In the world of orthotics, prosthetics, and specialist footwear, the quality of your adhesive can make or break the finished product. Aortha adhesives, are trusted by professionals for their reliability, versatility, and strength. Whether you’re manufacturing custom orthoses, repairing shoes, or assembling medical devices, choosing the right adhesive, and using it correctly to ensure your work stands the test of time.
Why choose Aortha Adhesive?
Aortha’s adhesive range is designed specifically for the demands of orthotic and prosthetic workshops. These products are formulated to bond a wide variety of materials, including EVA, leather, rubber, plastics, and foams. With the options for fast-drying, flexible, and high-tensile bonds, Aortha adhesives support both precision work and high-volume production. Their products are also toluene-free, making them safer for users and the environment.
Aortha Orthabond Contact Adhesive
Orthabond is a true workhorse in the workshop. This very high-strength, multipurpose adhesive is ideal for permanent bonding of materials such as EVA, leather, rubber, PU, cork, PVC, plastics, and textiles. Its versatility makes it a favourite among shoe repairers, orthotic technicians, model makers, and even artists. Orthabond is especially valued for its excellent heat resistance, which is crucial for post-bond grinding and finishing. It’s perfect for shoe repairs, attaching outsoles, bonding orthotic components, and even for crafts like bookbinding or saddlery. The adhesive forms a strong, long-lasting bond on contact, with no need for clamping, and is effective even on challenging materials like foams and plastics. For best results, apply a thin, even coat to both surfaces, allow to tack for about 15 minutes, and then press together for an instant, durable bond. Full strength develops over 24 hours, so allow time for curing before subjecting the bond to heavy use.
Aortha OrthaGrip Rubber Contact Adhesive
OrthaGrip is a premium-quality, natural rubber-based adhesive designed for applications where flexibility and durability are essential. It’s particularly suited for bonding rubber, leather, and textiles, making it ideal for footwear manufacturing, orthotic device assembly, and general shoe repairs. OrthaGrip stands out for its high initial strength and excellent heat resistance, ensuring a reliable bond that can withstand the rigours of daily wear. Its quick drying time—typically 5 to 15 minutes—makes it perfect for efficient workflows, while its mild yellow finish blends discreetly with most materials. OrthaGrip is also popular among set designers, costume makers, and upholsterers for its ability to bond stretchy fabrics and foams. For best results, apply to both surfaces, allow to tack, and press together firmly. The adhesive’s flexibility ensures comfort and durability in finished products, especially where movement and repeated stress are factors.
Aortha Actithin Solvent
Actithin is an essential companion in any workshop using neoprene adhesives. Over time, adhesives can thicken, making them difficult to apply evenly. Actithin is a high-performance solvent designed to thin neoprene adhesives, restoring them to optimal viscosity for smooth, effective application. It’s also an excellent cleaner, effortlessly removing adhesive residues from tools, work surfaces, and application areas. This ensures a clean, professional finish and helps maintain a tidy, efficient workspace. Actithin is compatible with a wide range of neoprene adhesives and is invaluable for preparing adhesives for use in custom orthotic devices or cleaning up after a busy day in the workshop. Always use in a well-ventilated area and follow safety guidelines, as with all solvents.
Best practice tips for bonding
- Surface Preparation: The foundation of a strong bond is clean, well-prepared surfaces. Always remove dirt, grease, and old adhesive using a suitable cleaner, such as alcohol. For smooth surfaces, lightly sand or roughen them to improve adhesion. Ensure all surfaces are completely dry before applying adhesive.
- Application Technique: Use a brush or applicator to spread a thin, even layer of adhesive on both surfaces. Avoid over-applying, as excess adhesive can squeeze out and create a messy finish. Allow the adhesive to dry until tacky—usually 10 to 15 minutes, but always check the product instructions for specific timings.
- Bonding and Curing: Once the adhesive is tacky, carefully align the surfaces and press them together. The bond forms instantly, so precision is key. Apply even pressure across the entire surface to ensure a strong, uniform bond. While contact adhesives bond instantly, full strength is achieved after several hours, so allow adequate curing time before putting the item into service.
- Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection. Store adhesives and solvents in sealed containers, away from heat sources and out of reach of children.
Choosing the Right Adhesive for the Job
Selecting the right adhesive depends on the materials you’re bonding and the demands of the application. For rigid, high-strength bonds on a wide range of materials, Orthabond Contact Adhesive is the go-to choice. For flexible, durable bonds on rubber, leather, and textiles—especially where movement is involved, OrthaGrip Rubber Contact Adhesive excels. And for maintaining adhesive performance and cleanliness in the workshop, Actithin Solvent is indispensable.
Why Professionals Trust Aortha
Aortha adhesives are engineered for reliability, safety, and ease of use. Their range covers every step of the orthotic and prosthetic manufacturing process, from initial assembly to final finishing. With technical support and a reputation for quality, Aortha is the trusted partner for professionals who demand the best from their materials and their results.
