How to glue steel
Bonding Steel
Steel is a chemical alloy of iron with other elements, most commonly carbon. It is widely used in many industries, with pipes, plates, screws, nails, and bolts often made of steel.
It is perhaps the most commonly used material in machines and tools worldwide due to its many properties—especially its wear and impact resistance.
Historically, the steel industry played a crucial role in the creation of the European common market through the establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community.
Bonding
For optimal adhesion, the surfaces should always be cleaned before bonding begins.
Various types of adhesives adhere well to steel. When selecting the appropriate adhesive, several considerations should be made:
- What material is the steel being bonded to?
- How large is the task?
- What curing time and open time are required?
Therefore, it is a good idea to contact us for further advice to ensure the project starts with the right adhesive.
Many instant adhesives/cyanoacrylates (super glues) are excellent for bonding steel, especially when bonding it to a plastic or elastomer, such as EPDM.
These adhesives offer high strength and extremely fast curing.
Methyl methacrylate adhesives (MMA) can also be the right choice. They offer higher heat resistance than cyanoacrylates. However, if bonding steel to rubber or a similar material, MMA may not be ideal—cyanoacrylate is preferred in that case.
If a flexible silicone adhesive is chosen, it is important not to use an acidic silicone, as it may damage the steel surface.
Silicone adhesives are generally very heat-resistant.
The strongest adhesive for metals is undoubtedly a 1-component or 2-component epoxy. These adhesives are highly durable and do not shrink or deform under high loads.
However, epoxy is not ideal if the steel is to be bonded to a more flexible material.
Bonding steel parts instead of welding has several advantages:
It's easier to separate or modify the bond later, and the result is aesthetically cleaner since no warping or discoloration occurs.
Additionally, bonding does not heat the steel, preserving its full properties.
Contact us
Do you have questions about bonding or need advice on choosing the right adhesive for your application? Our experts are ready to help you achieve reliable and durable bonding.
We offer solutions with adhesive products that are tailored to meet your specific needs.
Contact us today for professional advice and support.
Call us at +45 66171802 to speak directly with one of our specialists, or send us an email at info@hojstrup.dk.
We ensure that you receive the best guidance and support for your bonding projects.
