Gluing HDPE

[LDUBS]

I was at the Tap Plastic website looking at the cost for a piece of King Starboard for some new rod racks. I noted a product called "Poly-weld" that they say can be used as a structural glue joint on polyethylene like King Starboard. It is kind of interesting in that it requires the plastic be flame treated before it is glued.

Anyway, King Starboard is a nice product for various boat projects. Having a viable glue for the stuff makes a big difference, IMO.

Maybe this is old news to you guys. But I thought it was worth sharing.

 

[Jim]

Did you end up buying it?


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[GTS225]

That suggest it should be hot when glued. Interesting, as typically, HDPE won't stick to any glues. It can only be heat welded.

Roger

 

[DaleH]

Boy, I dunnoh ... but a glued Starboard-like joint is the LAST glued whatever I'd ever want to rely upon!

With that said ... "Flame treatment oxidizes the surface of polymeric materials to introduce polar reactive groups such as hydroxyl and carboxyl which improves surface free energy and consequently the wettability and adherability of their surfaces."

 

[LDUBS]

Did you end up buying it?


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Not yet. I was pricing the material. I'll head over to Tap plastics next week to pick put some Starboard. I won't need the glue for what I'm doing.

I tend to agree with Dale. While the video on the web site is pretty impressive, I don't think I would depend on that glue joint alone for anything really "structural". But still, it is nice to at least have a glue that will work with this stuff without a mechanical joint. Particularly if you want a waterproof or weatherproof joint.

GT225 - The flame treatment is apparently to change the surface molecules to accept the glue. They literally just apply the flame in a couple quick passes. Not enough to begin to soften or scorch the surface.

 

[Shaugh]

If you've never worked with 3M auto body tape you should probably try that....Not sure exactly how you are planning to attach pieces but that stuff is near impossible to tear apart and lasts forever outdoors.

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=359902738070777

 

[LDUBS]

I was probably not very clear (as per usual). I just noticed this HDPE glue while looking at something else and thought that I would share the info. My project does not involve glue joints.

Thanks Shaugh, I will file away the 3M molding tape for future use.