Question about FRP bonding method

[ExpoMike]

Hi all,

Need to pick brains for a moment. My M1010 project is slowly moving along and I am getting close to the point I need to attach the inner wall panels. I have researched a few things but really don't have a clear winner on what to use.

I am using .090" FRP panels to do the ceiling and wall panels. This will be mounted to aluminum studs, 16" on center. I am using an aluminum extrusion profile that will join the panels at the joints, which will add stiffness to the FRP as it spans between studs.

I have been looking at 3M VHB tape or Sikaflex adhesive. The wall panels I am not as much worried about as the ceiling panels. For the ceiling, I am going to rip my 4x9 FRP panels in half, so with the extrusions, there is only 2 feet between extrusions that the tape/adhesive needs to hold. The channel in the extrusion will hold the span between the studs. The inside will get hot as it sits (as cars do) so this is a consideration as I don't want it to de-laminate and cause waves.

My question is, which is likely to be the better choice, 3M VHB (looking at # 4952) or Sikaflex (# 221) or something else?

Here is a pic of the extrusion that will run the full length of the box, making a "grid pattern" across the studs. The large surface on the studs, the narrow part exposed inside and the FRP held in the groove.



Thanks for any input.

 

[bobakers]

Hi
If I've read the above correctly the FRP will be bonded to the studs and the extrusions connect the FRP between the studs. if this is the case I would use the VHB in small sections to both hold the FRP in place till the sikoflex dries and provide a sufficient clearance for the sikoflex.
I have used both sikoflex 11FC and Wurth KD Bond adhesive. and found both to be excellent products.
Regards
Bob

 

[Ramdough]

I have a buddy that used to build elevator panels. At first he swore by vhb, but after a while he said it was pretty finicky. He said if you did not get your prep just right, it would over time fail.

Based on his comments, I would only use vhb as a temporary method to hold stuff while the sika adhesive cures. Or only use sika with some bother way to hold it.


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[ExpoMike]

Okay thanks all!!! Great suggestions on using VHB just to hold while the Sika cures.

 

[WanderingBison]

… and provide a sufficient clearance for the sikoflex…

My understanding is that one of the key benefits of the VHB is that is allows the appropriate gap/spacing for the Sikaflez - way cleaner and easier than using washers which is also often recommended.


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