LOCTITE^® SI 595

FAQ

Why should I choose a liquid gasket over a pre-cut gasket?

Pre-Cut Gaskets also referred to as solid or compression gaskets are typically made of rubber, cork, metal or paper. They require the exact size and shape gasket for each seal, resulting in complex inventory management. Once assembled, the pre-cut gaskets can relax, shrink or become embrittled over time, creating leak paths and potential system failure or plant downtime. Liquid gaskets on the other hand are form-in-place gaskets and can be easily dispensed onto a infinite range of flange patterns, reducing inventory costs. Once cured, they remain leak-free over a long period of time, even when exposed to harsh chemicals and high operating temperatures and pressures. They provide a seal that won’t shrink, compress, crack or relax, eliminating the risk of potential leak paths or having to retighten over time.

What gasketing materials can be used on high temperature applications in engines or exhausts?

LOCTITE^® silicone liquid gaskets have been specially formulated for high temperature engine sealing applications. However due to the very high temperatures generated in the combustion chamber care should be taken when specifying liquid gasketing materials around the cylinder head or exhaust manifold. Please consult the Henkel technical team for further advice where necessary.

What does thixotropic mean and what are the benefits?

In a nutshell: Thixotropic adhesives and sealants allow ease of handling during application. Thixotropic behavior results in easy flow dispensing and application, while preventing the migration of liquid product once its applied to the part. The word comes from the two Greek words thixis (shaking or mixing) and trepo (turning or changing). It refers to the viscosity being temporarily reduced when a stress is applied, e.g. product being extruded/stirred or brought into motion. Thixotropic adhesives allow for managing the flow during and after application. Meaning they are easy to extrude but stay in place after application as they revert back to their initial, thicker state.

What are the benefits of 1-part RTV silicones?

Firstly, RTV stands for Room Temperature Vulcanization and refers to the curing process seen in silicone adhesives known as vulcanization, which is the change from a liquid to an elastic body. During the vulcanization (when crosslinking starts due to contact with atmospheric moisture), a by-product is released (referred to as condensation). The 1-part condensation cure silicone system is an ideal solution for numerous sealing, bonding and coating applications. Flowable, low viscosity products are suitable for potting and coating applications, whilst medium to high viscose products are suitable for sealing and bonding parts without adhesive run-off