Best Glue for Resin Prints: Types, Usage, and Tips

For anyone who wants to create fine detail models with a smooth finish, resin 3D printing is a major development.  No matter which resin 3D printer you choose or if you try out UV resins, you’ll often find the need to glue pieces together. 

Sometimes a print breaks, or maybe you’re building a model with different pieces. The right choice of glue will lead to strong and clean resin prints. 

Today, we’ll look at why glue is important, the right types for UV resin prints, how to apply them, and some quick tips to enhance your work.

Common Uses for Glue in Resin Printing

Resin prints are valued for how precise they are, and this is especially true when they are made with a resin 3D printer. But even if your abs like resin are of high quality, you may still require glue for a number of reasons:

• Repairing Weak Spots: Resin prints often break, mainly when they are slim or easily breakable. If you break a piece, a bit of glue might rescue it.

• Assembling Multi-Part Models: Most big or complicated designs are printed as separate parts, which are then fit together later. They are bonded by glue.

• Additional Parts: Integrating small extras, such as bases or accessories, into your model is possible.

• Smoothing Seams: If you glue seams, it will help create a tidy and polished look.

Either type of resin is easy to use when you have the correct glue, which keeps your model sturdy and continues to look great.

Types of Glue Suitable for Resin Prints

There are glues that don’t stick to resin prints as well. Since UV resin and high-temp resin have a specific chemistry, the glues used should not damage the surface they’re bonding to. These are the best choices available:

1. Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate)

Many resin printers use super glue as their favorite adhesive. It isn’t sticky for long, creates a durable connection, and functions well with UV resin. Use gel-based polish for easier handling on your nails.

When you need strong glue, count on Loctite or Gorilla glue. Using super glue makes it very easy to fix or assemble models quickly.

2. Epoxy Glue

A strong bond is possible with epoxy, which is applied by combining the resin and hardener. This type of part represents a good idea for load-bearing components designed with ABS-like resin.

Even though epoxy takes more time to cure, it is both durable and can help fill small gaps. It’s best suited for assembly projects involving bigger structures or greater force.

3. UV-Curable Glue

UV-curable glue is suited to be used with prints made from UV resin. You finish applying the screen, then cure it under a UV light, the same type used in your resin 3D printer.

It grows together with resin fast, forming a nearly seamless layer. The glue works well on prints that are transparent or clear.

4. Hot Glue

Hot glue can occasionally be a choice for linking things for only a short period or unimportant pieces. Although it doesn’t bond as strongly as super glue or epoxy, apply it with care because it can cause a mess. Rapid prototyping is where this technique works best.

5. Plastic Cement

Plastic cement is meant for plastic materials and will work on ABS as well. The surface is slightly melted so that the parts become strongly bonded. It’s important to use it sparingly, because too much may damage the delicate sections made with UV resin.

Pick the glue that will do the job you need it for. Most UV resin prints can be strengthened reliably with your choice of super glue or epoxy.

How Can Glue Be Applied to Resin Prints

You shouldn’t have trouble using glue with resin prints, but you must take some simple steps to prevent errors. Here’s how you can start with a personal finance plan:

Clean the Surface: You’ll probably see oils or residue on your prints, as this can be common with water washable resin. Place the parts in isopropyl alcohol, let them sit for a while, and then dry them entirely.

Sand if Needed: If desired, apply sand lightly on the locations where the glue will sit for stronger results. Work the surface with fine sandpaper (400 to 600 grit) to create a rough pattern, but do not damage the wood.

Apply Glue Sparingly: Use only a little glue to stop it from getting everywhere. Put just a little super glue on for the best result. Mix 1 part resin with 1 part hardener according to the instructions for epoxy.

Align and Hold: Firmly and carefully hold the parts together in a parallel position. Tape or use clamps to ensure they do not move while waiting for the glue to set. When using UV-curable glue, use a UV light for 10-30 seconds to cure it.

Clean Up Excess: If you find that extra glue comes out, quickly wipe it off using a cloth or cotton swab before it sets. When the epoxy is only partially cured, it’s much simpler to clean it up.

Let It Cure: Let the glue set according to the instructions. Using super glue is fast, but you may need hours for epoxy to set. Take your time during bonding for a good relationship.

Work in small areas when using high-temperature resin, because the heat may cause the glue to let go.

When Should You Use Glue on Resin Prints?

Even for small repairs, you shouldn’t always rely on glue. Being aware of when to use it saves you from doing tasks that aren’t necessary. There are several scenarios that often occur.

Broken Parts: If your 3D model isn’t printed properly or breaks after you finish, a little bit of glue will make it whole again. Use super glue for the finest prints from the best resin 3D printer.

Multi-Part Models: Printing a large piece requires cutting it into multiple parts, as it won’t fit the build plate as one piece. Connect these parts with glue to finish your model.

Repairs After Painting: Repairs to your paint chip or scratch after painting, gluing the model can solve the problem easily.

Attaching Bases or Supports: You can apply bases or supports to your build plates if you are creating a display model.

If the pieces can be redrawn to join without glue, leave the glue in the box. Often, shifting a few settings in the slicer software can solve the problem.

Things to Keep in Mind

For great-looking resin prints, you should use the advice below.

• It’s good to work with super glue and epoxy in spaces with good ventilation. Freshen up the air in your room using a fan in your house.

• Protect your hands with gloves because resin or glue can be bothersome. Gloves protect your hands and keep them clean.

• It’s important to test first since specialty resins like high temp resin are not compatible with every glue. Work on a scrap of the material first to keep your model intact.

• Don’t put on too much glue; it might not stick well or make the bond weak. Many times, reducing what you include yields better results.

• Put sealed glues in a cool, dry area to make them last longer.

• Use only one type of glue for your project at a time. When you mix super glue and epoxy, the result can be weak bonds.

• Make sure the glue is compatible with water-washable resin or clear UV resin. Check the label of the glue or try it before using it to make your project.

• For detailed models, place small clamps or painter’s tape on parts until the glue completes drying.

• As soon as you’re done, clean your tools, as dried-on glue can harm them. As soon as you use them, wipe them off with acetone or alcohol.

Applying these guidelines will ensure your gluing goes well and your resin prints are clean and professional.

Conclusion

Everyone interested in 3D printing should learn how to glue their resin prints. Having the best glue can improve any step, whether you’re repairing something broken, putting together parts, or adhering to details. 

For most UV resin work, using super glue or epoxy, but for smooth bonds, UV-cure glue is ideal. 

Taking care to clean, add the correct amount of glue, and let your model dry will help you make attractive and sturdy displays. 

You can use a regular resin 3D printer and top-quality materials such as ABS-like resin or water-washable resin to build anything you can imagine. 

Try using different types of resin, use our tips, and watch your prints turn out great.

 

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