Wicking grades of cyanoacrylate, anaerobic and UV adhesives have water-thin viscosity and are applied at the edge of an assembled joint, threads or crack, where capillary action pulls them in. They lock pre-assembled fasteners, seal porosity and tack wires and coils. They also run where they are not wanted, so dispensing is controlled with fine needles and small drops.
Hit the set screws with the wicking grade after torque, a drop on the edge and it pulls right in.
Also heard as
- wicking grade
- penetrating grade
- capillary grade
Related terms
Cyanoacrylate
A one-part instant adhesive that cures in seconds when trace moisture on a surface triggers it.
Threadlocker
An anaerobic adhesive applied to fastener threads to stop them loosening from vibration.
UV-cure adhesive
An adhesive that cures in seconds when exposed to ultraviolet or visible light of the right wavelength.
Gap filling
The ability of an adhesive to bond parts with a loose or uneven fit and still cure fully across the gap.