If you need to glue PLA together as part of a 3D printing project, we’re here to help! This guide covers the best way to glue PLA, including product recommendations and application tips.
If you’re working on a 3D printing project, there’s a good chance you’re using PLA. This biodegradable plastic is a popular choice because of its low cost and versatility. It’s also very easy to use, making it perfect for people who are new to 3D printing.
So, you’re probably wondering – what’s the best way to glue PLA together? Creating the printed parts is just the beginning. You want to make sure you get the best possible results for your project, which means no weak bonds or messy glue.
To glue PLA together effectively, you have a couple of options – epoxy resin and super glue. Epoxy resin creates high-strength bonds quickly and is very durable. Also, while it requires a couple of extra steps compared to super glue – you must mix the components to create the adhesive – it’s still very straightforward to use.
However, if you’re considering using epoxy to glue PLA together, make sure you check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some epoxies heat up while setting and curing, and you don’t want to risk damaging the PLA.
While epoxy is effective, overall, the best way to glue PLA is with a super glue. Here are some of its advantages:
strong
durable
easy to apply
bonds and dries quickly
dries transparent
versatile
good value
For the best results, you should choose a premium product by Loctite. There’s a wide range of Loctite super glues, and each product offers different benefits. Most of them can be used to glue PLA together, as well as other kinds of plastics.
Our top recommendation for 3D printing projects is Loctite Super Glue Precision Max. It’s a high-strength adhesive that’s also extremely easy to use, thanks to its specially designed bottle and long, thin nozzle, which provides accurate control and precision. This makes it ideal for gluing small, delicate parts.
An additional advantage of Loctite Super Glue Liquid Control is that it dries transparent in a matter of seconds. You can glue PLA together quickly and neatly, assembling multiple parts and achieving a neat, professional finish.
In this section, we’ll show you how to glue PLA parts together with super glue. These are general tips that will work for most super glues, but always make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before you begin.
Remember to take safety cautions when using super glue. Keep the room well-ventilated, and if you get any glue on your skin, wash it off immediately.
Here’s how to glue PLA, step by step.
- Get ready. As well as the super glue, you’ll need some fine sandpaper. We also recommend gathering some tools for cleaning up – a sponge or cloth and warm soapy water.
- Prepare the PLA surfaces. Make sure the PLA parts you want to bond are completely clean and dry and completely close fitting. Dry-fit the parts before gluing, making sure they fit together closely.
- Apply the super glue. Apply a small amount of glue to one of the PLA surfaces.
- Press the PLA parts together immediately. Press the parts together and keep them in place for around 30 seconds until set.
- Wait for the glue to dry. Super glue dries quickly but can take up to 24 hours to cure fully. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your product for details.
Now you know how to glue PLA 3D prints! You can also use this technique for other PLA surfaces.