Surface Preparation

Proper surface preparation is essential to ensure optimal performance of TEC7 adhesive products and to guarantee a strong, durable bond.

Step 1: Remove as much loose dirt and dust as possible with a brush or cloth.

Step 2: Begin by thoroughly cleaning and degreasing the surface. Select the appropriate cleaner from the options below based on your application requirements.

Prepare & Finish

Safest “final wipe” for almost everything — pH neutral, safe on every surface, compatible with every type of adhesive/sealant, removes fine dust, grease and finger marks, and supports perfect bonding.

Choose Prepare & Finish when…

• The surface is delicate or unknown and you want maximum compatibility (pH neutral, safe on every surface).
• You also need a finishing spray for tooling/smoothing sealant joints (it’s designed for prep + finishing).

Use

• Spray the surface. When gluing, treat both surfaces.
• Leave for 30 to 60 seconds.
• Rub away the loosened contamination with a clean microfibre cloth.
• Allow to evaporate for a few minutes before applying adhesive or sealant.

Always test on an inconspicuous area for colour fastness.

Tec7 Cleaner

Stronger solvent-style clean when contamination is stubborn or chemical.

Pro Tip: Always have a can of Tec7 Cleaner and paper towel nearby so any stray X-Tack can be wiped away easily while still wet.

Choose Tec7 Cleaner when…

• Contamination is chemical or stubborn (e.g., heavier oils, residues that need longer dwell time).
• You need to degrease and clean non-porous surfaces.
• You want a cleaner that evaporates without oily film and is gentle on light metals (no oxidation).

Use

• Spray Tec7 Cleaner on the surface that is to be bonded to.
• Allow Tec7 Cleaner to take effect.
• Rub off the contaminant with a clean microfiber cloth and dry.
• Allow Tec7 Cleaner to evaporate completely prior to bonding.
• If necessary, repeat the process.

Always test on an inconspicuous area for colour fastness.

Tec7 Multiclean

Quick and safe to use with visible foaming action — ideal for vertical, overhead and smooth applications. Contains no abrasives, is acid-free and safe on all materials.

Choose Multiclean when…

• You’re dealing with everyday grime and want a quick, safe foam clean.
• You’re prepping for adhesive, paint, or varnish and the contamination is natural soiling.
• You need a safe, powerful cleaner and degreaser that draws deeper contaminants to the surface and is suitable for use in everyday environments — cleaning mirrors, windows, doors, furniture, imitation leather, hard synthetic materials, stainless steel, enamel, plastic, formica, tiles, carpeting, and more.

Use

• Shake well before use.
• Spray over the substrate.
• Allow approx. 15 seconds for foam to take effect.
• Wipe off the contaminant with a clean microfiber cloth and allow to dry.

Always test on an inconspicuous area for colour fastness.

Step 3: Ensure that the cleaner has fully evaporated before bonding.

Step 4: Prepare the Nozzle

Do not cut off the spout. The integrated V-groove is designed to dispense the correct quantity of adhesive and form the optimal bead profile. The base of the adhesive bead should measure 9–10 mm.

Step 5: Apply at 90° Angle

Hold the V-groove spout at a 90° angle to the bonding surface while applying. This ensures the correct triangular-shaped bead is formed.

Step 6: Apply the Adhesive

Apply X-Tack in continuous vertical beads to achieve maximum bond strength and optimal curing performance. Do not apply X-Tack in dots.

Pro Tip – For smaller applications: Tec7 Professional cartridge guns are recommended due to their 1:18 compression ratio.
For larger applications: A cordless caulking gun is recommended.

Step 7: X-Tack Spacing

The number of beads required will vary according to the substrate and the size of the bonding surface. In general, Olmurtech recommends spacing adhesive beads approximately 10–20 cm apart, depending on the weight of the material and the substrate type.

Adjust bead quantity accordingly to ensure sufficient support and adhesion. For larger, heavier, or more complex applications, professional advice may be required to determine correct quantities and application techniques.

Many Olmurtech Tec7 resellers provide installation guides with specific instructions for common applications. Refer to these guides where available.

Step 8: Finishing

If necessary, remove any excess uncured X-Tack adhesive using Tec7 Cleaner.

Testing – Advice Prior to Application

Due to the wide variety of plastic materials and formulations available — and the potential for stress cracking — preliminary testing is recommended. Always test adhesion on plastics, powder-coated surfaces, exotic timbers, and bituminous materials as bonding performance may vary.

Please note that alkyd-based products may delay curing or drying times. Preliminary testing is advised due to the wide range of paints and varnishes on the market which can influence adhesion and curing performance.

X-Tack can be applied to wet surfaces. However, adhesion should always be tested in a small, inconspicuous area on both bonding surfaces prior to full application.

Refer to the TDS and SDS for further product information.

Still unsure which application method is right for your project? Different applications may require different preparation and application techniques to achieve the best results. If you have any questions or are unsure which method to use, please contact our team — we’re here to help you choose the best solution for your specific application.