Stainless Steel Adhesives

Stainless steel, also known as inox steel, is a popular steel alloy known for its smooth aesthetic. There are several different grades of stainless steel that can vary in composition, but in general, stainless steel has a high chromium content and low carbon content. Compared to mild steel, stainless steel is known for its excellent resistance to corrosion, but it may be less malleable and more expensive.

Bonding Stainless Steel

Adhesives are a lighter and more aesthetically pleasing way to bond stainless steel compared to welding or using mechanical fasteners. Additionally, gluing stainless steel with an adhesive is generally not that difficult unless it has a mirror finish. This smooth and glossy finish can lower the surface energy of the steel and make it much more difficult to bond. In this case, great surface preparation and the right stainless steel adhesive are a must.

Stainless Steel Applications

Because of its resistance to corrosion and great strength, stainless steel is used for a wide range of applications. While high-end kitchen appliances are notable, stainless steel is also often used in medical equipment, building construction, bridges, automobiles, food equipment, and much more.

How to Bond Stainless Steel Successfully

Bonding stainless steel can be easy if you complete the right surface preparation, and you use a glue for stainless steel. To get the best bond, you should always follow the instructions laid out by the adhesive’s manufacturer.

Surface preparation of stainless steel usually involves cleaning the substrate with isopropyl alcohol to remove grease, dust, or other contaminants. Especially if the stainless steel has a mirror finish, you will need to scuff up the surface before applying the stainless steel adhesive glue. This abrasion creates more texture on the surface for the adhesive to grab. Because of the hard surface, sandblasting is usually more effective than using sandpaper or steel wool. It also does not involve the use of heat which could negatively impact the surface properties of the metal. Once complete, the substrate should be cleaned again to remove loose debris left from the abrasion process.

Cure times will vary from product to product, and different adhesives may have different curing processes. The stainless steel adhesives we recommended above can cure at room temperature.

Safety Tips & Handing Instructions

When working with adhesives, it is always important to follow proper safety and handling instructions. Each product should have its own safety data sheet that outlines these specifications.

Manufacturers typically recommend wearing protective eyewear, clothing, and gloves when working with adhesives for metal. In many cases, you should also work in a well-ventilated space or wear a facemask to avoid breathing in too many fumes. Store the product according to the manufacturer’s instruction to avoid premature curing and wasted product.

Let Us Help

There is no single best glue for stainless steel, but we want to help you find the right one for your needs. Contact our team today to get a personalized product recommendation based on your specific application, budget, and manufacturing needs.