Anaerobic sealant: varieties, best manufacturers, rules of application

New and improved products and discoveries are constantly appearing in every branch of human activity. The gas and plumbing industries were no exception. Plant materials have been replaced by polymer substances created using innovative formulas that increase the tightness, reliability and durability of threaded connections. Anaerobic sealant is on the list of the best and most effective products.

Its name “anaerobic” is taken from the field of microbiology, and its meaning is a set of microorganisms whose vital processes do not require oxygen. Therefore, when using an anaerobic composition, the presence of air is not required for its hardening and polymerization. Without it, the substance will perform its basic functions.

What is anaerobic sealant

Anaerobic sealant is a special polymer substance in the form of a gel, which is used for threaded connections and seals. When applied, complete sealing of any threaded connections is achieved, which is why anaerobic sealant is actively used in such large areas as military and aerospace. However, the substance has also found its use in everyday life; it is ideal for plumbing work and performs its functions in heat, gas and water supply networks.

The liquid consistency of the polymer allows it to ideally fill all seams, recesses and uneven areas of the working area. It can be used when working with metal substrates without an air jacket. The gel will also dry quickly, maintaining excellent sealing of the seams.

Anaerobic glue is considered a widespread subtype of sealant. This substance differs from a sealant in its enhanced fixation.

Anaerobic sealant is a one-component composition that does not begin to harden upon contact with oxygen. Therefore, residues on the surface can be easily removed. If it gets inside the pipeline, excess anaerobic sealant will simply be washed off with water. At the joint and threaded connection, after a certain period the substance polymerizes, protects the surface from the penetration of any substances, moisture, gas, ensures reliability and tightness.

The hardening principle is based solely on the polymerization reaction. The effect is achieved only without an air shell.

The sealing composition is not afraid of vibrations and high pressures, the effects of temperature changes and aggressive substances. The substance can be applied to seal seams and joints, even on drinking water taps.

Main characteristics and scope of application

Anaerobic sealants differ from analogues in a number of properties and application features. They are perfect for metals, as they do not contain acids and do not cause corrosion. The compositions show the highest quality of adhesion in relation to the following metals:

• of stainless steel;
• carbon steel;
• cast iron;
• brass;
• bronze

The adhesion of clamps to chrome and chrome-plated surfaces, aluminum, alloy steel, galvanized bases, and plastic is somewhat worse, but still these materials are also suitable for the job. Other features of anaerobic sealants:

• excellent tolerance to liquids and gases under pressure up to 100 bar;
• absence of destruction under the influence of vibration, lubricants, fuel, weak acids, alkalis, solvents;
• possibility of operation at temperatures of –90…+300 degrees, maximum efficiency when operating in the range of +18…+30 degrees;
• hardening time: 5–60 minutes (depending on the specific brand).

Anaerobic sealing compounds can withstand high temperatures.
Anaerobic sealing compounds are applied only after careful preliminary preparation, otherwise the quality of the connection will decrease. When the work is done correctly, the finished joint gains strength comparable to the characteristics of a weld. Immediately after application, do not allow the sealant to come into contact with alkaline agents or acids. It is also important to exclude air from entering, otherwise the fixative will remain liquid in texture.

These properties allow the use of anaerobic compositions in a variety of fields and industries. They ensure the impermeability of casting units and welds in metallurgy and mechanical engineering, the military and aerospace industries, and are widely used for repairing water supply, sewerage, heating, and gas supply systems.

Anaerobic fasteners help secure various threaded joints, flange connections, and tubular elements. They can replace simple gel or rubber gaskets, which is very important in auto repair.

Also, anaerobic sealants are used instead of flax and FUM tapes, and they are becoming increasingly popular among master plumbers. Such products are used for working with drinking water, as they do not contain toxic components.

Advantages and disadvantages

The undeniable advantage of anaerobic sealants is that they have made the work of plumbers easier and have successfully replaced seals and gaskets that have long been obsolete. Their advantage lies not only in the convenience and high speed of completion of work, but also in greater efficiency, more reliable fastening of parts and the duration of the effect. It is possible to perform various works, seal threaded connections when installing plumbing fixtures, installing pipes even without special tools, and also without having the qualities of a professional plumber.

