Film Adhesive - Supported vs Unsupported

[midsidenode]

Something that I've never had a good grasp on was how to determine when I would need a supported or un-supported film adhesive. Is the carrier only used to maintain a consistent bondline thickness? When should one choose a knit vs random carrier?

thanks,
msn

 

[SWComposites]

handling supported adhesive is much easier.
bondline thickness control is somewhat better with supported adhesive, but depends on the joint config and process

what are you using the adhesive for?
what is the joint configuration?
what is the tooling and cure process?

knit vs random carrier probably has more effect on cost than performance.
have you talked to adhesive suppliers and asked for their advice?

 

[midsidenode]

Are random carriers generally less expensive than kit? I will plan on talking to the supplier. Thanks SW.

 

[SWComposites]

I suspect so, but get price info from the suppliers.