When it comes to bonding materials in 3D printing, choosing the right adhesive is crucial for achieving strong and durable results. In this article, we compare two popular adhesives, 3D Gloop and PVC glue, to determine which one works best for 3D printed parts.
The Cost of Adhesives
One of the first considerations when selecting an adhesive is cost. Eight ounces of PVC glue typically costs around $8 to $10, while 2.5 ounces of 3D Gloop is priced at approximately $25. This significant price difference raises the question: do they offer the same level of performance, and are their active ingredients similar?
Understanding the Active Ingredients
PVC Glue
The active ingredient in PVC glue is usually tetrahydrofuran (THF). THF is a solvent that softens the PVC material, allowing the surfaces to bond as the glue dries and the THF evaporates.
3D Gloop
3D Gloop contains a blend of solvents, including tetrahydrofuran (THF) and acetone. These solvents help to chemically bond 3D printed parts by slightly dissolving the surface, creating a strong bond as it dries.
Both adhesives contain THF, a versatile solvent known for its effectiveness in bonding and fusing various materials. This common ingredient is key to the performance of both products.
The Role of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Most adhesive products come with Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which list the ingredients and safety information. While some ingredients may be listed as trade secrets, these sheets provide valuable insights into the formulations of the adhesives. For example, the Oatey PVC cement and 3D Gloop PLA formula have their ingredients and percentages by weight listed in their respective SDS.
Testing 3D Gloop and PVC Glue
To compare the performance of 3D Gloop and PVC glue, we conducted several tests on 3D printed parts made of PLA (polylactic acid). Here's a step-by-step breakdown of our testing process:
- Preparation: We used previously tested 3D printed parts, bonded them with 3D Gloop, and observed that the bond held up even when the PLA broke.
- Bonding: We bonded additional 3D printed parts with both 3D Gloop and PVC glue, clamping them and leaving them overnight.
- Testing: After 24 hours, we tested the bonds to see if they would snap apart. We evaluated the performance of PVC cement in three ways: just the cement itself, the cement with an activator on one side, and the cement with an activator on both sides.
Results
- 3D Gloop: The bond held firm, with the PLA breaking rather than the adhesive bond.
- PVC Glue: The adhesive bond broke in all cases, even though it melted the PLA slightly. This indicates that PVC glue is not as effective for PLA as it is for ABS or PVC materials.
Additional Tests
We also tested 3D Gloop on PVC parts to see if it could bond PVC as effectively as PLA. The results showed that 3D Gloop could hold PVC, but it would be an expensive option compared to traditional PVC cement.
In conclusion, 3D Gloop outperformed PVC glue when bonding 3D printed PLA parts. While PVC glue can be used for ABS, it is not suitable for PLA. 3D Gloop, designed specifically for 3D printed materials, offers stronger and more durable bonds. However, it is essential to consider the cost per ounce and the specific needs of your project.
For 3D printing, DIY, and maker projects, 3D Gloop, JB Weld, and super glue are recommended adhesives. Each offers excellent performance, with 3D Gloop being particularly effective for 3D printed parts.
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