Product Name
PLEXUS MA550 - 50 Gallon Drum Adhesive
Brief Description
Plexus MA550 is a high-performance, two-part methacrylate adhesive specifically engineered for the structural bonding of diverse materials including thermoplastics, metals, and composite assemblies. It is supplied as a non-sagging gel and is renowned for its robust strength, durability, and excellent resistance properties. This adhesive is a standard choice for applications requiring minimal surface preparation, particularly within the marine industry.
Popular Applications & Uses
- Structural bonding of various assemblies in manufacturing.- Secondary bonding applications in the marine industry, including gelcoats, FRP, and plastics.- Bonding of composites, metals, and thermoplastics in the transportation industry, such as specialty vehicles.- Metal bonding, including aluminum, stainless steel, and raw steel.- Bonding of engineered plastics like ABS, acrylics, PVC, and polycarbonates.- Applications in thermoforming and sign & display manufacturing.
Industries that Commonly Use It
- Marine- Transportation/ Specialty Vehicle- General Manufacturing- Metal Fabrication- Plastic Fabrication- Fabrication- Sign & Display- Thermoforming
Special and Unique Features
- Two-part methacrylate formulation for strong structural bonds.- Bright white color and UV stable, preventing discoloration over time.- Requires virtually no surface preparation, simplifying application processes.- Offers excellent fatigue endurance, outstanding impact resistance, and superior toughness.- Fast, consistent strength development at room temperature.- High elongation and excellent stress distribution for durable bonds.- Excellent resistance to hydrocarbons, acids, bases (pH 3-10), and salt solutions.- Supplied as a non-sagging gel, suitable for various application orientations.
Key Properties
- Chemical Base: Methyl Methacrylate (MMA)- Color: White- Mix Ratio (by volume): 10:1- Working Time: 40-50 minutes- Fixture Time: 70-75 minutes (at 74°F / 23°C)- Operating Temperature Range: -67°F to +249.8°F (-55°C to 121°C)- Shear Strength: 1,200-1,800 psi (8.9 – 12.4 MPa)- Tensile Strength: 1,800-2,400 psi (12.4 – 16.5 MPa)- Tensile Elongation: 40-80%- Gap Filling: 0.03 in. to 0.375 in. (0.75mm to 10mm)- Viscosity (Adhesive A): 130,000-160,000 cP- Viscosity (Activator B): 30,000-70,000 cP
Surface Compatibility
- ABS- Acrylics- Aluminum- FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic)- Gelcoats- Metals (general, including stainless steel, raw steel, coated metals)- Polyester (including DCPD modified)- PVC (Rigid PVC)- Styrenics- Thermoplastics (general, including PBT, Polycarbonate, TPUs)- Urethane- Vinyl Ester- Composites (DCPD, Phenolics, Epoxy Based Composites, RIM)
Known backups / known substitutes
- Infinity Bond MMA 550- Maven MMA550- Other Plexus MMA Adhesives (e.g., MA300, MA310, MA320, MA330, MA420, MA425, MA830, MA832, MA2015, MA2030, MA1025, MA685, MA2090, MA2045, depending on specific application requirements)
Comparison Note
Plexus MA550 is a premium, high-performance methacrylate adhesive known for its robust structural bonding capabilities and minimal surface preparation requirements, particularly in demanding environments like the marine industry. While it offers superior strength, durability, and chemical resistance, its cost can be a consideration for some businesses. Alternatives like Infinity Bond MMA 550 and Maven MMA550 offer similar methacrylate formulations and properties, potentially at a different price point, though they may have variations in working time, handling time, and other specific performance characteristics. When considering substitutes, it is crucial to review manufacturer datasheets for detailed specifications to ensure compatibility with specific application needs and performance expectations.
