Metal Models

On occasion I find myself fighting with assembling a metal model and I was wondering what the best glue to use would be. I am currently using the gorilla glue super glue, but I have to hold pieces together for over 5 minutes for it to bond enough that I don't have to hold it any longer. I assembled a Warmachine Harrower last night by combining the gorilla super glue and the normal gorilla glue, as it was the only way to get the bond to take quickly. I've also had to use green stuff to hold the Harrower to its base since its a very top heavy model.

I usually use super glue, but for some problematic models I use two-part Epoxy. Takes forever to dry but it very strong.

As for your bonding problem, superglue reacts with moisture in the air to form its bond. One of the only problems with living in an arid climate is our superglue takes longer to "set". And now you also know why superglue doesn't stick to the inside of the bottle.

You could speed up the process somewhat if you put the glue on each part and then leave them exposed to the air for ~30-60 seconds. Then press them together firmly and they will set faster.

I will try doing that in the future and see what transpires. Thanks for the advice.

I found a trick that helps the glue set faster; misting a small amount of water on the area to be glued.

You now wield the power of chemistry. Use it wisely.

pyroknight wrote:

You now wield the power of chemistry. Use it wisely.

haha!

Be careful with the water trick. It makes the bonds just a bit more brittle.

morsious wrote:

Be careful with the water trick. It makes the bonds just a bit more brittle.

I've noticed on 2 of my smaller models that occurring, so I use very little water with the glue now.