Are VHB tapes and structural adhesives better than mechanical fixing?

VHB tapes are relatively quick and easy to apply to prepared surfaces, but are unsuitable where post-painting processes are required as heat and solvents will affect them. Structural adhesives perform well but typically require components to be clamped together during their cure time slowing process times likely to result in higher volumes of ‘Work in Progress (WIP)’. The use of adhesive bonding often results is a stronger, weatherproof join where the load is more evenly distributed.

Although often visible, mechanical fixings benefit by good alignment and faster process times due to the self-jigging capabilities. They are not reliant on clean, dry prepared surfaces, survive post processes such as painting and powder coating better and are the most suitable fixing method for use on site. Typically mechanical fixings are more cost effective.