Attn: Acrylic Experts!

saltynewbie

saltynewbie

Member
hey everybody-
what type of adhesive is OK to use to bond acrylic together in my reef tank? i am building an overflow box for my 140 gallon drilled tank and i cannot find the "acrylic weld" stuff that i always hear about. there are several types of epoxy that i have found that are rated at about 1500-1900 psi. i just dont want to buy something that will leach harmful chemicals into my tank. let me know! thanks!
 
dreeves

dreeves

Active Member
The epoxy will not work...it is still an adhesive...acrylic requires an agent which chemically welds the two pieces together...where they are in effect, one piece instead of two. You can order the Weld-ons online...just do a search for acrylic.
 
T

thomas712

Guest
True acrylic cement is methylene chloride and is a carcinogen. It is best applied by syringe with a long needle to facilitate corner adhering, etc. No tape, clamps or other "hold-together" supports are needed. Only an architect's triangle and "T" sqaure are reqired to align the sides to the bottom and/or any inserts you plan on including.
By wicking the cement, capilliary action allows it to travel the length of the joint insuring a water-tight seal.
The one big area ofter overlooked is the cut edge preparation before bonding. The saw action leaves a surface pitted and uneven. Due to the viscosity of the cement, (thin), these rough edges need attention before actual assembly. Then a propane blow torch set way, way low to sort-of flame polish the final mating surfaces.
There is a thicker viscosity cement out there that fills some imperfections when cementing, but not nessessary for this application, only on high pressure sensitive work.
Thomas
 
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