This article, like the entire column, was inspired to be written by a friend of mine who, together with his son, decided to assemble a model, though he hasn’t decided what yet.
And to his question: “What kind of glue should I buy?” I began to explain at length what model glues there are and how to use them. And so, I decided to post all my fabrications here. So, there are several types of glues for models. Conventionally, they can be divided into several groups.
Polystyrene adhesives
This group includes, for example,glue for models Zvezda or Akan companies also produce their adhesives from world-famous modeling companies, for example, Revell and Tamiya.
This category of adhesives is most widely used among modellers who make prefabricated plastic models. These formulations are based on butyl acetate. Over time, polystyrene glue may thicken; you can return it to its previous consistency by diluting it with butyl acetate.
The operating principle of this category of adhesive is based on melting the polystyrene surface, which will then be glued to another polystyrene surface. Subsequently, when two parts are connected, mutual melting of both surfaces occurs and particles of the substance penetrate from one half of the product to the other. Then, after the glue evaporates, the molten surfaces harden. The glued product can be used after a few hours, but for complete readiness it is better to wait a day. The product readiness time also depends on the thickness of the applied layer of glue. After complete drying, the product has very good strength adhesive connection. These adhesives have a significant drawback: they only glue polystyrene. For example, they are no longer able to glue plexiglass either with plastic or with itself. Dichloroethane can be used for these purposes. You can buy it in stores for radio amateurs. A 30 ml bottle like this costs 30 rubles.
The substance is very toxic and harmful, but if you work with it carefully, then this glue is quite suitable for use. It is necessary when, for example, you need to glue a canopy drawn from plexiglass to a fuselage made of polystyrene, or it is well suited for making by dissolving pieces of polystyrene in liquid.For beginning modelers to build their first plastic models We can recommend adhesives of this particular group. Specifically, it will fit perfectlyglue for models Zvezda company, as it is the cheapest and very accessible.
Superfluid adhesives.
This category of adhesives is characterized by increased fluidity and penetrating ability. The principle of operation is the same as the above compounds. This glue is good for working in hard to reach places, you can glue cracks, etc. It leaves virtually no marks on the surface of the model. This type of model adhesive dries quickly, so you need to work with it quickly. For ease of application, it is best to use a brush. The composition is based on the same butyl acetate, so for work you can use this substance in the absence of proprietary superfluid glue. And on sale you can find an inexpensive composition from the Akan company - superfluid model glue Akan-profi.
Glue for transparent parts.
It is designed for gluing transparent parts. It often happens that when installing a lantern, as luck would have it, glue flows onto the transparent part and you have to remove it and polish the part. To avoid such troubles, there is a special adhesive composition. Its principle is not based on melting parts, but on using a base; in a liquid state it is cloudy- white, which becomes transparent when dried. This composition is applied to the surfaces of the parts and after 10-15 minutes they are connected. Representatives of this category are Aqua glue for transparent parts from Akan or the Micro Kristal Klear composition from Microscale.
Cyanoacrylate modeling adhesive (CA)
This group includes large number all kinds of superglues, which are even sold in stalls.
It is based onCyanoacrylate, a substance obtained back in 1942. It glues very quickly and quite firmly, but does not hold the shear joint well. The catalyst for CA glue is water, so when high humidity it hardens quickly and does not store well. For long-term storage conditions with low humidity and low temperature from +5 to +10°C are needed. IN living conditions A refrigerator is suitable for this. The quality of the glue depends on its purity; the more cyanoacrylate and fewer impurities, the higher the strength of the product being glued. This type of adhesive is used for gluing Resin Kits (add-ons to resin models), assembling full resin models, assembling photo-etch and gluing it to the polystyrene parts of the model. It is also widely used in the construction or repair of radio-controlled models. It is very convenient in the field when repairing a model due to the speed of drying and strong connection. Some modellers use cyacrine as glue for plastic models. Cyacrine glues also vary in thickness; the thinner the glue, the faster it hardens.
