Chemique Adhesives Introduces Solfre PressSmart

Chemique Adhesives, a leading UK manufacturer of high-performance industrial adhesives and adhesive application equipment has launched Solfre PressSmart, an advanced three component (3C) polyurethane adhesive system designed to maximise efficiency, improve flexibility, and ensure consistent output in sandwich panel manufacturing.

Enhanced Control Through Dual Catalyst Technology

Solfre PressSmart consists of two Part A components and a single Part B hardener. The two Part A components contain different catalyst levels – one fast-curing and one slow-curing providing manufacturers with the ability to adjust processing times in real time and maintain consistent results regardless of ambient temperature.

By varying the blend ratio of the fast- and slow-curing Part A components during application, manufacturers can precisely control open time, press time, and total cure time to match production requirements.

Automated application equipment precisely mixes the two Part A components at the required ratio, guaranteeing consistent performance for each panel. This provides a wide processing window, with open times ranging from 10 to 100 minutes and total cure times from 30 to 300 minutes, enabling reliable adhesive performance in both hot and cold production environments.

“Solfre PressSmart marks a significant step forward for panel manufacturers who require both accuracy and flexibility,” said Stuart Francis, Managing Director of Chemique Adhesives. “The three-part system delivers precise control of open and press times, allowing for consistent processing times across a range of temperatures. This enables manufacturers to maximise throughput while maintaining the highest quality standards.”

Boosting Productivity with On Demand Processing Adjustments

For even greater production efficiency, Solfre PressSmart allows ratios to be adjusted between adhesive coats. Increasing the proportion of the fast-curing Part A component in later coats shortens press times without affecting open time or handling characteristics.

For example, a panel that typically requires 180 minutes in the press when using a conventional Solfre adhesive (with a 60 minute open time) can be cured in approximately 120 minutes when processed with Solfre PressSmart, significantly improving cycle time and throughput.

A New Standard for Panel Manufacturing

With its adjustable catalyst ratios, wide processing window, and compatibility with existing application equipment, Solfre PressSmart sets a new benchmark for adaptability and process control in sandwich panel manufacturing. It delivers reliable results across seasonal temperature changes and demanding production environments, enabling manufacturers to maintain quality while increasing operational efficiency.