Technology company 3M is bringing a tried-and-tested European system to the UK

Its double-sided VHB high-strength tapes can be used as an alternative to mechanical fastenings to bond stiffener bars to cladding panels. Before application, both surfaces to be bonded should be thoroughly cleaned using 3M VHB surface cleaner. Bond strength is dependent on the amount of surface-to-surface contact achieved, so firm application using a hand roller is essential. Bond strength of 50% is achieved after 10 minutes, with full strength typically reached after 72 hours. Further product and technical support is available from 3M.