May 1st, 2022

Aircraft sealants are essential for maintaining the quality and safety of aircrafts. These heavy duty adhesives are designed to reinforce and seal aircraft parts to improve the plane’s structural integrity and ensure it is safe for flight. Not only that, but sealants also help prevent against things like corrosion, fluid and dust intrusion, air leaks, and the spread of fire between compartments.

What are the Different Classes of Aerospace Sealants?

Most aircraft sealants are subject to PMA (Parts Manufacturer Approval) and the standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Aircraft sealants are separated into different classes based of their viscosity. The three main classes of aircraft sealants include:

Class A Aircraft Sealants

Class A sealants are a paste-like consistency and are applied by brushing. These sealants target fasteners in fuel tanks and other fuselage applications.

Class B Aircraft Sealants

Class B sealants are a thicker, non-flowing consistency. These sealants are usually applied with an extrusion gun and are used for fillet and injection seals.  

Class C Aircraft Sealants

Class C sealants are thinner consistency than Class B, much like a liquid. These sealants are usually applied with a roller and are used for fay sealing when joining two overlapping surfaces.

Where are Aircraft Sealants Used?

The sealant or adhesive you use will depend on what area of the plane it’s intended for. Sealants defined by their application include:

• Fuel Tank Sealants
• Cabin Pressurization Sealants
• Aircraft Window & Canopy Sealants
• Access Door Sealants
• Thread Sealants
• Firewall & Fuselage Sealants

How are Aircraft Sealants Applied?

Sealant application requires both time and precision. Proper application ensures the aircraft adheres to necessary performance requirements and increases the service life of integral parts and components. Each sealant has its own unique application process, however; general sealant application guidelines are as follows:

1. Remove existing sealant
2. Mix the sealant
3. Follow application instructions based on sealant type and target area
4. Allow adequate time and temperature for sealant to cure

Removing Aircraft Sealant

Before sealant can be applied, it’s absolutely crucial to remove as much existing sealant as you can in order for the new adhesive to reseal properly. Sealant removal used to be accomplished using hand scrapers, however, the process was extremely tedious and often lead to operator fatigue. Nowadays, sealant can be removed more safely and in less than half the time with rotary sealant removal tools. Used with a drill, rotary cutters are designed to quickly remove hardened sealant without damaging the aircraft.

Torlon® Composite Sealant Remover (CSR)

Marketing Masters partners with Bron Aerotech to bring you an innovative sealant remover tool, known as Composite Sealant Remover. This rotary cutter offers complete control while avoiding heat buildup, allowing you to target aircraft sealant directly at the bond line. Made from durable Torlon®, CSR offers 50% more longevity than plastic rotary cutters and will not scratch metal or paint.

Order Composite Sealant Remover Today

You can’t ensure a strong seal without a strong sealant removal system. Marketing Masters, in partnership with Bron Aerotech, offers the most efficient and longest-lasting sealant remover tool on the market. CSR is available in two sizes for general purpose sealant removal and fastener sealant removal. Visit the Bron Aerotech website to view additional product details or to request a quote. For more information, contact us or a Bron Aerotech Application Specialist today.