23 minute read
ADHESIVES
from Buyer's Guide 2021
STUCK ON GLUE
THE COLLISION SECTOR ENTERS THE ADHESIVE AGE—IS YOUR BUSINESS READY?
It is easy to understand why progressive repairers are frequently averse to the idea of learning about the latest adhesive technology, and its increasing role in making structural repairs.
Adhesives have a bad name. Structural repairs are important. Other approaches, like welding seem more reliable. And it was, after all, the use of glue in structural repairs that resulted in the multi-million-dollar judgement against an American repair business in the John Eagle case.
It might be time for progressive repairers to rethink their position though—don’t get us wrong, their skepticism is warranted.
If a repair business can bring a vehicle back to pre-accident condition for less money than its competitors, it will thrive. To make such repairs, though, businesses must take advantage of a broad spectrum of procedures as possible—and that includes the use of structural adhesives.
Certainly, mechanical fasteners were, at one point, superior to chemical adhesives in bonding together dissimilar materials. Of course, given the long-term damage caused by rivets, neither were ever particularly successful.
Similarly, the cost of replacing broken plastic parts was, for a long time, a more attractive financial option than attempting to fix them. Cost aside, plastic parts could never be truly fixed by adhesives back then—the cracks would be visible to the customers too.
Times have changed. Some modern structural adhesives are capable of bonding together different materials at the molecular level. The inclusion of high-tech superalloys also means that when the heat of a weld could disrupt the structural integrity of a piece of equipment—adhesives are the only option for bonding.
OEMs are already on board with the possibilities offered by high-tech adhesives. In 2020, General Motors used epoxy-based structural adhesives in the Cadillac CT6, allowing it to make use of different steels and aluminum parts without destroying their integrity. Ford’s use of structural adhesives dates back even further, with the F-150s design including epoxy-based structural adhesives by the late 2010s.
Over the next few pages, we showcase several cutting-edge chemical compounds capable of feats you may never have imagined. Get stuck in it!
Glue Tab Dent Repair Station
PROSPOT
prospot.com Self-Stick Liquid Protection Fabric
3M CANADA
3Mcanada.ca
The complete Glue Tab Dent Repair Station from ProSpot has everything you need to easily repair any dent on a wide range of materials. With the ability to work on aluminum, steel and painted surfaces without the need to grind, this station is equipped to handle all types of dent repairs. Included in the station is a variety of pull accessories and reusable pull tabs to help aid the dent repair process, not to mention its safe for use with electronics and computers and eliminates any backside corrosion. Altogether the mobility and storage of this station makes it a staple in any technicians shop. Ideal for a wide range of temporary surface protection the Self-Stick Liquid Protection Fabric presented by 3M forms a liquid-proof barrier to help protect work surfaces from solvents, water, oils and more. It features a one-step application process with an adhesive backing that’s able to keep the material secure while also being easy to reposition and remove without any residue. Able to be used indoors and outdoors, this protective fabric has also been known to reduce the chances of any slips or falls in working areas.
U-Seal 500
NEW POLYURETHANE TECHNOLIGIES
nptsrl.com PIM 77793 XXX Specialty Gel Adhesive Remover
SEM PRODUCTS
semproducts.com
This high-performance adhesive sealant was made specifically for sealing and bonding various materials of in-car body work. From steel, to sheet metal, plastic and varnished surfaces U-Seal 500 offers users permanent flexible, yet stable elastic sealing without any bubble formation, swelling or shrinkage. The adhesive is available in white, grey and black and has a curing rate of 33mm per 24 hours.
Speedline Glue Repair System
BETAG INNOVATION
betagnorthamerica.com Utilize the new 77793 XXX Specialty Gel Adhesive Remover from SEM Products, the first gel adhesive remover for the automotive refinish market. XXX Specialty Gel Adhesive Remover is a solvent-based gel for removing adhesive residue as well as a number of other contaminates. The gel formula improves efficiency and eliminates product waste by evaporating slowly, keeping the surface wet long enough to fully saturate adhesive residue or contaminates. The run-resistant gel is ideal for vertical applications.
