Is RTV Anaerobic?
RTV sealants are commonly used in automotive repair due to their flexibility and ability to absorb vibrations. However, there is often confusion about whether RTV sealants can be classified as anaerobic sealants. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of RTV sealants and their curing process to determine if they can be considered anaerobic.
RTV Sealants: Flexible and Room Temperature Curing
RTV, which stands for Room Temperature Vulcanizing, refers to the type of sealants that cure at ambient temperature. These sealants react with the moisture present in the environment to undergo a curing process, ultimately forming a flexible rubber gasket. RTV sealants are commonly used to fill voids and imperfections on engine parts, providing a reliable seal.
Important Considerations for RTV Sealants
When using RTV sealants, several important considerations should be kept in mind. Firstly, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the surface before applying the sealant. Any old gasket material or debris should be removed to ensure a proper bond. Additionally, it is important to avoid applying the sealant into bolt holes, as this can interfere with the assembly process.
Furthermore, it is essential to note that RTV sealants are not suitable for use on high-temperature components such as oxygen sensors and exhaust manifolds. These sealants are designed to withstand the typical operating temperatures of an engine but may not be able to handle the extreme heat generated by these specific components.
Anaerobic Sealants: Metal Surface Curing
In contrast to RTV sealants, anaerobic sealants require the absence of air or oxygen to cure. They are commonly used when metal surfaces are involved, offering 100% metal-to-metal contact. This characteristic makes anaerobic sealants preferred for machinery assembly, where maintaining bolt tension and joint integrity is crucial.
RTV Sealants and Metal-to-Metal Contact
Although RTV sealants provide excellent sealing properties, they may not offer 100% metal-to-metal contact due to their high viscosity and fillers. These characteristics can limit the ability of RTV sealants to provide a completely tight and rigid bond between mating flanges. However, for many applications, the bonding strength provided by RTV sealants, typically up to 2.5 N/mm², is sufficient.
Conclusion
In conclusion, RTV sealants are not considered anaerobic sealants. While they share the property of curing at room temperature, RTV sealants rely on the presence of moisture to undergo the curing process. On the other hand, anaerobic sealants require the absence of air to cure and are commonly used for metal surfaces, providing 100% metal-to-metal contact.
Sources:
- Bonding in engineering Hints & Tips. “Gaskets: Anaerobics versus RTV Elastomers.” Retrieved from https://bonding-in-engineering.blog/2018/01/09/gaskets-anaerobics-versus-rtv-elastomers/
- FreeASEStudyGuides.com. “RTV Aerobic: Sealants in Automotive Repair.” Retrieved from https://www.freeasestudyguides.com/rtv-automotive-sealant.html
- METLOK. “Face Sealing – Anaerobic or Silicone Sealant – Tech Bulletin.” Retrieved from https://www.metlok.in/blog/face-sealing-anaerobic-or-silicone-sealant/
FAQs
What does RTV stand for?
RTV stands for Room Temperature Vulcanizing.
How do RTV sealants cure?
RTV sealants cure at room temperature by reacting with the moisture in the environment.
Can RTV sealants be considered anaerobic sealants?
No, RTV sealants are not considered anaerobic sealants. They cure in the presence of moisture, whereas anaerobic sealants require the absence of air or oxygen to cure.
What are the applications of RTV sealants?
RTV sealants are commonly used in automotive repair for their flexibility and ability to absorb vibrations. They are used to fill voids and imperfections on engine parts, providing a reliable seal.
Do RTV sealants offer 100% metal-to-metal contact?
RTV sealants may not offer 100% metal-to-metal contact due to their high viscosity and fillers. This can limit their ability to provide a completely tight and rigid bond between mating flanges.
Are there any considerations when using RTV sealants?
Yes, there are important considerations when using RTV sealants. It is crucial to clean the surface before applying the sealant and to avoid applying it into bolt holes. Additionally, RTV sealants should not be used on high-temperature components like oxygen sensors and exhaust manifolds.
What are the advantages of anaerobic sealants over RTV sealants?
Anaerobic sealants offer 100% metal-to-metal contact and are preferred for machinery assembly. They provide excellent bonding strength and are designed for use on metal surfaces.
Can RTV sealants withstand high temperatures?
RTV sealants are designed to withstand the typical operating temperatures of an engine. However, they may not be suitable for use on high-temperature components that generate extreme heat, such as oxygen sensors and exhaust manifolds.