Copper Glues

One of the most important aspects of choosing an adhesive for an application is considering the substrates you are bonding. Different adhesives have different bonding capabilities, so it is important to use an adhesive that matches your material. Copper is one such type of substrate that can easily be bonded with adhesives if you use the right copper glue.

More About Copper (Cu)

Copper is a highly versatile metal known for its great electrical and thermal conductivity. On top of this, it is also corrosion resistant and ductile. With these many beneficial properties, copper is commonly used in applications like construction, plumbing, electrical applications, and more. There are also several alloys made with copper with similar properties, including brass and bronze.

On the downside, copper can be expensive and heavier than other metals. It also oxidizes when exposed to air, so it is prone to color changes after time and may have a limited life span depending on the application.

Gluing Copper

Compared to some other materials, using an adhesive for copper bonding is relatively easy. Especially if you are bonding copper to copper, there are several adhesives available on the market.

Along with picking the right adhesive for copper, the right surface preparation is required to create lasting bonds. This process will vary from adhesive to adhesive, but it usually requires removing oil, grease, and other contaminants to start. Abrading the surface or using a chemical treatment of nitric acid, water, and ferric chloride are also common practices to make the substrates more compatible to bonding. The manufacturer will usually include specific surface preparation instructions.

On top of following the manufacturer's instructions for surface preparation, you will always want to follow proper safety precautions and storage recommendations for the best results.

While generally these products are good for gluing copper, the capabilities of these adhesives vary from one product to another. It is important to check a product's technical datasheet to ensure it is compatible with copper substrates or speak with an adhesive expert for more information.

Applications

Copper is commonly used in various industrial settings and comes in numerous forms. Copper pipes, wires, tubes, sheets, and plates may all be used in:

• Plumbing

• Electrical components

• HVAC systems

• Industrial machinery

• Kitchen equipment

Regardless of the specific application, getting a strong and durable bond is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Copper Glue

Picking a glue for copper substrates is only part of the battle. The adhesives must also be able to withstand the environment. Different bonds are exposed to different elements or temperatures, so while there are many adhesives for copper, there may not be as many that are compatible with your specific bonding conditions. You will want to test the adhesive to ensure it will create lasting bonds in the environment it will be exposed to.

Other factors to consider when picking a copper adhesive glue are the production and application process. What surface preparation is required? What is the open time? Is it compatible with your existing setup? The answers to these questions can help lead you to a product that will fit seamlessly into your current production and limit delays.

Finally, you will want to consider budget. Finding a balance between performance and cost can be the key to your company's success. Together all these factors can help you find the best copper adhesive for your needs.

Need Help?

Not everyone is an expert on adhesives, and that is okay. At Hotmelt.com, we are here to help. We carry a wide selection of metal bonding glues and have over fifty years of industry experience. Our team is happy to supply personalized product recommendations for your specific needs. This way you can get the best copper glue for your application without the stress of wondering if you made the right decision.