Feature

Hot melt adhesive delivers reworkability and waterproofing for smart devices

Dow Corning has introduced its EA-4600 hot melt room-temperature vulcanization (RTV) black adhesive for improved assembly of consumer electronics and other demanding high-volume manufacturing operations.

29/03/2015 10:31:00

EA-4600 is formulated to dispense easily and achieve instant green strength, which allows electronic assemblies to be handled immediately after its application. The reactive material that can be applied neatly as a liquid melt in very thin, <0.5mm-wide, bonding lines. It cools quickly and cures at room temperature to become a visco-elastic polymer that provides strong, flexible, primer-less adhesion to common plastic and metal substrates.

The material offers extended service temperatures from -40°C to +150°C. It will soften when exposed to high temperatures, but revert to its typical properties after cooling. Unlike conventional polyurethane-based hot melt solutions, EA-4600 incorporates ultraviolet (UV) markers to support automated UV inspection of finished parts.

It can also be easily reworked within 24 hours of application. Once fully cured, EA-4600 Hot Melt Adhesive delivers outstanding, durable protection against chemicals, water and dust to enhance the reliability and performance of high-value electronics assemblies.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.