How To Glue Lexan Together

How to Glue Lexan Together: A Comprehensive Guide

Lexan, a polycarbonate thermoplastic, is known for its strength and durability. But sometimes, you need to join two pieces together. This guide will walk you through the best methods for gluing Lexan, ensuring a strong and lasting bond. We'll cover the types of adhesives best suited for this task, preparation techniques, and application tips for a successful project.

Choosing the Right Adhesive for Lexan

Selecting the appropriate adhesive is crucial for a strong and durable bond. Not all glues are created equal, and some may even damage the Lexan surface. Here are some of the top contenders:

UV-Curing Adhesives:

• Strengths: These adhesives offer excellent clarity, high strength, and fast curing times. They’re particularly effective for joining Lexan because they create a strong, virtually invisible bond.
• Considerations: You'll need a UV light source for curing, and the bonding process must be conducted in a well-ventilated area. Proper surface preparation is essential for optimal adhesion.

Cyanoacrylate (Super Glue):

• Strengths: Cyanoacrylate glues are readily available, quick-drying, and offer decent strength. They're a good option for smaller repairs or projects where speed is important.
• Considerations: Cyanoacrylate glues can be brittle and may not be ideal for applications requiring high flexibility or impact resistance. Over-application can lead to cracking or a less-than-ideal bond. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Solvent-Based Adhesives:

• Strengths: Some solvent-based adhesives are specifically formulated for polycarbonate and can create strong bonds.
• Considerations: Solvent-based adhesives typically have longer cure times than cyanoacrylates or UV-curing adhesives. Proper ventilation is essential during application.

Preparing Lexan for Gluing

Proper surface preparation is just as important as choosing the right adhesive. Failing to adequately prepare the Lexan surfaces will significantly weaken the bond. Here's what you need to do:

Cleaning:

• Thorough Cleaning: The surfaces must be meticulously cleaned to remove any dirt, grease, oil, or other contaminants. Use a suitable solvent like isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to wipe down both surfaces thoroughly.

Roughening (Optional but Recommended):

• Increasing Surface Area: For maximum bond strength, lightly roughen the surfaces to be glued. This can be done with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 320 grit) or a Scotch-Brite pad. Be careful not to scratch the Lexan too deeply. Remove any dust particles after roughening.

Applying the Adhesive: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Apply a Thin, Even Bead: Use a toothpick or a similar tool to apply a thin, even bead of adhesive along the joint line. Avoid using too much glue, as this can weaken the bond.
2. Clamp or Secure: Clamp or otherwise securely hold the two pieces of Lexan together for the recommended curing time specified by the adhesive manufacturer. Proper clamping is vital for a strong bond.
3. Curing: Allow the adhesive to cure completely. The curing time will vary depending on the type of adhesive you've chosen. Refer to the product instructions.
4. Post-Cure (If Necessary): Some adhesives, especially UV-curing glues, may require post-curing with a UV lamp. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for optimal results.

Troubleshooting and Tips for Success

• Weak Bond: A weak bond could be due to insufficient surface preparation, improper adhesive application, or the use of an inappropriate adhesive.
• Cloudy Bond: This is common with some adhesives. Using a UV-curing adhesive can mitigate this issue.
• Choosing the Right Adhesive: Carefully consider the application and choose an adhesive that matches the required strength and durability.

By following these steps and selecting the correct adhesive, you can successfully glue Lexan together, achieving a strong and long-lasting bond. Remember always to prioritize safety and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Happy crafting!