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Adhesives and your model train layout |
ABCs of adhesives
by Jeff Wilson
Hot glue doesn't provide the neatest joints, but its quick curing makes it useful for placing objects in hard to reach places. Click on the photo to see the terminal block being glued to the underside of a layout.
| | Standard rubber cement, such as Elmer’s, is handy for applying paper such as signs to structures and billboards or photos to backdrops. Spread a thin coat on each surface to be joined. Wait at least five minutes, or until the glue is no longer tacky, before pressing the parts together. The resulting bond will be strong.
Walther’s Goo and Goodyear Pliobond are heavy-duty rubber cements. They can be used on paper, cardstock, metal, and other non-porous materials, and they are about the only thing that will stick well to engineering plastics such as Delrin. However, the solvents in them can react with and distort styrene plastic.
Hot glue is useful when you have a medium-size to large joint that you want to bond quickly. Hot glue can be used on wood and cardboard as well as non-porous materials, but it can melt or distort styrene.
Spray adhesives, such as 3M Super 77 or photo-mounting sprays, are good for securing paper, mat board, or other thin material over large surfaces. Be sure that both surfaces are perfectly clean, because even a small dust speck can distort the surface. Be certain of your alignment, because you only get one chance to get it right.
Construction adhesives, such as
Liquid Nails, are handy for large surfaces and for tracklaying. Several types are available; Liquid Nails for Projects is among the best choices for extruded polystyrene foam, and others are made specifically for drywall, wood, and other construction materials.
Don’t be confused by the vast array of glues at your disposal. Knowing which one to use can save time and trouble and result in stronger, better-looking models.
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the copyright of Kalmbach
Publishing Co. |
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