Therefore, if you want to correct a part or move it during the installation process, it is better to use a gel. There are also activators and retarders that allow you to speed up or slow down the process of gluing the product.When working with cyanoacrylate, you should try not to inhale its vapors, as they can cause irritation to the mucous membranes. In case of contact with skin you may get allergic reaction. Contact of cyacrine with cotton fabric is also dangerous. When they interact, heat is generated, which can lead to burns or even fire. To make it easier to work with a large-capacity tube, you can put a syringe needle on the spout. With each subsequent use of cyanoacrylate glue, the needle is warmed up well, for example with a match or lighter, and the substance is again ready for use.
Epoxy adhesives
The principle of their operation is that the epoxy resin hardens under the action of a hardener, forming a strong connection between the parts. This type of adhesive is well suited for the construction of radio-controlled models; home renovation, manufacturing individual components and parts of the model by molding them from fiberglass. Some epoxy resins allow you to make entire models from them and clone parts. Use epoxy resin asglue for models made of plasticit won't work, because of chemical features polystyrene, the cured resin will not stick to the plastic. Epoxy adhesives are well suited for models made of wood, resin and fiberglass, for installation metal parts to the above materials. The curing time of epoxy glue depends on its type and brand, it can be from one hour to a day. Heat exposure reduces this time. Before starting use, you must read the instructions for use of the specific composition. So different epoxy adhesives divorced in different proportions(resin/hardener). For example, EPD epoxy resin is diluted in a ratio of 1:10, that is, one part of the resin (the contents of a large bottle) is one part of the hardener (the contents of a glass bottle).
But the epoxy glue “Moment” Super Epoxy is diluted in a 1:1 ratio, that is, one part of the glue is one part of the hardener. For ease of use, both tubes are made in the form of syringes, which are convenient for squeezing out the same amount of compounds.
Glue for paper models
A separate type of modeling is paper and cardboard models. There are some peculiarities in work, assembly and painting. For example, PVA glue is best suited for assembling such models. It is usually a thick, white, practically odorless liquid. To achieve the required density, PVA can be diluted with water. But if it has completely hardened, then, unfortunately, it can no longer be diluted. You can also use PVA glue to glue wood or veneer, for example, when building bench wooden ship models. Before using PVA, it is necessary to shake or mix thoroughly, as the composition will separate over time.
All of the above adhesives, except PVA, are quite toxic and should be worked with in well-ventilated areas, avoiding contact with the mouth and eyes. But if this happens, they need to be washed immediately running water and then it is advisable to consult a doctor. On the other hand, if safety precautions are strictly observed, there will be no harm to health. Therefore, before using anyglue for models It is necessary to read the instructions for use and strictly follow the prescribed precautions.
It is very difficult to find good quality glue that would glue two plastic surfaces very quickly and lasted for a long time. In order not to look for a reliable manufacturer and not throw it away various brands glue money, make glue yourself.
We invite you to watch a video on how to make glue for making plastic parts yourself at home, using scrap materials.
To make glue for plastic, we will need:
- technical acetone;
- foam plastic;
- a small glass bottle;
- electrical tape;
- polystyrene shavings.
Pour acetone into a bottle. We need to fill the third part of the bubble.
Add a little polystyrene foam to a bottle of acetone. You don’t have to crush the foam into small pieces; under the influence of acetone it will dissolve on its own. All we need is a piece that is the size of our little finger.
We cut several of these pieces of foam with scissors and dissolve them in a vial in acetone. No matter how much foam you add there, it will dissolve, and the liquid inside the jar will be cloudy in color.
After you have dissolved everything, the jar must be sealed tightly. To do this, tape the lid to the jar with electrical tape.
Next you need to make polystyrene additives. As an example, the photo shows you glue made from acetone, polystyrene foam and polystyrene.
Let's return again to our not yet finished glue. All we have to do is add some shavings to it, which were taken from a bush of plastic polystyrene.
Fill a jar with acetone and polystyrene foam with shavings and let it dissolve. Don’t forget to make the jar airtight and wrap everything with electrical tape again.
— your guide to the world of scale modeling!
Work on a large-scale prefabricated model consists of a continuous connection of individual work stages - elements of construction and assembly. Just like an airplane is created at an aircraft factory. First one stage, then another. At the largest aircraft factories in the world (such as Boeing), the aircraft is generally located on a platform that continuously moves during assembly (from the beginning of the assembly shop to the finish).
And if we want to get really standing model — we need to improve the efficiency of everyone individual element assembly process. After all, if one element is bad, then maximizing the subsequent ones is much more difficult. If it makes sense at all.
