Kennesaw, Georgia – Chemique Adhesives’s Solfre 2 two-component polyurethane adhesive is being used by Ocala, Florida–based American Panel in its refrigerator panels. American Panel turned to Chemique to solve a delamination problem.
American Panel manufactures walk-in refrigerators and freezers for schools, institutions, hospitals and restaurants. Previously, the company used a water-based adhesive, but this was ineffective as temperature changes caused the panels to delaminate as they expanded or contracted.
The presence of hot and cold air on either side of the panel, and the mechanical force of opening and closing doors, caused the foam insulation to separate from the panel. The result was a blistering effect, said American Panel.
The firm added that Solfre 2 is now used by the company to adhere polyurethane foam to wood and metal panels, which can be up to 1.2 x 6 m (4 x 19 ft). It is also used on internal components such as cam locks.
As there is no moisture requirement for curing the adhesive, cure times are not affected by humidity or moisture. Furthermore, as the adhesive is solvent-free, solvent and moisture cannot be trapped in pockets, leading to delamination, American Panel said.
“Without Solfre 2, we couldn't make our product as good as we'd want it to be,” said Paul Ramsbottom, director of engineering at American Panel. “I would say our product is consistently better as a result of Solfre 2 because, without it, we’d have to reject a high amount of finished walk-in panel product. It helps us maintain a consistent, quality product for our customers.”
