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Panel to Frame and Stiffener to Panel Assemblies
Permanently bond panels to rigid frames
3M Panel-to-Frame and Stiffener-to-Panel attachment solutions for lasting strength
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Panel to Frame Assemblies
Panel-to-frame assemblies occur when decorative or load-bearing panels are applied to a rigid frame for support. Some common examples include construction facades, trailer panels, elevator walls and sign boxes.
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Stiffener to Panel Assemblies
Stiffeners are applied to panels to give extra support and rigidity. These are commonly seen in trailer panels, traffic signs and large metal enclosures.
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Panel Applications Typically Require
- Dead load holding strength
- Flexibility for dynamic loads or thermal expansion mismatch
- Gap filling or variation in fit from end to end
- Water-tight sealing
Common Joint Types and Stresses in Panel Assemblies
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Both panel-to-frame and stiffener-to-panel face similar stresses with a few exceptions. Generally a panel-to-frame or stiffener-to-panel assembly will exist vertically or horizontally in the form of an overlap joint. A stiffener is also bonded with an overlap style joint where the adhesive spans the length of the stiffener.
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Shear Stress in Panel-to-Frame
In vertical panel-to-frame applications, the force of gravity produces a shear stress as the dead load weight of the panel is exerted onto the bond. Some peel or cleavage may be present, but those peel and cleavage forces are mitigated by having a long lineal length through which to disperse the load.
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Compression and Tension in Stiffener-to-Panel
In stiffener-to-panel applications, the weight of the stiffener is often not so large as to contribute to dead load shear. Instead, for these assemblies, the stiffener is often experiencing tension and compression as load is applied to the panel, such as wind loads on sign faces. Again, some cleavage and peel forces may be present, but long lineal lengths and the hat-channel design disperse these loads.
Product Categories and Adhesive Considerations for Panel-to-Frame Applications
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3M tapes, adhesives, sealers and fasteners offer a range of products for panel-to-frame and stiffener-to-panel applications. Maintain elasticity for dynamic loads or to allow for expansion when temperatures change.
Consider the following factors when choosing a product
- Number of steps to apply adhesive or tape
- Ease of application
- Rate of strength build
- Flexibility and adhesive joint expansion
- Holding power
- Repair and removal after cure
Product Categories
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High-strength bonding tapes are a proven alternative to screws, rivets, welds and other mechanical fasteners. 3M™ VHB™ Tape offers instant strength, a high ultimate bond and seals simultaneously. 3M™ VHB™ Tape’s viscoelasticity allows relative movement of parts for thermal expansion/contraction. Best for flat to flat applications with a consistent bondline thickness.
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Acrylic, epoxy and urethane structural adhesives hold over 6.8MPa (1,000psi) in overlap shear strength.Best suited for thinner bondlines, irregular shapes and textured surfaces where load-bearing strength is needed. Provides the highest load-bearing strength and environmental resistance.
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Acrylic, polyurethane, nitrile and hybrid are one component adhesive technologies with outstanding sealing properties. These products are capable of filling larger and irregular gaps including rough substrates. Highly flexible formulations allow for relative movement for thermal expansion/contraction.
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3M™ Dual-Lock Reclosable Fasteners for strong yet easily removable fastening solutions. These products are ideal to allow access for servicing or replacement of a panel. Generally backed with 3M™ VHB™ Tape or other 3M adhesive technologies.
3M Panel-To-Frame and Stiffener-to-Panel attachment solutions performance factors for lasting strength
All 3M technologies shown below are commonly used in panel applications. Use the list below as a relative comparison of product performance.
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+ = Good ++ = Better +++ = Best
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PRO TIP
For fast handling and strength with high ultimate strength, consider a combination build using both adhesives and tapes, such as 3M™ VHB™ Tape with 3M™ Adhesive Sealants
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Need help finding the right product for your project? Contact us if you need product, technical or application advice or want to collaborate with a 3M technical specialist, or give us a call at +971 4 3670 777.
Need help finding the right product for your project? Contact us if you need product, technical or application advice or want to collaborate with a 3M technical specialist, or give us a call at +971 4 3670 777.