Often a large number of shortcomings are caused by insufficient elaboration of the previous stages.
For example, you can spend all your nerves removing the joints of parts - glue seams, preparing the model body for painting. Often after such work it will be necessary to use a primer.
All this could have been avoided initially quality gluing of parts. So that the joint turns out neat, connection durable, and the seam - inconspicuous.
BUT HOW TO DO THIS?
Here you will need to use different types of adhesives.
In general, until a certain time I did not suspect the existence various types adhesives used in scale modeling. Typically using the simplest basic type of glue. The one we used to glue models back during the Soviet Union. And I didn’t pay any attention to the fairly rich assortment of model adhesives in online stores.
And only after taking a closer look at the work of Japanese modelers in the video materials of the Tamiya company - Tamiya Custom, I decided to look into this issue in more detail. I looked at what exactly they were doing. What adhesives are used and at what stages. Then I bought a little of all the glues. And started experimenting.
Several models have been used up different manufacturers to account for differences in plastic. After all, for example, Italeri’s plastic is different from Zvezdovsky’s. And the same Revell.
It turned out that all adhesives have their own specialization. This significantly improves the quality and efficiency of work. You just need to know the features of the composition and use of each individual glue. And break down the assembly process into appropriate elements in advance - subassemblies .
So, let's look at all types of glue in order. And we will start from the very beginning level.
 |
 |
| Glue for plastic models: Regular composition |
GLUE FOR ASSEMBLY MODELS: REGULAR
This type of glue is known to every modeller, because familiarity with the creation of prefabricated plastic scale models it starts with him. As a matter of fact, until a certain point this type of glue was used by modellers. Much later, Japanese manufacturing companies introduced other specialized types of glue into their product range.
In the Soviet Union, later Russia, most modelers (especially modelers mediocre, who collect models from time to time) use only it in their work throughout their many years of practice.
Therefore, this type of glue can be designated as universal standard .
Its main components are butyl acetate + polystyrene. Bonding is achieved due to the combined effect of the two types of action.
The first is the partial dissolution of the plastic on both bonded surfaces. When we connect the surfaces to be glued together and then leave them to harden, the dissolved plastic mixes with each other, connecting the edges of the parts together. The result is a “solid, single piece.” The joint is solid and durable. Ready for further processing.
This effect is also called welding effect .
The second is the additional fastening of parts with polystyrene particles included in the glue. They strengthen the molecular bonds in the dissolved plastic, helping to form a new solid compound.
The peculiarity of using this type of glue is that it is applied to the surfaces to be glued before joining the parts. Those. You must first apply glue to each joint surface. And only then put them together. For the gluing process to proceed better, it is necessary to give the glue time to dissolve the plastic of each part separately. Wait 1-2 minutes. And only then connect the parts.
WORKING CHIP
While working on a model, many modellers have to deal with the situation of a thin, shallow recess appearing at the site of the glue seam. This is possible when the surfaces are not sufficiently prepared and the edges of the parts to be glued have an angle other than 90 degrees.
To avoid such troubles that border on the use of putty after drying, you need to do the following. During gluing, it is necessary not only to connect the parts, but to press them tightly against each other. Press one part onto another. As a result, the melted plastic will come out. Having fixed the parts in this position, leave them to dry. Then simply remove excess plastic from the joint surface with a modeling knife. And that’s all - the glue seam has an excellent shape that does not require additional processing.
There is one condition. You need to practice in advance unnecessary details. Different plastics from different manufacturers have differences in their structure. Therefore, the same pressure force can cause completely different effect. If you apply too much pressure, you can easily ruin the details of the model.
As always, caution and accuracy are important here. And preliminary preparation
GLUE FOR ASSEMBLY MODELS: SUPERFLUID
In general, the name of this type of glue should sound like “glue with increased capillary effect.” This is a liquid adhesive with very high penetrating ability, good volatility, high fluidity, without a consistent filler (gluing is achieved by partially dissolving the plastic on the surfaces to be bonded).
The main advantage of this type of glue is the possibility of penetration - flowing into the joint between folded parts . In other words, when working on a model, you connect the parts together and run a brush with glue along the joint. And thanks to its high fluidity, it independently penetrates into the joint. The action of this glue is fast. The welding effect appears very quickly. You won’t have to wait long for gluing and hardening either.
