Maintenance Procedure for Bonding Robot Components with NXB-KIT-753-001 Adhesive

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Tools Required

• 50mL dual cartridge dispensing gun
• static mixing nozzles
• isopropyl alcohol
• lint-free cloths
• abrasive pad
• clamps or fixturing
• safety glasses
• nitrile gloves

Article

Overview

The NexBot Robotics 753-001 (SKU: NXB-KIT-753-001) is a high-performance, two-part structural epoxy designed for permanent bonding of metal and composite components on NexBot robot systems, including the R-20, R-50, and C-10 series. Proper application is critical to achieving the specified 25 MPa lap shear strength and ensuring a durable, reliable repair. This procedure outlines the approved steps for using this adhesive in maintenance and repair applications where mechanical fastening is not suitable.

Safety Precautions

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile) when handling and applying the adhesive.
• Ventilation: Use the adhesive in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling vapors.
• Skin Contact: Avoid direct contact with skin. If contact occurs, wash the affected area immediately with soap and water. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for complete safety information.

Parts & Equipment Needed

Parts:

• NXB-KIT-753-001 High-Strength Structural Adhesive (50mL Cartridge)

Tools & Supplies:

• 50mL dual cartridge dispensing gun
• Static mixing nozzles (compatible with the 50mL cartridge)
• Isopropyl alcohol (99% purity recommended)
• Clean, lint-free cloths
• Fine-grit abrasive pad (e.g., Scotch-Brite™ 7447)
• Clamps or fixtures suitable for the parts being bonded
• Spatula or scraper for removing excess adhesive

Procedure

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a maximum-strength bond.

Step 1: Surface Preparation

This is the most critical stage for bond performance. Do not take shortcuts.

1. Degrease: Thoroughly clean all bonding surfaces with a lint-free cloth saturated with isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils, grease, or contaminants.
2. Abrade: Mechanically abrade the bonding surfaces using a fine-grit abrasive pad. The goal is to create a dull, uniformly textured surface, which increases surface area and promotes mechanical adhesion. Work in a cross-hatch pattern.
3. Final Clean: Clean the abraded surfaces again with isopropyl alcohol to remove all sanding dust and residue. Allow the solvent to fully evaporate before proceeding. Do not touch the prepared surfaces with bare hands.

Step 2: Adhesive Preparation

1. Load Dispenser: Insert the NXB-KIT-753-001 cartridge into the 50mL dispensing gun.
2. Equalize Cartridge: Remove the protective cap from the cartridge. Point the cartridge upward and gently apply pressure to the dispenser trigger to purge any trapped air. Dispense a small amount of adhesive onto a disposable surface without the mixing nozzle attached. Ensure that both Part A and Part B are flowing evenly. Wipe the cartridge tip clean.
3. Attach Nozzle: Securely attach a new static mixing nozzle to the cartridge.

Step 3: Adhesive Application

1. Purge Nozzle: Dispense and discard the first 1-2 inches of adhesive that exits the mixing nozzle. This ensures that the material is properly mixed in the correct ratio.
2. Apply Bead: Apply a continuous, uniform bead of adhesive to one of the prepared surfaces. Apply enough material to ensure the bond gap is completely filled after the parts are mated.

Step 4: Assembly and Clamping

1. Join Parts: Immediately join the components together with a slight sliding motion to distribute the adhesive evenly and wet the entire surface.
2. Clamp: Secure the assembly using clamps or fixtures. Apply just enough pressure to hold the parts firmly in place and create a thin, consistent bond line. CAUTION: Do not overtighten, as this can squeeze out too much adhesive and starve the joint, resulting in a weak bond.
3. Clean Up: Carefully remove any excess adhesive that squeezes out from the bond line using a scraper and a cloth with isopropyl alcohol. It is much easier to clean up before the adhesive begins to cure.

Curing Schedule

• Handling Strength: Allow the assembly to remain clamped and undisturbed at room temperature (20-25°C / 68-77°F) for a minimum of 24 hours to achieve handling strength.
• Full Cure: The adhesive achieves its full structural properties, including its 25 MPa lap shear strength, after approximately 72 hours at room temperature.
• Note: Curing times are dependent on ambient temperature. Lower temperatures will extend the cure time, while higher temperatures will accelerate it.

Verification

1. Visual Inspection: After the full cure period, remove the clamps and visually inspect the bond line. It should be free of voids and appear uniform.
2. Functional Check: Gently perform a functional check on the repaired component to ensure it is secure and rigid. Do not subject the bond to full operational loads until the 72-hour cure time has elapsed.
3. Return to Service: Once the bond is verified, the robot component can be returned to service.

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