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Metal to metal

Gluing metal to metal: Quick tips for long-lasting results

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Gluing metal to metal is easier than you think. All you need is the right know-how, and of course the right adhesive! In this guide, we’ll show you the best way to glue metal to metal.

What you need to know about gluing metal to metal

You don’t need welding tools to attach two pieces of metal. For ordinary household repairs and DIY projects, you can use super glue to get the job done in no time at all.

But what’s the best way to glue metal to metal?

For small, flat metal surfaces, you can use a super glue like Loctite Super Glue Gel Control. It’s easy to apply and ideal for making quick repairs.

Glue is applied around a hole I a bicycle rim.
Loctite Epoxy creates permanent bonds and is extremely tough when bonding metal to metal and other materials

Simply squeeze out a small amount of glue to one of the metal surfaces, then press the two surfaces together for about 30 seconds. Afterwards, leave the object to dry for about 10 minutes, so the glue can reach maximum strength. That’s all there is to it!

Alternatively, if your priority is high strength bonding and you’re working with larger, heavier surfaces, we recommend Loctite Epoxy General Purpose for gluing metal to metal.

Although epoxy takes a little longer to prepare and apply compared to some other adhesives, it’s the best way to glue metal to metal for lasting results. 

Loctite Epoxy creates permanent bonds and is extremely resilient. It’s resistant to water, humidity and most solvents, so you can use it for just about any project indoors or outdoors. 

In addition, it’s a versatile product that’s compatible with a wide range of materials including wood, glass and ceramic. Once you’ve used Loctite Epoxy for gluing metal to metal, keep it on hand for your next project.

How to glue metal to metal with epoxy

Now that you’ve got the right glue, you need to know exactly how to glue metal to metal, so you get long-lasting results. Here’s how to complete the job with Loctite Epoxy General Purpose

Before you get started, remember to take the usual safety precautions. Work in a well-ventilated space and wear gloves.

A torn-off holder is pressed onto a bicycle rim.
With the right adhesive, any repair featuring metal will be quicker in the future

Here’s how to glue metal together, step by step:

  1. Prepare the surfaces. The metal should be completely clean and dry. Improve adhesion by roughening the surfaces with a scraping or sanding tool. Pre-fit the pieces.
  2. Open the epoxy. After opening the epoxy tube, cut the tips of the syringe. Then turn the syringe upside down and pull back the plunger, before pressing to expel the air.
  3. Prepare the epoxy. Apply equal parts of the resin and hardener to a disposable surface, like a piece of scrap paper. Mix the substances thoroughly for about a minute, using a mixing tool like a plastic stick. Afterwards, clean the tips of the syringe and close the epoxy tube.
  4. Apply the glue to the metal. 1-2 minutes after you’ve mixed the adhesive, apply a small amount to both metal surfaces.
  5. Bond the surfaces. Immediately press the surfaces together and keep them in position for about 10 minutes using a clamp or weight.
  6. Leave to dry. Ideally wait 24 hours before use, so the adhesive can fully cure and reach maximum strength.
  7. Clean up. Adhesive is easier to remove when it’s still wet, so quickly clean up any excess glue with a cloth soaked in acetone. If the adhesive has already cured, you can carefully remove it with a sharp blade.
     

As you can see, gluing metal on metal with epoxy is a simple, straightforward process. Just grab your glue and go!

Products used

  • Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix 1min

    Direct application with no measuring or mixing via self-mixing nozzles (included). Fast 1-min. set.

  • Loctite Epoxy Metal Concrete syringe FOP RGB
    Loctite Epoxy Metal & Concrete

    Anchoring bolts, railings and general repair of concrete, stone and cinderblock.

  • loctite quick set epoxy 25ml card
    Loctite Epoxy Quick Set

    Multi-purpose bonding of common materials such as wood, metal, ceramics, glass and tile.

  • loctite super glue gel control 4g tube
    Loctite Super Glue Gel Control

    Porous surfaces and vertical applications. No-drip Gel formula in pin-point Control™ applicator.

Expert Tip

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