8 Tips for Using Super Glue

by DoItYourself Staff

Super glue is an adhesive that is very strong and is used for permanent bonding between 2 surfaces. It is also very fast drying, which is why any user must exercise a lot of caution when using it. Super glue is available in many forms and brand names, the most popular of which are Super Glue® and Krazy Glue®. Super glue is primarily based on cyanoacrylate, which is an acrylic resin known for its adhesive strength. Super glue is used in innumerable applications pertaining to households, factories, aircraft, automobiles and electronics, to name just a few. Below are some tips that are useful during the use of super glue.

Choose the Right Product and Applicator

There are different types of super glue available, each of which is more suited to a particular surface such as wood, plastic or ceramic. Read the application instructions on the package properly before you buy the glue. There are different types of applicators available, such as a squeeze tube that you can use to apply the glue like a gel. You could also use a precision tip or a pen for minute detail, which is required for filling in cracks or similar jobs.

Cover the Surrounding Surfaces

Before you open the container or begin cleaning the bonding surfaces, cover all the surrounding surfaces with rag cloths. This will protect the surfaces from accidental spillage, which can be time consuming to remove.

Sand the Surfaces Beforehand

For better adhesion, it is advisable to sand the surfaces beforehand. If the surface has any paint or varnish, you must peel it off as well. Use fine grit sandpaper for a light sanding.

Clean the Surfaces Thoroughly

Before applying the glue, it is important to properly clean the surfaces. If the surface is dirty, the super glue will bond to the dirt and not the object itself. After you have finished sanding, wipe the surface with a damp cloth and let it dry. Ensure that the surface is clean of any grease or rust as well.

Use a Small Amount of Super Glue

Super glue is a very powerful adhesive that must be applied in very small amounts. The recommended quantity is 1 small drop for a square inch of surface area. Applying too much super glue will actually result in an inferior bond and will also increase the curing time.

Hold the Bonded Parts for about 30 Seconds

After you have applied the super glue, quickly bond the parts together and hold them for about 30 seconds. This will allow sufficient time for drying.

Let the Super Glue Cure over a Few Hours

Before using the bonded object, allow a few hours for the curing process. This will allow maximum strength and adhesion so that you will have a bond that will last a lifetime.