Fastener Coating Composition for Thread Locking and Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastener coatings often require multiple applications to achieve multiple functionalities such as locking, lubrication, anti-seizing, and sealing, which is inefficient and limited in application scope, whereas current technologies can only provide dual functionality in limited cases.
Innovation Solution
A coating composition comprising an epoxy curing agent, microencapsulated epoxy resin, expansion agent, binder, and solvent, with a weight ratio of 15:1 to 1:1, that cures to form an adhesive with thread-locking and sealing functionality upon installation, providing enhanced single-function properties and multiple functionalities in a single application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coating compositions are applied separately to achieve multiple functionalities, then the fastener can provide locking, lubrication, anti-seizing, and sealing functions, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coating compositions into a single integrated coating that provides locking, sealing, and other functionalities simultaneously. The composition includes epoxy resin, curing agent, and various additives that work together to deliver multiple functions in one application, eliminating the need for separate coating steps for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The coating composition is designed to perform multiple functions universally - it provides thread locking, sealing, lubrication, and anti-seizing properties all within a single formulation. This universal coating can be applied to various fastener types and substrates, delivering comprehensive protection and functionality without requiring function-specific coatings.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coating compositions are applied separately to achieve multiple functionalities, then the fastener can provide locking, lubrication, anti-seizing, and sealing functions, but the application time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional coatings into a single application-ready composition. By combining epoxy resin, curing agent, lubricants, and sealing agents into one mixture, the fastener can receive all necessary coatings in a single application step, dramatically reducing the time required compared to applying multiple separate coatings sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
The coating composition is pre-formulated with all necessary components mixed and ready for application. The epoxy resin and curing agent are prepared in advance along with lubricants and sealing agents, so that when applied, the coating is immediately functional without requiring additional preparation or sequential application steps.
3Device complexity
If a single coating composition is used to provide multiple functionalities, then the application process is simplified, but achieving effective locking and sealing simultaneously is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coating composition exhibits local quality by providing different functional properties at different locations or aspects of the fastener threads. The epoxy resin provides locking function where threads engage, while lubricants provide reduced friction where needed, and sealing agents fill gaps between threads and substrate. Each component acts locally to optimize its specific function while working together as a unified coating.
Solution Approach 2:
The coating is a composite material combining epoxy resin, curing agent, lubricants, sealing agents, and other additives in specific proportions. This composite formulation allows different functional components to work together synergistically - the epoxy provides structural bonding and locking, while embedded lubricants and sealing agents provide their respective functions, achieving reliable multi-functionality in a single coating.
4Reliability
If the epoxy resin and expansion agent are present in improper weight ratio, then the coating may not provide adequate anchoring or may cause substrate damage, but finding the optimal ratio requires extensive testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a particular weight ratio range (15:1 to 1:1) of epoxy resin to expansion agent to optimize performance. This parameter optimization ensures that the coating provides adequate anchoring capability - enough expansion to secure the fastener firmly, but not so much as to cause substrate damage. The curing agent ratio is also controlled to ensure proper curing and adhesion.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composition effectively achieves thread-locking and sealing functions within 24 hours, enhancing the fastener's anchoring and energy dissipation capabilities in various substrates, including concrete, wood, and MDF, with improved torque resistance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
comprising an epoxy curing agent component; a microencapsulated epoxy resin component... The microencapsulated epoxy resin component and the expansion agent are present in a weight ratio of from about 15:1 to about 1:1
Implementation Method 2
an expansion agent component... The microencapsulated epoxy resin component and the expansion agent are present in a weight ratio of from about 15:1 to about 1:1
Data Source
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AI summary
A coating composition comprises: A) an epoxy curing agent component; B) a microencapsulated epoxy resin component; C) an expansion agent component; D) a binder component; and E) a solvent component. In various embodiments, components B) and C) are present in a weight ratio of from about 20:1 to about 1 :20. An ultraviolet-curable coating composition comprises components A), B), C) and D). The ultraviolet-curable coating composition further comprises F) a photoinitiator component. After rupture of component B), the compositions cure to form an adhesive. The compositions are useful for fasteners (e.g. screws and bolts) such that they can be referred to as fastener adhesives. A powdered adhesive composition comprises components A), B) and C). The powdered adhesive composition is substantially anhydrous and/or substantially free of a solvent (e.g. component E)). The powdered adhesive composition is useful for securing a fastener (e.g. in a borehole).