In the list of other, no less significant advantages of the substance, you can find:

• Possibility of application in any fields and industries.
• Compatible with various types of surfaces.
• High resistance to mechanical stress and damage.
• The liquid consistency is easy to use, it ensures uniform distribution and improved penetration of the substance.
• A wide selection of manufacturers and varieties presented allows you to select the composition of the desired color and viscosity.
• Anaerobic glue and sealant are not afraid of sudden drops or increases in temperature and are able to maintain their properties even at ambient temperatures from -60 to +300 °C.
• The frozen composition is resistant to vibration and pressure, and is not afraid of the effects of aggressive environmental factors and chemicals.
• Ease of use – even any novice master can understand the technology of applying the composition and achieve high-quality results.
• The curing period is short, on average 5-6 minutes.
• Economical use of the composition and affordable price, especially for domestic goods.
• High reliability of the connection and durability of the result, guarantee for protection against leaks for up to 20 years from the manufacturers.
• Environmentally friendly product.

This material has much fewer disadvantages than positive qualities. But they still exist:

• If the air temperature when using an anaerobic sealant drops below +15 ° C, then hardening occurs much more slowly, so the connection may require additional heating.
• Most types of anaerobic sealant harden too quickly, making it difficult for inexperienced craftsmen to work with.
• To separate the elements, they must be preheated.
• If substances with strong fixation were used, then the procedure for disassembling the connections can be very difficult. Applying significant force can lead to destruction, so additional devices and tools will be needed.
• Sometimes, to perform certain types of work, you will have to search for a long time for a suitable type of anaerobic sealant, study the properties and compare the features of many varieties of the product.

Classification

Anaerobic sealants come in various types and are selected depending on the strength of the threaded connection that is required to be obtained.

Sealant Anatherm

Types:

1. Low strength sealants are used to join threads that are subject to frequent disassembly. Such compositions are susceptible to increased load.
2. Medium strength - used to strengthen connections that will be dismantled during repairs or scheduled maintenance work. Typically, such compounds are used when connecting threaded joints of gearboxes, engines, and presses.
3. Increased strength. Connections fixed using such means can be dismantled in extremely rare cases; they are very resistant to shock and temperature.

Anaerobic sealants can be two- or one-component. In industry, multicomponent adhesives are used, since they are the best; in domestic conditions, such sealants are difficult to use.

Anaerobic gel-sealants Santekhmaster Gel

Types of anaerobic sealants:

1. Used in heating systems to seal elements. They are resistant to temperatures up to +120˚ C.
2. Mixtures that are resistant to aggressive substances. Can be used at temperatures from -60 to +140˚ C.
3. Quick-hardening compositions that are characterized by increased adhesion to various surfaces.

Types of anaerobic sealants

All existing anaerobic products can be divided into two large categories: one- and two-component compositions. The former are intended for sealing connections in domestic conditions, the latter are suitable for use in industry and have improved technical properties. Also, all sealants, depending on the type of their composition and strength indicators, can be designed for a specific narrow or wide scope of application.

Depending on the type, products are divided into:

• Low strength substances - used to seal threads subject to standard or high loads.
• Medium-strength polymers are suitable for providing services, strengthening joints, and can be used for further dismantling of joints.
• High-strength gels require one solid connection, without further dismantling of the structure.

According to the degree of strength, anaerobic compounds are divided into three groups:

1. Standard ones are used for those materials that are always in vibration-free conditions and do not require periodic dismantling and disassembly of structures. This type of sealant is easier to remove without the use of special tools. Value 4-9 Nm.
2. Medium sealants are used in those structures that are exposed to atmospheric pressure and are also subject to vibration. To remove the substance from the threads, you must use special tools or apply heat. Its value is 15-22 Nm.
3. Increased ones are used for those threaded connections that no one will dismantle for several years. It has the highest degree of strength among other anaerobic sealants, therefore it is able to withstand even the strongest vibrations and atmospheric pressure. To separate the joints, a force of 55-60 Nm is required.

You can also find anaerobic sealants in any suitable color. The anaerobic composition can be yellow, orange, red, green, blue or white.

