Have you ever seen a glue gun in action? It’s pretty cool! You can stick just about anything together with one. The only problem is that most people don’t know how to use them properly, which means they are not getting the best results and wasting the glue.
This article will show you how to get your money’s worth from your glue gun and how to use it on plastic the right way.
What is a glue gun?
A glue gun is a handheld device that uses an electric current to heat up a small amount of adhesive, which is then extruded from the nozzle in the form of a thin stream. Glue guns come in different sizes and power outputs, but they all work in more or less the same way.
How to use a glue gun on plastic?
The first thing you need to do is make sure that the surface of the plastic is clean and free of any dirt or dust. If there is any grease or oil on the plastic, the adhesive will not stick. Once the surface is clean, you can start applying the adhesive.
There are two ways to use a glue gun on plastic: direct application and indirect application. Direct application is where you place the glue gun directly over the area that needs to be glued and apply pressure until the adhesive sticks.
Indirect application is where you put a piece of paper or cardboard between the plastic and the glue gun, which acts as a heat shield and prevents the plastic from melting.
Useful tips for using a glue gun
Here are a few tips for getting the best results from your glue gun:
- Make sure the adhesive is evenly distributed on the surface of the plastic
- Do not apply too much pressure, as this can cause the plastic to warp or melt
- Keep the glue gun at a distance of about 2 inches (5 cm) from the plastic
What to do if the glue doesn’t work?
If the adhesive does not stick to the plastic, there are a few things you can try:
- Try applying more pressure until it sticks
- Increase the temperature of the glue gun
- Apply heat to the area with a hair dryer or heat gun
How to store a glue gun?
When you are not using your glue gun, it is important to store it in a safe place. Here are a few tips:
- Do not leave the glue gun plugged in when you are not using it
- Do not let the glue gun get too hot, as this can damage the adhesive
- Do not store the glue gun in a place where it will be exposed to sunlight or extreme temperatures
Summary
A glue gun is a handy tool that can be used to stick plastic together. It is important to use it correctly to get the best results. Follow these tips and you’ll be able to use your glue gun like a pro!
FAQs
Will a glue gun repair plastic?
A glue gun will not repair plastic, but it can be used to stick two pieces of plastic together.
How do you fix hard plastic?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to fix hard plastic will vary depending on the type of plastic and the extent of the damage. However, a glue gun can be used to fix small cracks and tears in plastic.
Can you use a glue gun on ABS plastic?
Yes, a glue gun can be used to stick ABS plastic together. However, it is important to make sure that the surface of the plastic is clean and free of any dirt or dust before gluing.
Can you use a glue gun on polycarbonate plastic?
Yes, a glue gun can be used to stick polycarbonate plastic together. However, it is important to make sure that the surface of the plastic is clean and free of any dirt or dust before gluing. Polycarbonate is a type of plastic that is particularly prone to heat damage, so you should apply the adhesive at a distance of about 2 inches (5 cm) and use indirect application.
Can you use a glue gun on silicone?
No, a glue gun should not be used to stick silicone together. Silicone is a type of plastic that is particularly prone to heat damage, so using a glue gun could cause the adhesive to melt. Glue guns should only be used to stick plastics together that have a similar melting point.
Is it safe to leave a glue gun plugged in?
No, it is not safe to leave a glue gun plugged in when you are not using it. The glue gun can overheat and damage the adhesive. It is important to unplug the glue gun when you are finished using it.
What should I do if the adhesive doesn’t stick?
If the adhesive does not stick to the plastic, there are a few things you can try:
- Try applying more pressure until it sticks
- Increase the temperature of the glue gun
- Apply heat to the area with a hair dryer or heat gun.