Tiger Seal
U-POL
u-pol.com
The Speedline Glue Repair System can be used to repair or significantly reduce the size of large areas of damage and includes BETAG’s Speedline Puller and six different Speedline tabs for use according to the type and location of the damage. It can be configured as a single comprehensive system for use across the whole bodyshop—or several satellite systems for individual work bays in busier shops. Th is single component, moisture cured polyurethane sealant and adhesive can be used to replicate the factory appearance of various automotive seams. Ready-to-use, Tiger Seal completely and permanently seals and bonds without shrinking, and can be applied directly to bare metal, steel and aluminum. Not only that, but this adhesive can also be painted and tooled immediately aft er application.
THE GREENTECH PRODUCTS ARE SOLD EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH FLATLINE SPRAYBOOTH SPECIALISTS.
The Greentech machineries are equipped with catalytic panels, powered by methane gas or LPG, able to emit a low-intensity uniform heat without producing flame. This innovative and convenient technology makes the workflow extremely competitive, by improving the drying quality and reducing the environmental impact of even 80% in comparison with the traditional systems.
UnoLiner Systems is proud to annouce the appointment of R S Finishing as the NEW Canadian importer and distributor
UnoLiner: Swedish origin, Dutch innovation:
Swedish in origin, UnoLiner has been based in the Netherlands since a new generation of entrepreneurs took the reins in 2013. Starting from the existing UnoLiner chassis straightening systems, they respond to new trends and developments in the car body and chassis repair market. Major improvements have been carried out and the delivery program has been extended to encompass the globe.
Sophisticated Construction:
Home of the patented UnoLiner car chassis straightening system, designed to straighten cars, MPVs, pickup trucks, vans, SUVs and other utility vehicles efficiently, fast, and accurately. Our main strengths are user-friendliness and quality. In more than 25 countries, satisfied customers work with UnoLiner auto body panel, chassis straightening, and measuring systems.
In-Ground Bench - level with the ground in it’s lowest position.
In-Ground Bench
About UnoLiner: Products:
RV8E 8 Ton 18V Handheld
Ford OEM Approved P50 5 Ton Electric Push/Pull System
The heavy-duty UnoLiner chassis straightening bench frame serves as a basis for all UnoLiner auto chassis straightening benches. Machined profiles on the bench frame ensure the comprehensive UnoLiner range of equipment such as Draw Aligners, Bench Adapters, Down Pull Adapters, and Chain Guides can easily be attached and used. For flexible and efficient vehicle body and chassis repair work, every UnoLiner chassis straightening bench is equipped with UnoLiner’s “Quick Lock” Chassis Clamps and Bench Adapters.
UnoLiner Systems B.V. has its headquarters in Opmeer, 40 kilometers north of Amsterdam. An enthusiastic team of craftsmen and engineers work on the latest generation of auto chassis straightening and body panel repair systems. Utilizing the solid professional history of the UnoLiner vehicle collision repair and straightening systems, we are always developing and implementing improvements on our continually expanding product range.
TRAINING CENTRE IS LOCATED IN AURORA, ONTARIO Company name: R S Finishing Phone number: 905-881-9768 Email address: info@rsfinishing.com
PRECISION MEASURING WITHOUT BORDERS
WHY NEW ALIGNMENT AND MEASURING TECH IS TAKING BUSINESS OUT-OF-BOUNDS
While vehicle lifts might be stuck inside collision facilities, they are no longer required for many measurement procedures to be performed.
Since the late 2010s, cutting-edge measuring systems providers have begun delivering products that allow vehicle measurements to be made precisely and efficiently from wherever a vehicle should happen to be. Measurement systems had gone ‘allterrain.
When AccuVision-3D, Arslan Automotive Canada’s much-touted 3-D measuring system, was introduced to the North American market in June 2017, it was rightly seen as a game changer.