Often this glue is supplied in containers with a built-in brush. But if you use Akan Pro glue, you will need a brush. An ordinary brush, preferably synthetic. One or zero.
One more interesting feature highly fluid adhesive is that when it gets on the surface of the plastic, it leaves virtually no traces when it hardens. It quickly evaporates, leaving behind a cloudy, rough surface. Which is not critical for further painting, and does not require a primer.
I would like to say a special word about the Akan Profi glue. It also belongs to the category of high-fluidity. But working with him means high degree caution. He - " nuclear". It not only easily penetrates the plane of the joint of parts, but also very actively dissolves plastic. If you pour this glue onto a surface with potholes and uneven surfaces, it will cope with the leveling task better than putty. He Very good dissolves plastic. Tested on Ital and Zvezda.
Also, when using it, you must be careful not to spill it on the model. Pro only in very small doses does not leave any imprints. Even a medium-sized drop can be enough to form a molten recess.
It took me a long time to get used to this glue, but I liked its power. So I experimented further. Then, having found out its features of application in practice, I made it the main working glue in the process of assembling models.
In general, on at the moment, high flow glue is essential for me when working on a model. Be it Akan Pro, or Tamiya ExtraThin Cement. I use regular glue only for joining large parts.
GLUE FOR ASSEMBLY MODELS: TRANSPARENT
In general, having considered the above types of glue, we could stop. After all, thanks to them we will be able to achieve solid results. But that would be wrong. There is another very specific type of glue.
T.N. "transparent glue" Its representative is “Contacta Clear” from Revell. Its only purpose is to glue transparent parts. Both with each other and with the plastic of the model itself. In fact, this is a variation of the same universal glue. Only there is no welding effect. Bonding is carried out due to the base, which becomes transparent when dry.
The glue is applied in a thin layer to the bonded surfaces of both parts. Then it needs to be allowed to dry for about 5-10 minutes (so that the adhesive layer is still sticky). Then we carefully press the parts to be glued together.
 |
 |
| Glue for plastic models: Cyanoacrylate all-purpose glue |
GLUE FOR ASSEMBLY MODELS: CYANOACRYLATE
Cyanoacrylate glue, better known as “superglue”, which is the translation into Russian trademark Super Glue. This is the name in former USSR has become a household name.
Super Glue was first developed in 1942 (during World War II) by American chemist Harry Coover, who worked for Eastman Kodak, during experiments to find transparent plastics for optical sights. However, the substance was rejected due to excessive stickiness. In 1951, American researchers, while searching for a heat-resistant coating for fighter cabins, accidentally discovered the ability of cyanoacrylate to firmly bond. various surfaces. This time, Coover appreciated the capabilities of the substance, and in 1958, superglue went on sale for the first time, “exploding” the market.
In Russia, superglue is also sold under the brands “Clayberry”, “Sila”, “Cyanopan”, “Skley”, “Secunda”, “Monolith”, “Elephant”, “Super-moment”, etc. In the USSR, the glue was produced under the name “ cyacrine."
Adhesives based on cyanoacrylates can easily withstand loads of 150 kg/cm2, and more advanced ones, such as Loctite’s “Black Max” - 250 kg/cm2. The heat resistance of the connection is low and is comparable to the heat resistance of acrylic plexiglass: from 70-80 °C for conventional adhesives, up to 125 °C for modified ones.
Cyanoacrylate is a strong, quick-setting, instant adhesive. Easily bonds non-porous and water-containing materials. It sets in less than a minute and reaches maximum strength after two hours. However, its shear strength is low, so superglue is sometimes used as thread lock or for holding a workpiece on a lathe.
Information from the Wikipedia portal was used.
In large-scale modeling, cyanoacrylate, thanks to its ability to glue structures that are completely different in their properties, has also found its place - it has occupied its niche. We use it to fix photo-etched products and conversions created from epoxy resin.
Often we use super glue purchased from print shops or hardware stores. At the same time, the range of model chemistry manufacturers has long included specialized cyanoacrylate model adhesives. Although essentially their difference is only in the special packaging, convenient for the work of the scale modeler. So there is not much difference between them. And what to use - everyone decides for themselves, based on personal preferences.
