Introduction

For proper bonding of strain gages and temperature sensors, the workpiece surface must be chemically clean and totally free of contaminants before applying the adhesive. Recommended surface cleaning procedures for all common structural materials are described in Micro-Measurements Instruction Bulletin B-129, Surface Preparation for Strain Gage Bonding .

In the case of steel and aluminum parts with finish-machined or formed surfaces, the surface cleaning procedure can be summarized briefly as follows:

1. Removal of oily contaminants with a solvent cleaner. Note: Immersion of the workpiece in a degreaser is, by itself, inadequate; and, if done as a preliminary step, must be followed by cleaning with an uncontaminated solvent (one which is never returned to the container or otherwise reapplied after contact with the workpiece).
2. Light abrasion in the presence of a mildly acidic wash, to dislodge and remove oxides and mechanically bound contaminants.
3. Thorough surface scrubbing with an alkaline solution, to finish the cleaning process and leave the surface at the appropriate pH level for optimum bonding.

When the cleaning procedure is performed strictly according to the instructions in Bulletin B-129, and when the proper high-quality cleaning agents are used, the surface will be left in a condition best suited for bonding.

Described in these listings is a complete assortment of M-Prep cleaning supplies, compounded and selected specifically for surface preparation in the installation of strain gages and temperature sensors.
 

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