Alternative to Super Glue

[jpringle819]

Does anyone have an alternative to super glue (CA)? I seem to have developed an allergy to it which leaves me with flu like symptoms for upto a week after using it. I use Revell Contacta for unpainted plastic parts but sometimes I need to fix painted or non plastic parts together.

[Eric Mc]

Two part epoxy gives a strong bond.

White PVA also works but does not bond so strongly.

[dr_gn]

I've heard of Gorilla Glue used for photo etch. No idea if it's a glue type or brand. Never used it, but might be worth investigating.

[DavidY]

It's a superglue brand. I use Zap-A-Gap quite a bit as it seems to stick anything

[jpringle819]

DavidY said:

It's a superglue brand. I use Zap-A-Gap quite a bit as it seems to stick anything

I currently use Zap and it is that which is causing me problems. Two part epoxy I find a bit messy and it is a pain to mix up every time I need some. It is also hard just to mix a small amount so a lot goes to waste.

[dr_gn]

jpringle819 said:

Does anyone have an alternative to super glue (CA)? I seem to have developed an allergy to it which leaves me with flu like symptoms for upto a week after using it. I use Revell Contacta for unpainted plastic parts but sometimes I need to fix painted or non plastic parts together.

I've started using canopy glue (PVA) for small painted details. It's very strong, but does have a bit of flexibility which can be a good thing for small details, especially if you catch them: they usually bend rather than snap at the joint.

[MartG]

Have you tried using some kind of filter mask when using superglue - could help avoid the problem

[jpringle819]

MartG said:

Have you tried using some kind of filter mask when using superglue - could help avoid the problem

I have the full organic and inorganic carbon filter type, which when I can get it to fit correctly and remember to use it works ok. It just isn't the most convenient thing to be wearing whilst modelling.

[Eric Mc]

I presume you've taken on board the other glues I and DrGn suggested.

[jpringle819]

Eric Mc said:

I presume you've taken on board the other glues I and DrGn suggested.

I have some PVA sat on my desk at the moment so will give that a try, I like the instant bond of CA glue though.

[Eric Mc]

Not all PVA glues are the same. Most don't form a particularly strong bond. However, I have found that Pacer 560, which is marketed as a canopy glue, gives the best bond.

Epoxy glues will give as strong a bond as cyanocrylytes and are almost as fast (usually 5 minute setting time). The main drawback is the fact that they are in two parts and need to be mixed.

[DIW35]

I don't think it's an allergy, but a natural reaction to being in close proximity to the fumes for an extended period.

I too suffered flu/cold like symptoms after a heavy bout of using CA, but found that by using it in moderation in a well ventilated area, and actively tryin gto avoid sniffing the fumes, I no longer had that problem.

[MartG]

DIW35 said:

in a well ventilated area,

Could be worth getting a desk fan, and setting it up so it blows the fumes away from you