Replies

1. 
   Curtis | Oct 14, 2004 12:20am | #1

   Hi

   is there anyway to use screws? they are really best suited for this Application.

   Ide also try "liquid nail". it may not be finewoodworking but its widely used in the construction field.

   good luck.   C.A.G.

   C.A.G.
1. 
   krummholz | Oct 14, 2004 12:29am | #2

   Thanks... I'm trying to avoid screws at all cost even though I recognize that they are the logical solution... I'll look into liquid nails

2. 
   Len | Oct 14, 2004 12:48am | #3

   Jim,

   I would use Devcon's Metalweld. It's a structual adhesive.

   http://www.devcon.com/devconfamilyproduct.cfm?familyid=184.0&catid=27

   Enjoy.

   Hi, I'm Len and I'm a Toolaholic...
1. 
   krummholz | Oct 14, 2004 01:00am | #4

   I've used in machinery repair... can you suggest a source?

1. 
   Len | Oct 14, 2004 03:20am | #9

   Jim,

   BTW I've also used there liquid metal repair and it works too.

   You can look for a local distributer on the Devcon web site. I find that industrial suppliers will sell to an individual if you pay cash.

   Or try

   http://rshughes.com/products/078143_14366.html

   RS Hughes sells all type of hard to find adhesives.

   http://www.mcmaster.com

   Mcmaster-carr may not have the same exact item. If you can't find it online. Call them. They are usually very helpful.

   Hope this helps.Hi, I'm Len and I'm a Toolaholic...

3. 
   Alan | Oct 14, 2004 01:18am | #5

   Jim,

   Epoxy will work.  It's used all the time for applications like yours.

   To get a good bond you do need to rough up the aluminum.  That gives the epoxy a mechanical attachment.

   Also make sure you have the metal scrupulously clean.  That usually means more than just wiping it with a damp rag.  Any oil or grease at all prevents the epoxy from sticking.

   Also, use mass quantities of epoxy.  Those tubes you get at the hardware store don't hold enough to bond even one 4" triangular plate, if they're the same size I usually see.  I would put on so much that it would squeeze out from under, and I wouldn't wipe off the squeeze out.  I would cut an old coffee can lid and use it to mold the epoxy to a beveled fillet around the plate.

   Alan

   
   

   ---

   Edited 10/13/2004 7:02 pm ET by Alan

1. 
   krummholz | Oct 14, 2004 01:45am | #7

   thanks... I may have been to casual about cleaning the aluminum.

4. 
   Routerman | Oct 14, 2004 01:26am | #6

   Can be done with a fastener.

   Routers

5. 
   GHR | Oct 14, 2004 02:08am | #8

   The bond strength of aluminum with epoxy is 0 psi. (yes, zero strength.)

   To bond to aluminum you need to get all of the oxide off and then use special primers.

6. 
   tcalisto | Oct 14, 2004 04:55pm | #10

   Jim,

   1. Use high quality epoxy such as West Systems, System Three or Maas.

   2. Clean the surfaces so they are free of dirt and oils

   3. Coat the aluminum with unthickened epoxy and wet sand the surface with 220 grit paper.

   4. Thicken the remaining epoxy with Cab-O-Sil or something similar and apply it to both surfaces.  Join the surfaces and lightly clamp.

   Good luck,

   Tom