Even though many of you think that metal is only joined by welding, let me inform you that it’s a completely wrong idea. Metal can also be joined with strong adhesive for ease of use and convenience.
However, not all glue and adhesives are suitable for joining metal. While some work incredibly well, others don’t create even the slightest bond.
But then again, I have a list of “what glue works on metal” so that you know which ones to buy and what to avoid.
Learn More: What Glue Sticks Plastic to Plastic?
Page Contents
What Adhesive Sticks To Metal?
There are quite a few types of adhesives that work perfectly on metal. Here is the list of adhesives that work to join metals successfully.
1. Epoxy Adhesive
Epoxy adhesives are the most common and effective type of adhesives around. Because they are a mixture of resin and hardener, they can join almost any surface together, including metal.
The combination of these parts makes epoxy stronger and makes sure that the bond between metal to metal or other surfaces is stronger than ever.
Also, as this glue has gap-filling capabilities, it can fill gaps in most types of metal for your convenience.
Advantages And Limitations of Epoxy Adhesive
Advantages
- Comes in a variety of forms for users’ convenience
- Forms a strong, permanent bond
- Offers excellent heat and chemical resistance
- Perfect for gap-filling between metal and other surfaces
Limitations
- It might take a while to cure epoxy adhesives completely.
Suitable Uses of Epoxy Adhesives
- Arts and crafts
- Household repairs
- Automotive industry
- Construction and building
- Marine
2. Polyurethane-based Adhesive
Polyurethane-based adhesives are also an excellent option for bonding metals with metals or any other surfaces. Being resistant to water and UV rays, this adhesive creates a super strong bond and, hence, can hold the metal to any surface easily.
Another advantage of this glue is that it is moisture-curing. It, therefore, can create an even stronger bond between surfaces than any other adhesives available.
Also, as it dries smoothly without getting brittle, a Polyurethane-based Adhesive creates a smooth and durable bond between metal and other surfaces.
How To Use Polyurethane-based Adhesive
Preparation: Start by preparing the surface (metal and the other materials) perfectly. Surface preparation ensures that the adhesive will stick strongly.
Application: Once you prepare the surfaces, apply the adhesive and smear it evenly for proper adhesion.
Set-Up: After the application, join the surfaces together and hold them in place for a few minutes to join them perfectly. It’s crucial because it gives the bonding the required shape.
Curing: Let the adhesive cure for the required time to join your metal surfaces with others successfully.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Polyurethane-based Adhesive
Strengths
- Incredibly flexible, you can try movements and expansion even after drying (not complete curing).
- Offers strong bonding strength for longevity.
- Water and chemical-resistant. For durable bonding.
Weaknesses
- Takes a lot of time to cure completely
- Not suitable for bonding plastic.
Learn More: What Adhesive Sticks to Concrete?
3. Cyanoacrylate-Based Adhesive
Cyanoacrylate adhesive, or super glue, however you call it, is an extremely amazing adhesive for joining metal surfaces.
Based on ethyl cyanoacrylate, this high-performance industrial adhesive works on most metals and other surfaces to create a super-strong bond.
If you want to join any metal surfaces with other materials, don’t hesitate to try out this amazing glue.
User Cases of Cyanoacrylate-Based Adhesive
- DIY projects
- Arts and crafts
- Household repairs
- Medical appliances
- Electronic repairs
- Automotive repairs
Safety Precautions of Cyanoacrylate-Based Adhesive
- Make sure not to smear the glue on your skin or your fingers
- Never let the glue be near your eyes
- Avoid contact with clothing to protect the clothes
- Use in a controlled manner for additional protection
Learn More: What Sticks to Felt Fabric?
What Glue to Use To Stick Metal To?
Different adhesives work differently to join metals with other materials. I have discussed the type of adhesives you can use to bond metal to other surfaces for your convenience.
Metal
If you want to join metal to metal, use either an epoxy resin, polyurethane, or cyanoacrylate-based adhesive.
Because all these three adhesives work incredibly well on metals, you can use any of them to create a strong bond between the metal surfaces.
Wood
When you need to stick metal and wood together, never forget to join them with polyurethane-based glue. Because it works on porous and smooth surfaces alike, this adhesive will create a lasting bond between these two surfaces.
Glass
Both cyanoacrylate-based adhesives and epoxy adhesives work well to join metal with a glass surface. They provide a strong bond to make sure the surfaces don’t come off any easily or anytime soon.
Rubber
When gluing metal to rubber, use a cyanoacrylate-based adhesive without any hesitation. This glue is super strong and works exceptionally well on smooth surfaces like rubber.
Also, as it is water-resistant, there is no chance that the bond will come off anytime soon.
Editor’s Opinion
Joining metal with an adhesive is easy and effective. And now that you know what glue works on metal, it will be much easier for you to pick the right one.
The right kind of glue would create a super strong bond between the surfaces and ensure durability; the bond won’t come off anytime soon.
