lambda technologies partners with loctite to bring variable frequency microwave curing benefits to automotive gaskets

Lambda Technologies' Variable Frequency Microwave (VFM) curing technology has now been introduced to the automotive industry by Loctite Corporation, which is using VFM in its FastGasket® sealing and assembly systems. This move into the automotive assembly market broadens the scope of current applications for VFM, which has also found success as a breakthrough technology for high-speed curing of adhesives and encapsulants in electronics manufacturing. Loctite's FastGasket® sealing systems dispense high-volume, cured-in-place silicone gaskets for a wide range of automotive assembly applications. VFM enables the gaskets to be cured up to 10 times faster than with traditional convection ovens. Also, by selectively heating the gasket being cured while allowing the surrounding assembly to remain much cooler, VFM allows parts to be handled and packaged immediately after curing, greatly increasing throughput. In addition, VFM ovens occupy 30-40% less floor space than convection ovens, generate negligible ambient heat and consume virtually no energy while idling, resulting in significant savings in air-conditioning and energy costs as well as factory floor space. For Lambda Technologies, the applications horizon for VFM technology continues to expand. According to Lambda Technologies' president, Dick Garard, "The opportunities we see for VFM in the automotive market underscore the benefits that this technology brings to a wide variety of curing applications. Teaming with a market leader like Loctite facilitates entry into these additional channels while we continue to focus on the electronics industry."