Adhesive Mounting of Accelerometers

The most desirable accelerometer mounting method is using a screw, stud or the bolt supplied by, or recommended by the manufacturer. For many measurements, adhesive mounting is the most convenient and often the only mounting available. Adhesive mounting is most commonly accomplished using cyanoacrylate or Epoxy. Other methods are sometimes used and are discussed in Endevco Technical Papers TP319 and TP312 (available by clicking here).

Cyanoacrylate mounting

These adhesives are available from a number of suppliers. They are commonly found in hardware stores under the name of "Super Glue." Since only a very thin layer is applied to the accelerometer's base, one can expect excellent transmissibility. This is a one-part adhesive that sets-up quickly making it very convenient. Cyanoacrylate mounting is usually considered a semi-permanent type of mounting.

When removing the accelerometer, use a releasing agent (Loctite X-NMS and acetone often works) to soften the adhesive, then twist off the accelerometer with a wrench. Never strike the accelerometer or remove it with a chisel or pry it off with a screw driver. Once the accelerometer is removed, clean off the residue using a solvent. Never scrape the residue off of the sensor.

While there are many excellent suppliers of cyanoacrylate adhesives; Loctite 430, Eastman 910 and Master Bond are among some of the popular choices. Suppliers offer their adhesives with different properties. A convenient reference showing the available properties can be found at this link: click here.

As with any type of mounting, always ensure a clean, smooth, flat, clean mounting surface.

Epoxy Mounting

In cases where a permanent mounting is required and the use of screws or stud mounting is impractical, epoxy offers an excellent alternative. Two-part epoxy adhesives offer the stiffness required to maintain the high-frequency response required in many tests as well as long-term reliable service.

The rules for surface preparation and removal are the same as those described above in the section on cyanoacrylate mounting. When using epoxy, try to keep the adhesive layer between the accelerometer and UUT as thin as possible to ensure maximum transmissibility.

There is a wide selection of epoxy types available. The Endevco Applications Engineering Department has found the tables, on this website, very useful: click here. Among the properties listed in these tables are recommended temperature ranges, cure time, etc...

General Comments

When adhesively mounting a stud-mount accelerometer, always use an adhesive mounting base. This will prevent the adhesives from entering the threaded hole and also make removal easier.

Post-test clean-up (describer herein) can not be overemphasized. Many accelerometers do not perform properly due to excess adhesive residue from past tests. The bottom surface of the accelerometer must me flat and smooth to ensure high frequency performance...

Temporary mounting can be accomplished using Petro Wax, and magnets. Other mounting materials include dental cement and hot glue.

By following these simple rules will ensure years of accurate measurements from your accelerometers. Assistance is always available from Endevco at applications@endevco.com.


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