Depending on the scope of application, sealants are divided into the following groups:

• Those that are used in communication systems, heating systems, and pipelines. They are combined in their ability to perfectly withstand high temperatures of air and water, for them the limit value is +120°C.
• Anaerobic compounds that are completely insensitive to aggressive environmental influences and chemicals; they are not afraid of the temperature range from -60 to +150°C.
• Adhesives with instantly fast curing times have high adhesive properties to any type of surface.

Adhesive sealants are valued by all craftsmen and professionals for their excellent consistency and fluidity. But depending on this, they can also be divided into various categories, including:

• Highly fluid.
• Medium fluid.
• Standard fluidity.
• Difficult to flow.
• Paste consistency.

Tips for choosing

Today there are a large number of anaerobic sealants on the market from various manufacturers. In order not to make a mistake when choosing such a composition, it is important to know under what conditions the connection will be used, and also take into account its following features:

• Structural materials from which the thread is made
• Is there a need to disassemble joints?
• What are the requirements for connection strength?
• Operating temperature range in which the connection is operated
• Thread size

Below we will consider time-tested anaerobic compounds that are presented on the Russian market.

Loctite

Loctite sealants are produced in the form of liquid compounds and sealing threads. Widely used in the installation of various pipelines, including in drinking water supply and other industries.

Loctite products are characterized by reliability, durability and, despite their high cost, are in high demand.

Permabond

Permabond anaerobic sealants are no less popular than Loctite compounds. They are successfully used in the automotive, oil and gas industries, military-industrial complex, aerospace industry, electrical engineering, in the maintenance of pipelines and fire extinguishing systems, etc.

EFELE

EFELE compositions are not as popular as the first two brands, but are nevertheless widely used in various industries, mechanical engineering, pipeline installation, etc.

Having the same characteristics as Loctite and Permabond materials, EFELE sealants are much more affordable in cost, which makes them more attractive to domestic consumers.

Manufacturers

There are a huge number of brands on modern markets that produce anaerobic sealants. You need to choose among them those worthy of attention, based on the following criteria:

• The sealant must be suitable for the material with which the work will be carried out.
• You need to choose an anaerobic composition based on the characteristics of the thread.
• Comply with the temperature conditions in which the substance will be used.
• Meet the requirements for the strength of fastening elements.

There are brands that have managed to win the trust of customers thanks to the high quality of their compositions. Current list of manufacturers:

1. Loctite – the manufacturer’s product range includes anaerobic sealants of various consistencies, as well as liquid gels, sealing threads and other substances for different types of work. Loctite anaerobic sealant is known for its durability. The price of Loctite with a fast setting speed is on average 1,700 rubles. The same type from the line with reduced viscosity will cost 100 rubles. more expensive for a package of 50 g.

2. “Anatherm” is a domestic manufacturer that charges a very affordable price for the excellent quality of its products. The manufacturer's assortment includes various sealants with special compositions that are used for assembling parts, strengthening joints, and eliminating minor irregularities and cracks. There are types of material for steam pipelines, as well as those used in the repair of mechanisms and components. A 200g tube will cost an average of 2,500 rubles.

3. “Santekhmaster” is a brand of anaerobic sealants, also from a domestic manufacturer, which is used to ensure flange connections, strengthen threads, and adherence of parts. Plumbing glue is devoid of a specific and pungent aroma, it is easy and convenient to apply, and it is not afraid of temperature changes, exposure to high pressure, or harmful chemicals. Anaerobic sealant "Santehmaster" can be used even in extreme conditions. But there is also a disadvantage of such an anaerobic composition - it must be applied by hand, which is not always convenient. The technician needs to ensure that the substance does not remain on the skin. Available in small tubes of 15 ml, according to the manufacturer, this amount should be enough to process 30 fittings with a diameter of 0.5 inches. The price of a tube is within 150 rubles.

4. Siseal is a medium-strength substance that is used to seal joints in plumbing, gas, water supply and heating systems. Not suitable for use in conditions of increased oxidation of materials, available in packages of 100 g, white in color, cost 1000 rubles.