It is worth considering that super glue has two types of consistencies - regular and gel-like. The second is thicker, jelly-like. It makes it easier to apply glue exactly to the gluing areas, avoiding drips.
GLUE FOR ASSEMBLY MODELS: EPOXY
Finally, it is necessary to mention two-component epoxy adhesives.
Their main property is that epoxy resin, when mixed with a hardener, forms a strong and very durable connection between the parts. But in my opinion they didn't find wide application in the field of modeling using plastic prefabricated models.
This glue is suitable for wood and fiberglass models, wire parts, and photo-etching. But it is contraindicated for polystyrene models, since epoxy resin cannot adhere to plastic.
Epoxy two-component adhesives are also available in two versions - regular and modeling. One of the most interesting shapes packaging usual options Cyanoacrylate has Contact glue. The shape of the tube allows you to squeeze out both the resin and hardener from two sections in equal proportions in one movement. They are automatically mixed at the outlet. Of the special modeling options, I know only glue from Tamiya.
But again, personally, I don’t see the point in using epoxy in our business. If anyone sees it, please reflect your opinion in the comments. It will be of interest to all members of our community.
At this point we have covered all types of glue used in scale modeling. What types of glue to use is, of course, up to you to decide. But to achieve sustainable good result- the use of specialized tools is required.
Therefore, different model adhesives - BE !
That's all for today!
Good luck to you!
And wonderful models!
Did you like the article? Be sure to tell your friends:
Looking for more resources on this topic? Read:
Modeling is a fun and rewarding hobby for children and adults. By assembling models of cars, ships, airplanes with your own hands, your imagination and creative thinking, attentiveness and perseverance.
The choice of sets and individual parts in stores for gluing models is large, so it won’t be difficult to find interesting ideas for yourself or your child.
It's a rare modeling process that can be done without glue. Manufacturers offer large selection options. Let's figure out what types of mixtures are suitable for this hobby.
Types of glue for assembling models
- Universal standard glue. It has been used since Soviet times for working with plastic models. It is based on polystyrene and butyl acetate. It works due to the so-called welding effect. First, the plastic partially dissolves on both surfaces when the edges of the parts are connected. After the connection between the parts and the composition itself hardens, a solid joint is formed, that is, the two parts become one. The polystyrene included in it also provides grip. A special feature of this glue is that it is recommended to apply it to the products before joining, that is, first the mixture must be kept for a couple of minutes on each part, and only then connect them.
- Superfluid glue. It is distinguished by increased penetrating ability and liquid composition. The parts are held together by partially dissolving the plastic. The advantage of this glue is its ability to penetrate between folded parts. Another important plus is that it leaves almost no traces after hardening, only a slightly rough, cloudy surface remains. This glue for airplane, car, and ship models sets very quickly. For ease of use, it is recommended to use a synthetic brush.
- The glue is transparent. Designed for working with transparent parts. The parts are held together not due to the welding effect, but due to the base, which becomes transparent when dried. The mixture is applied to the surfaces of the parts for 5-10 minutes and then combined.
VIDEO ON THE TOPIC
- Cyanoacrylate glue. In our country it is better known as superglue or Super Glue. It was invented in the USA during World War II by a scientist looking for transparent plastics for optical sights. The substance was not used then; this only happened in 1951, when the Americans needed a heat-resistant coating for the cabins of military aircraft. Then, after another seven years, the composition hit store shelves and literally amazed everyone. Today it is produced under the brands “Clayberry”, “Second”, “Monolith”, “Super Moment” and others. This is an instantly setting adhesive; maximum bond strength is achieved after two hours. Suitable for working with porous and moisture-containing materials. In modeling it has taken a leading place, as it allows you to fasten parts from different materials. In stores you can buy super glue of regular and gel consistency. The second option is more convenient to apply, as it does not spread.
- Epoxy glue. Epoxy resin when mixed with a hardener, it holds items made of fiberglass, wire, and wood well, but dissolves parts made of polystyrene. Epoxy two-component adhesives are presented not only in ordinary tubes, there is also packaging specifically for modeling. For example, with “Contact” glue, you can squeeze out both the resin and the hardener at the same time, and they will be mixed in a special compartment in equal proportions.