The system needs no targets, lasers, arms, magnets, cables or adapters. Measurements typically take less than 10 to 15 minutes to complete. The system works if the car is on a jig or bench, on the floor or on a lift in any position. It could even be used if the floors are uneven.
As Arslan’s founder joked: “For all I care, it could be on a rotisserie, and we could still measure it!”
This business wasn’t the only major alignment equipment provider to see the advantage of all-terrain measuring.
The latest version of the Spanesi Touch electronic measuring system can measure a vehicle on any lift, frame rack, bench or on the ground. During the repair process, the Touch provides live pulling information, showing the technician straightening operations results in real-time.
With FenderBolt, which is the latest version of the Matrix repair analysis software, the already mobile Matrix Wand Measuring System’s hardware could send back its information to a remote computer location, having uploaded it directly to the cloud.
Since 2020, the advantages of these all-terrain solutions became increasingly apparent. As the world became averse to close contact, the ability to work outdoors, or in non-specialized areas of a business, unnecessary contact is limited.
Of course, contact-free procedures also mean businesses can save on transportation and storage fees. As a result of this realization, many of the most significant enhancements to alignment and measuring systems from multiple providers have come from cutting down on hardware requirements and offering the possibility to work with less interpersonal interaction—and with in-house accuracy.
TAILOR-MADE FOR THE TRADE
WHEN IT COMES TO ALIGNMENT AND MEASURING SYSTEMS, DO YOU HAVE YOUR OPTIONS STRAIGHT?
Until recently, most collision facilities outsourced alignment and measuring work. Thanks to recent innovations, however, many collision repair facilities can do far more in-house than ever before.
The biggest shift that has allowed for collision businesses to take back control on alignment work has been the drift away from manual alignment systems, and toward multi-functional electronic measuring systems.
Not only are many of these new systems designed to be easy-to-use, but many are designed to be used anywhere as well. Recent models have been specifically designed to allow for outdoor operations.
The newest generation of measuring systems also mean a drastic reduction in the amount of equipment needed to be competitive in the measuring and alignment game. Where once all the equipment—including scanners, radius gauges, targets and plates—required a huge amount of storage space, this is no longer the case.
These premier systems work in conjunction with top-tier repair databases, allowing for on-the-spot comparisons with digitally rendered images of the OEM design. It isn’t just that these systems allow collision facilities to work faster and more accurately, they also simplify the claims process. Some top-quality systems now document damage and automatically share it with insurers, and even blueprint jobs.
It is difficult to imagine a business remaining competitive without adopting a next generation measuring system. Any ADAS-equipped vehicles need to be properly aligned with how the vehicle is traveling down the road.
If you want to see how your system measures up to the competition, take a gander through the following pages for information on the latest alignment and measuring solutions!
106EXT Frame Straightening Bench
SPANESI
www.spanesi-americas.com Multibench
SPANESI
www.spanesi-americas.com
Boasting a lifting capacity of 5,000 kg (11,000 lbs), a lifting height of more than one metre and a six-metre-long platform designed for vehicles with longer wheelbases, Spanesi’s 106EXT Frame Straightening Bench can cover all types of repair jobs. From structural, to light duty, medium duty and commercial this bench provides users with a fixturing capacity for up to 14 locations along the 106EXT’s 7 crossmembers. Also included is Spanesi’s Universal Jig System which is currently the only system in the world that allows upward jig thrusting and downward pulling movements at each fixture location.
P50 5 Ton Electric Push/Pull System
RS FINISHING
www.rsfinishing.com With a lead capacity of over 3,100kg and a pulling column capacity of 10 tons, this system is ideal for cars, mid-size SUVs, and small commercial vans. e Multibench allows technicians to li vehicles directly from the wheels removing the need for buff ers. With a small footprint and a total lowered height of 108mm, the Multibench takes up very little room in the shop, allowing technicians to utilize the bay for other repair operations.