5. Permatex is a manufacturer that produces high-strength sealants. Permatex materials are not afraid of strong vibrations and a wide range of temperatures that can be observed in industrial workshops. Permatex sealant is suitable for sealing connections of pumping stations, cylindrical blocks of gearboxes.

6. Tangit is a sealant, which is presented in the form of a universal paste, which is sold in a convenient package along with a brush, with a volume of 50 mg. On average, the cost is 600 rubles.

7. Dirko – characterized by high strength properties, therefore it is more often used on an industrial scale and in the provision of car repair services. The composition can be applied even to dynamic parts without stopping the running workflow. Products from the manufacturer have several modifications and are capable of working even in extreme conditions or in everyday life.

8. Adhesive-sealant fixative No. 3 – intended for household use, has quick-acting properties. The anaerobic fixative sealant has a unique composition that allows it to be used for sealing joints in systems and assemblies of gas and water pipelines, heating pipes. It will protect elements from corrosion and fill minor pores and cracks on the surface.

Among the huge number of different sealants, you can also pay attention to the domestic brand “Unigerm”, imported compounds Elting, Abro, Quickseal, Uni-Fitt.

Disadvantages of sealant - where should you not use the product?

Despite the large list of advantages, the sealant has several important disadvantages. Firstly, pipes treated with the composition are quite difficult to dismantle or disconnect. Thus, connections fixed with FUM tape or tow are much easier to clean. In certain cases, anaerobic sealant can only be removed by directly heating the pipes with fire.

Secondly, the sealant is very expensive. There are often cases when buyers refuse this product precisely because of the price. At the same time, the composition is very economical, which more than justifies the money spent on it. Another disadvantage is the differences in the composition of products from different manufacturers. Therefore, before starting to process a compound, it is sometimes necessary to determine which sealant contains more of the active component.

Curing of the composition occurs only under special conditions

Do not forget that the application of sealant in the desired part of the plumbing unit must be carried out strictly according to the instructions. It is not recommended to use the composition in still wet compounds, as you will not get the desired result. Another important disadvantage of the product is the limitations on the diameter of the pipes being processed. The composition will be effective when working with parts with a diameter of no more than 8 cm. Connections of wider pipes will be less amenable to processing.

How long does it take for anaerobic sealant to dry?

Under conditions suitable for the substance, with a temperature of +15 °C and above, it will take 15 minutes for the sealant to completely harden. You can check the quality of sealing using slight pressure. If there are no leaks, you can add pressure up to 10 atmospheres. After a day, check the reliability with a pressure of 40 atmospheres. In order for the sealant to polymerize at air temperatures below +15 °C, it is necessary to use additional heating of the joints.

The composition sold is already ready for use; there is no need to further dilute the substance. The only thing that needs to be done first is preparing the surface, cleaning it from dirt, grease, moisture, and getting rid of rust.

On video: How to use anaerobic sealants?

How to use?

As mentioned earlier, anaerobic sealant cures very quickly. However, despite this, working with it is not difficult and even a beginner can cope with it. To achieve the desired effect, you just need to follow the instructions for using the product, because the sealant is sold completely ready for use and does not need to be pre-prepared or mixed with solvents. It is better to completely clean the working surface in advance, and then degrease it - this will enhance the reaction and the composition will set much better.

Instructions for use:

• We take the container with the composition and shake it thoroughly, thereby mixing the contents.
• Open the container and apply the product around the perimeter of the connection.
• Next, we completely screw in the elements to which the sealant was applied.
• The excess must be removed immediately, without waiting for the composition to dry.
• Let the sealant dry, leaving it for about half an hour (the gel dries differently, depending on the diameter of the joint being processed and the room temperature) and then check it under a pressure of 10 atmospheres. If the ambient air temperature does not reach + 15°C, the sealant must be heated. If after checking there are no leaks, then a day later you can test for functionality under a pressure of 40 atmospheres.

To ensure maximum bonding, the composition can be applied to both surfaces, that is, inside and outside. But this must be done carefully so as not to apply too much sealant. If plastic pipes are processed, they must be treated with a special activating agent before work. Quite often, a brush is included with the container, which greatly simplifies the application process.