The choice of modeling tools is very large. Let's look at the most popular ones.
Models of any complexity are made from plastic - airplanes, ships, cars. High-quality glue for this material should not spread over smooth surface, so it must be selected carefully.
There are many manufacturers producing adhesives specifically for plastic. So, you can safely use polystyrene compounds from Revell, Italeri, Tamiya, Zvezda. Despite the similarity of properties, they can be divided into three groups:
- Liquid - sold in polyethylene bottles with a convenient applicator.
- Medium density - presented in glass jars with a brush on the lid.
- Thick ones are packaged in tubes. They harden the slowest, so they allow you to work without rushing.
- You should not add too much mixture to the junction of parts; you risk staining your hands, tools and the parts themselves with the leaking excess,
- if a drop gets on a part, do not try to wipe it off, wait until the composition dries and sand this area,
- the liquid glue should not get under the masking tape, otherwise after completing the work and removing the film, you will find that the plastic underneath has “floated”,
- the place where the super glue is connected turns out to be fragile, so it is better not to touch it, you can additionally degrease it,
- follow the instructions for use indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging,
- use the products strictly for their intended purpose and only for the materials for which they are intended,
- When working with toxic compounds, it is recommended to use protective gloves.
If you are interested in creating plastic models (airplanes, cars, ships), then you are probably looking for high-quality plastic glue. After all, it must adhere well even on a smooth surface, and this is not always easy to achieve.
Purpose of glue
When gluing parts of a product, appropriate model glue is most often used to fasten plastic elements. With its help, you can easily make any fantasy of assembling an airplane from a variety of parts into reality.
Anyone who wants to receive quality assembled model, as in the photo, tries to carefully finish and work out every detail. If an error is made when assembling any element, then the entire structure will look sloppy or become insufficiently stable.
Types of glue
So, you have purchased everything you need plastic parts and spare parts for your future model, all that remains is to assemble it. What glue to choose for airplane models?
Many masters prefer Russian manufacturers. One of these is a special glue for plastic models called “Star”, used for assembling products. But do not rush to immediately purchase the proposed product; first, decide on the type of material from which your design consists. It could be:
- cardboard or paper;
- resin parts;
- plastic parts;
- metal parts.
Now let's move on to the next step - we will decide on the means of fastening parts of the product from different types material. The model can be glued using the following types of glue:
- Polystyrene - designed for work based on melting plastic parts.
- Water-based adhesives.
- Cyanoacrylic.
- Products based on epoxy resin.
These are the most common options for fastening model spare parts by connecting them. Today, glue for plastic models is so widespread that it can be purchased at any specialty store.
Types of products for plastic
There are a large number of companies engaged in the production of glue exclusively for plastic structures. The polystyrene type is perfect for assembling models. Manufacturers such as Zvezda, Tamiya, Italeri, Revell and others are actively involved in its production.
But they are all similar in their properties. However, depending on density, they are usually divided into groups:
Liquid - are produced mainly in polyethylene bottles and have a special applicator that makes the work easier. Examples: Italeri, Faller, Zvezda, Humbrol, Revell, Auhagen and Tamiya.
Medium density - produced in durable glass vials, the kit also includes a brush-shaped applicator on a cork.
Thick - available in small tubes. The main advantage is that this glue dries much longer than others, which allows you to work slowly and not think about how to replace a poorly glued part.
As stated earlier, polystyrene glue operates on the principle of melting plastic. In other words, when applying the “Star” or other product, it tiny particles penetrate inside the surfaces to be glued and then harden, thereby bonding the plastic parts of the model. The spare parts finally dry out after a day, but they can be used after 60-120 minutes.
Revell glue manufacturers make special cans with a needle to ensure maximum ease of use. You can see how to use it in the video. Tamiya makes brush cans. Thus, the bottle can help you out if you are dealing with crevices. But the Zvezda adhesive does not include any other device in its kit to make it easier to use.
Other types
As for other glue options, their use when connecting parts of a plastic model is quite doubtful. For example, a product designed for bonding paper parts is in no way suitable for bonding metal or plastic. The same can be said about other types of glue. Therefore, when purchasing this material, it is better to once again make sure which glue for plastic models is suitable for you.