One is a cleaner and the other a primer. He said the same as you, if you use the product as stated with the primer you will never move it without cutting.

As for surface area, that could be my downfall. The larger panels will be 1800x600. There is a 50mm frame around the edge and i will have 2 25mm studs at equal distances along.

Thats plenty of area! You should not have any problems.

Just another thought. I used Sikaflex on my rock rail/side steps. I applied a single bead inbetween the rocker panels and the rail. I had to do some work on the rails to add a checker step surface so had to remove them, This was a bloody nightmare. I removed all the screws I had used and tried to pry the bar off. It just would not move. I jumped on it, jacked the car up with it, stuck knife blades in between to try and pry it, all to no avail. I ended up having to painfully slice through between the panels until all the skaflex had been cut through. So for what you are going to do, not a problem!