CRS4600T-DO Bench
R.S. FINISHING - UNOLINER SYSTEMS
rsfinishing.com
This handheld pushing and pulling system has a rechargeable Li-ion battery and a capacity to push and pull up to 5 tonnes. This cordless compact tool is ideal for narrow spaces and comes outfitted with a variety of useful accessories enabling use for a wide range of repair options. The P50 helps its users to save time on repairs as there’s no need to swap cylinders, and without needing to change cylinders there’s no chance of hydraulic oil leakage that can occur in the switching process. Designed for repairing and restoring vehicles of all sizes, UnoLiner’s CRS4600-DO Bench can cater to crossovers, MPVs, SUVs, pickup trucks, all-terrain vehicles and even light commercial vehicles. Compatible with all of UnoLiner’s tools, equipment and accessories this system also boasts a total lifting capacity of 4,600 kg (10,000 lbs), a low base height of 14 cm, multiple-angle 10-tonne pulling capacity and mechanical and hydraulic safety systems.
ACCUVISON-3D
ARSLAN AUTOMOTIVE
arslanauto.com Touch Electronic Measuring System
SPANESI
www.spanesi-americas.com
Arslan Automotive keeps it simple with the Accuvision 3D measuring system. With no moving parts, lasers, targets, adaptors, magnets, arms, extensions, wires, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, there is also no calibration needed making it the “Quickest, simplest and most accurate 3D measuring system in the world.” The Accuvision 3D is durable, versatile, universal, mobile, and user friendly, saving you time and money. Everything you need for measuring and alignment can be done easily with the Accuvision 3D measuring system.
Eclipse Plus Electronic Measuring System
WEDGE CLAMP SYSTEMS
wedgeclamp.com e Touch Electronic Measuring System from Spanesi can perform repair diagnostics on any li , bench, or surface. e Touch ensures that vehicles are returned to OEM specifi cations, all while generating a set of pre- and post-repair documentation. e Touch Electronic Measuring System can reach diffi cult measuring points with ease, doing so quickly and accurately using intuitive WinTouch so ware. e Touch provides measurements for vehicle frame and structural items, wheel and tire alignment, user-added points with photos, mechanical and suspension parts, and comparative measurements.
RV8E 8 Ton 18v Handheld
RS FINISHING
www.rsfinishing.com
Th e Eclipse Plus Electronic Measuring System combines a polar laser scanner with portable live targets and intelligent stems positioned by the body technician at strategically marked frame or body points. Each sweep of the laser precisely locates each target, which then transmit the measurements to the computer. As the pulling progresses, the Live Targets’ verifi cation lights change to indicate severity of damage at each point on the vehicle. Once all the lights are green, the frame is restored to its proper dimensions. System prints pre- and post-repair 3-D reports for insurance and includes live online training. This handheld UnoLiner RV8E packs quite a punch with its 8-ton pushing and pulling capacity. Despite its compact size, the RV8E is a durable and powerful riveting device, approved by Ford and also suited for specific rivet mandrils of many other car brands, such as Audi, Mercedes, BMW, Ferrari, and Porsche. Its pulling and pushing actuator controls a powerful electrohydraulic pump, which guarantees strong and silent operation. The RV8E is also capable of removing rivets with standard dies. Pressing time can be regulated, and when a set force is obtained, the device can retract automatically.
VLA03
HERKULES EQUIPMENT CORPORATION
herkules.us FenderBolt
THE MATRIX WAND
thematrixwand.com Quick Check Drive
HUNTER ENGINEERING
hunter.com
This company is called Herkules for a reason, reintroducing the VLA03 (formerly the T200) this powerful system can effortlessly lift up to 10,000lbs. Whether you choose to have this beast surface mounted or recessed it provides users with a low closed height of only 4.125 inches and a raised height up to 14.6 inches. Also featuring ramps for simple and efficient loading, along with crossbars, height extenders and rubber blocks for a more versatile yet reliable product.
