Description
Plexus PC-120 is a chemical cleaner and conditioner used on aluminum and stainless steel parts before bonding with Plexus adhesives. It removes surface contaminants and leaves a thin active film that helps the finished bond hold up to long-term water and salt exposure. Parts can be bonded 1 to 3 minutes after application. A translucent red dye shows where the surface has been treated, so operators can confirm coverage before the adhesive goes down.
Key Product Details
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Cleaner and conditioner for metal bonding surfaces |
| Substrates | Aluminum, stainless steel |
| Carrier Solvent | Isopropyl alcohol |
| Color | Translucent red dye |
| Solids by Volume | 5% |
| Cured Density | 0.977 g/cm³ |
| Flashpoint | 55°F |
| Time to Bond After Application | 1 to 3 minutes at ambient temperature |
| Coverage | About 250 square feet per 500 ml |
| Application Methods | Wiping, brushing, or spraying |
| Shelf Life | 13 months unopened at 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) |
| Packaging | 1 quart (944 ml) container |
| Manufacturer Stock Number | IP120 |
| Chemical Concepts SKU | PLX-IP120 |
How to Apply PC-120
- Wipe excess oils and contaminants off the metal with a clean cloth first.
- Apply PC-120 in a thin, even layer across the full bonding area by wiping, brushing, or spraying.
- Let it dry slightly, then wipe away the excess.
- Check the red tint. A light red tint means enough conditioner is on the surface. A deep red, heavy coating means too much material is left behind and can weaken the bond.
- Let the surface dry, then apply adhesive. Parts can be bonded 1 to 3 minutes after application.
- Mate the surfaces within the working time of the adhesive being used.
PC-120 is often called a primer, but it does not work like one. It is not meant to build a coating on the metal. The thin film left after wiping carries enough active ingredient to do the job.
Plexus Adhesives Recommended for Use With PC-120
The PC-120 technical data sheet lists the following Plexus adhesives for metal bonding:
| Plexus Adhesive | Plexus Adhesive | Plexus Adhesive | Plexus Adhesive |
|---|---|---|---|
| MA300 | MA550 | MA920 | MA530 |
| MA420 | MA320 | MA830 | MA560-1 |
| MA310 | MA425 | MA832 | MA590 |
Salt Spray Lap Shear Data
Typical lap shear values from the PC-120 technical data sheet, tested at 37°C, 98% RH, and 5% salt. Values in MPa.
| Adhesive | Substrate | Control, With PC-120 | 2 Weeks Salt Spray, With PC-120 | 2 Weeks Salt Spray, No PC-120 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA300 | Stainless 304 | 22.0 | 21.1 | 3.9 |
| MA310 | Stainless 304 | 19.6 | 17.6 | 12.6 |
| MA420 | Stainless 304 | 18.6 | 13.7 | 12.6 |
| MA425 | Stainless 304 | 9.4 | 8.5 | 2.5 |
| MA300 | Aluminum 6061-T6 | 20.7 | 15.6 | 0.8 |
| MA310 | Aluminum 6061-T6 | 17.0 | 10.6 | 0.4 |
| MA420 | Aluminum 6061-T6 | 17.3 | 14.9 | 3.8 |
| MA425 | Aluminum 6061-T6 | 10.2 | 10.4 | 1.9 |
Test values vary with test method, approach, and speed. ITW Performance Polymers recommends testing all substrates with the selected adhesive under the anticipated service conditions.
Common Applications
- Surface preparation on aluminum before bonding with Plexus adhesives
- Surface preparation on stainless steel before bonding with Plexus adhesives
- Bonded metal assemblies that will see long-term water or salt water exposure
- Replacing a routine solvent cleaning step on metal bonding surfaces
- Production lines that need a visible check that surface prep was completed
Handling and Storage
- PC-120 is flammable. Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames.
- Keep containers closed after use.
- Avoid skin and eye contact. Wash with soap and water after skin contact. For eye contact, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
- Harmful if swallowed. Keep out of reach of children.
- Store unopened containers at 59°F to 86°F for a 13 month shelf life.
- Refer to the current safety data sheet for full PPE, handling, and disposal requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plexus PC-120 a primer?
It is commonly called one, but ITW describes it as a cleaner and conditioner. Unlike a primer, PC-120 is not meant to build a coating on the metal. A thin film left after wiping carries enough active ingredient. A heavy, deep red coating can work against the bond.
Which Plexus adhesives is PC-120 used with?
The technical data sheet lists MA300, MA310, MA320, MA420, MA425, MA530, MA550, MA560-1, MA590, MA830, MA832, and MA920 for metal bonding.
How long after applying PC-120 can you bond?
Parts can be bonded 1 to 3 minutes after the conditioner is applied at ambient temperature.
What metals is PC-120 used on?
Aluminum and stainless steel.
How much surface area does PC-120 cover?
About 250 square feet per 500 ml.
Can PC-120 replace solvent cleaning?
In many circumstances, yes. PC-120 acts as a cleaner to remove contaminants from the metal surface and can take the place of routine solvent cleaning. Heavy oils and contaminants should still be wiped off with a clean cloth first.
What is the shelf life of PC-120?
13 months in unopened containers stored at 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C).
Need Help?
Not sure whether your Plexus adhesive calls for PC-120, or bonding a metal that isn’t aluminum or stainless? Call (800) 220-1966 or email [email protected]. Browse the full Plexus adhesive line, other primers and accelerators, or our metal bonding adhesives collection.
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