Gluing metal to plastic is an essential step in many craft, repair, and construction projects, so you’ll definitely want to learn how to do it right. Our guide tells you the best way to glue metal to plastic with premium glue so you’ll be happy with your results.
Whichever type of glue you choose for gluing metal to plastic, make sure it can bond with your specific plastic and metal. For example, if the plastic is polyethylene or polypropylene, Loctite Superglue All Plastics can be used.
Also, the adhesive needs to withstand your project’s ambient conditions: if you are going to repair car parts, for instance, the adhesive must be suitable for outdoor use. Whether or not you need to fill gaps is another criterion you will have to consider when gluing metal to plastic.
Prepare your work area and surfaces. Also mark the areas which are to be glued
If you do not need to fill gaps, use a super glue that is specially formulated to bond with metal and plastic. Loctite Super Glue Liquid Professional is a fine choice for invisible repairs that delivers superior performance. Its pinpoint nozzle gives you extra control for fast and easy application on a variety of porous and non-porous surfaces.
Epoxies are better if you need to fill gaps when gluing metal to plastic. Loctite Epoxy General Purpose is a resilient adhesive for carrying out permanent repairs and filling gaps that bonds with metals and most plastics. Use it when you need the highest bonding strength.
Only a special adhesive for plastic and metal remains permanently strong
If you are a visual learner, watch this video on Loctite Super Glue Liquid Professional to see it in action before beginning your project.
- Gather your materials. You need your super glue, a cover for the work area, sandpaper, a sharp blade, water or acetone for clean-up, nitrile gloves, an apron, and any other protective equipment recommended in the product’s instructions.
- Stay safe. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear nitrile gloves and an apron when gluing metal to plastic. Avoid contact with your skin and wash your hands after use.
- Prepare the workspace. Cover your workspace to protect it against spills and drips.
- Prepare the surfaces. The surfaces to be bonded must be clean, dry, and free of residue. Roughen smooth surfaces with sandpaper (or, if required, a more heavy-duty implement) to improve adhesion.
- Pre-fit the pieces. All parts to be attached must fit tightly.
- Apply the glue. Apply the super glue to one of the materials to be bonded as stated in the product’s instructions. Stick the metal to the plastic, and hold both pieces in place according to the product’s instructions.
- Clean-up. Use tissue paper to wipe off excess adhesive. Clean up larger quantities of uncured glue by applying water to it, letting it cure, and then scraping it up. Note that doing so may damage surfaces.
Cut away cured adhesive using a sharp blade, or remove it using or boiling water or acetone. As acetone can damage plastics, test it before use.