Mosaic ADT
CHIEF TECHNOLOGY
chieftechnology.com Fenderbolt is the Matrix Wand’s cloud-based repair analysis soft ware and online training platform. By uploading static images of collision damage into the soft ware, infi nite measuring data points can be selected from that image. Fenderbolt can provide Matrix Wand users with many key benefi ts, including: Mitchell Reference Data, Matrix Repair analysis, the ability to collect and store your own measuring data, wand usage reports for shop owners, phone and internet technical support and I-CAR certifi ed online training courses. Providing shops with a low-labour option for streamlining alignment procedures, the Quick Check Drive system from Hunter engineering is a fully autonomous diagnostics system. Designed to fully scan a vehicle in just three to five seconds using a total of 12 cameras and 32 laser sensors, this device quickly and easily captures, analyzes and instantly displays accurate data readings. With the option to have it installed as a surface or flush-mounted unit, the Quick Drive Check system fits well in any shop.
Celette Cameleon
TITANIUM TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
titanium22.com
The Mosaic ADT (Advanced Diagnostic Technology) boasts an automated ADAS calibration system said to be powered by the same end-of-line technology that OEMs use. No manual measurements or adjustments required thanks to enhanced radar and laser information sequencing along with self-diagnostic target and vehicle sensor checks. This machine is said to reduce the risk of liability and human error with its “future-proof” system that automatically updates with the latest OEM procedures and records the full calibration and repair process in order to ensure proper methods are followed. The Cameleon from Celette offers a new concept for structural repair and measurement of damaged vehicles. According to Celette and distributor Titanium Tools and Equipment, the Cameleon can provide an excellent solution to help repairers keep up with the high volume of intermediate segment vehicles entering the global market. Advantages of the Cameleon include a modular and scalable set of standard tips, adjustable X and Y plates and adjustable jigs. Furthermore, users can also log into the tool to access user-friendly software in order to customize their own jig assemblies with an ever-growing vehicle database.
COVER YOUR ADAS
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance System. It refers to any electronic system that assists the driver while driving and is intended to improve vehicle safety.
It is estimated that nearly 40 per cent of the new vehicles sold in Canada today have ADAS systems built into them and it is projected that by 2023, that figure could jump to more than 50 per cent.
This technology is designed to automate the operation of the vehicle systems into four broad categories: adaptive, automated, monitoring or warning.
Adaptive systems are ones that adapt vehicle settings based on input from the surrounding environment.
Automated systems take over certain functions that the driver cannot do safely.
Monitoring systems use sensors, cameras, or other means to observe the surrounding area or driving of the vehicle and assesses whether a correction needs to be made.
GLASS PANES
ADAS technology allows the systems in the vehicle to function properly and is built into a vehicle’s windshield. This technology will require more rigorous standards and qualifications for auto glass technicians.
Replacing a broken windshield is not as simple as replacing the glass. Some ADAS windshields have modules or cameras built into them that need to be calibrated in order to function properly
Many features of ADAS are designed to capture external information through the windshields, which allows the vehicle’s computer to quickly analyze and efficiently provide the necessary action.
The technology requires the automotive glass to meet or exceed the requirements in order to not reduce, distort, or impede the signal, which ultimately may cause the vehicle to react incorrectly.
As a result, automotive glass manufacturers must meet the requirements for the ADAS systems. These requirements include choosing the right raw materials, investing in product engineering, and setting up the proper quality inspection standards for production.
Every car manufacturer has its own specifications for ADAS calibration. These differences range from manufacturer to
manufacturer, and in many instances, the same manufacturer will have differences from model to model.
Only trust manufacturers who have the proven experience to produce the original specifications of auto glazing which enables the ADAS system to be recalibrated. Precise calibration ensures correct Pitch, Yaw and Roll of camera angle.
Ultimately, access to the ADAS requirements and glass specifications, is key to making consistent ADAS glass. Different car manufacturers have different approaches to specific ADAS designs for their specific models.
ADAS sensors or cameras are most mounted on the glass. Once a windshield has been replaced, the position of the sensor or camera has ultimately changed, (even the slightest change will cause the need for calibration).
Recalibrate the camera or sensor after the replacement of the windshield is therefore necessary—whether OEM glass has been installed.