Application

Usually the composition is sold in convenient packages or tubes with a special narrowed nose or neck, making it convenient to apply in doses. Some products come with a convenient brush for application. The procedure for using the gel includes the following steps:

• Preliminary shaking of the container or packaging.
• Carefully open the tube, uniformly apply the composition to the areas to be joined.
• Tight fixation of elements, maintaining static properties when fixed for 20-30 seconds.
• Elimination of excess composition.

To carry out plumbing work, in particular, installation of equipment, it is necessary to apply sealant both outside and inside, evenly distributing the substance over the surface. This is the only way to ensure a long service life and complete sealing. It is advisable to work with degreased and dry surfaces; they must first be prepared.

Advantages of anaerobic sealants

Anaerobic compounds have many advantages over traditional compactors:

• No additional materials are required for sealing; one composition is sufficient. If you use, for example, a sealant such as flax, you will need to additionally look for red lead and drying oil.
• The liquid composition completely fills the threaded gap and does not shrink, which after hardening ensures complete tightness. It is not prone to swelling; excess composition will simply be squeezed out during installation, which allows the use of these sealants when sealing joints made of fragile materials.
• Anaerobic sealants can be used in high temperature ranges.

• Easy to use. There is no need, as when using flax or FUM tape, to carefully wrap the sealant around the thread. Tightening is done by hand, without using keys, which guarantees the integrity of the seal and connection elements.
• Economical. Excess composition from the outer surface can be carefully collected and used to seal another area. After dismantling, when subsequently assembling the connection, it is not necessary to remove the old layer of sealant; you can apply a fresh compound directly on top of it.
• Environmentally friendly. The material is completely safe for human health. Anaerobic sealants can be used in potable water systems.

Tips and tricks

When choosing a sealant, it is better to rely on the following recommendations:

• Take into account the operating features, type of connection and thread of the parts.
• Select the appropriate composition for operation in the appropriate temperature conditions.
• Take into account the requirements for the strength of future joints.
• Features of the material to be worked with.

To prepare the work surface, degrease it and make it dry, you can use a solvent. You should carefully choose a sealant; it is advisable to choose compounds that are easy to use, environmentally friendly and economical in consumption.

Principles and mechanisms of action

When the initiating system interacts with the metallic material, radicals are formed and help remove oxygen to start the solidification process.

There are different metals, and the type of metal base determines how long the curing process will take. So it can take from 1-3 hours to 5-24 hours, so the item is put into operation taking into account such characteristics of the metal.

There are different metals, and the type of metal base determines how long the curing process will take.

How to remove anaerobic sealant

In some cases, during repairs, excess sealant is formed on the surface. The substance will not dry out in the presence of oxygen, so it can be removed immediately without any problems. There are times when it is necessary to remove the sealant after it has dried. Depending on the type of substance chosen, ordinary physical effort or special tools in the form of a wrench and a hair dryer may be required.

Removal of sealant is carried out in three main stages:

1. It is necessary to turn on the hair dryer and direct a stream of air to heat the joint.
2. After a while, the polymer will begin to crumble. Using a rag, you need to remove the remaining composition.
3. Using a wrench, you need to disassemble the threaded connection.

When reapplying the composition, it is not necessary to completely eliminate the remnants of the previous glue. This will not interfere with the creation of an optimal seal and will not reduce efficiency.

Anaerobic sealant, brief overview (2 videos)

Types and application of anaerobic sealants (20 photos)

Composition and properties

The composition of anaerobic sealant includes the following components:

• stabilizers;
• oligomers, monomers (acrylic);
• thickeners;
• dyes;
• plasticizers;
• initiating system.

The main properties of the sealant are as follows:

1. Resistance to lubricants, fuels, organic solvents, mineral oils.
2. Depending on the composition of the anaerobic sealant, the operating temperature varies from -60 to +300˚ C.
3. The composition hardens in 5-60 minutes. During this time, the initial strength of the connection is acquired, and the product is ready for use. The load should be very small. The part can be fully used 3 or 4 hours after joining the metal surfaces. Anaerobic sealants completely harden within a day (24 hours).
4. The composition is capable of withstanding 58 MPa of liquid pressure and 39 MPa of gas pressure.