5.3 Understanding Adhesive Volumes

Understanding the volume of adhesive required for an application is an important aspect of the cost analysis when determining the overall cost/value of an application or assembly. Fortunately, the volume of adhesive, and subsequently the cost, can be easily calculated.

5.3.1 Calculating the Physical Volume of Cured Adhesive

The first step in any volume calculation is to consider the length, width and gap or height of the bond geometry; this will provide the basis for calculating the internal volume of the bond line. In addition to the internal volume, a factor of squeeze-out must be considered to ensure the adhesive has properly wetted the entirety of the bond line but is minimised to prevent waste. A factor of 10-20% of the internal volume should be added to account for squeeze-out. To minimise the volume of adhesive required, automated dispensing methods may be considered. For manual applications, a larger factor of wastage should be considered.