In order to re-calibrate the ADAS windshields, special training, equipment and expertise are required.
There are three types of calibrations: static, dynamic and a combination of the two.
STATIC CALIBRATION:
This type of calibration is performed in a shop where they have a specialized calibration tools such as electronic devices and laser targets specific to each model. Each vehicle manufacturer requires different target boards and specific predetermined standards set by the vehicle manufacturer.
Examples of some requirements for Static Calibration:
• Clean and level floor with minimum 30-foot depth from rear bumper to target board • Walls and floors cannot be black or white and cannot be checkerboard pattern • Walls must be free of posters • Technician’s clothing (no black or white colors, as it may interfere with the calibration process) • Proper lighting
Replacing a broken windshield is not as simple as replacing the glass. Some ADAS windshields have modules or cameras built into them that need to be calibrated in order to function properly.
EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC ADAS SYSTEMS:
• Adaptive cruise control (ACC) • Adaptive high beam • Glare-free high beam • Adaptive light control: swivelling curve lights • Automatic parking • Automotive navigation system providing up-to-date traffic information. • Automotive night vision • Blind spot monitor • Collision avoidance system • Crosswind stabilization • Driver drowsiness detection • Driver Monitoring System • Electric vehicle warning sounds used in hybrids and plug-in electric vehicles • Emergency driver assistant • Forward Collision Warning • Intersection assistant • Hill descent control • Intelligent speed adaptation or intelligent speed advice (ISA) • Lane change assistance • Pedestrian protection system • Traffic sign recognition • Turning assistant • Vehicular communication systems • Wrong way driving warning
There are three types of ADAS calibrations: static, dynamic and a combination of the two.
DYNAMIC CALIBRATION:
This type of calibration is done with a hand-held device that is connected directly into the vehicle’s computer through the OBD ll port of the vehicle. Once this is done, the vehicle will need to be driven at a designated constant speed (by the manufacturer), over a prescribed distance in proper weather conditions. Additionally, all lines on the road must be clearly visible. This allows the vehicle to be put into “learning mode” and uses reliable benchmarks to use as driving aids, allowing ADAS systems to become familiar to certain road features.
COMBINATION CALIBRATION
Some vehicle manufacturer requires both the Static and Dynamic Calibration’s to be done.
These calibration tools help to duplicate the manufacturers settings, ensuring your vehicle maintains the safety features it originally came with.
WHEN SHOULD CALIBRATIONS BE PERFORMED?
• When your windshield has been replaced • When the ADAS camera has been disconnected • Camera is removed partially or develops a fault. • After a wheel alignment or changes with the suspension.
All the above may affect how well your ADAS system works if it is not calibrated properly.
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT CAN NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE CALIBRATION PROCESS, CAUSING IT TO FAIL?
• Not having a full tank of fuel. • Having cargo in the trunk or the back seat. • Not having a proper wheel alignment. • Not having the windshield installed properly. • Items that may potentially affect the
Dynamic calibration process: • Not having proper weather conditions • Not having proper signage and painted lines on the road. • Not maintaining the speed required to perform the dynamic calibration.
While most drivers are not aware of the need to re-calibrate the ADAS systems to avoid potential safety risks. Nevertheless, when an ADAS windshield is replaced, the cameras must be recalibrated.
This is a critical process to ensure the driver and passengers’ safety.
Howard Berg is the regional sales manager for Canada at Fuyao North America Inc. Fuyao manufactures windshields for vehicles with ADAS functions according to the varying model requirements set out by OEMs.
ADAS TECHNOLOGY FALLS INTO FOUR CATEGORIES:
• Adaptive – systems that change/ adapt based on input from the surrounding environment.
•Automated – systems that take over and perform certain functions that the driver cannot do safely.
•Monitoring – systems that use sensors, cameras, or other means to observe the surrounding area or driving of the vehicle and assesses whether a correction needs to be made.
•Warning – systems that alert the driver to potential issues in their own driving or the driving of others that could increase the risk of injury to those in the vehicle.
