Joining ABS Armour using Acetone

[JJSOUTER]

While building my first set of armour (AP) I came across some serious issues with glueing the pieces together. Being in Australia, not all of the best brands suggested are available locally. The alternative glues that I tried to use were Welbond and Trojan. After much frustration I thought back to a class I'd taken in university this semester where we were told that acetone could be used to weld two bits of ABS together. I hadn't seen this used on any other forums but the results i achieved were very pleasing and i thought worth sharing. Acetone is much cheaper than any decent glue and will combine to pieces of ABS into a solid piece.

 

The acetone was applied similarly to any glue with the exception of brushing the acetone on the edge of the butt join to form a cleaner finish. Would appreciate any comments on the technique are much appreciated.

 

Results:

 

Thigh Piece:

 

 

Bicep Piece:

 

Forearm Piece:

Edited November 18, 2015 by JJSOUTER

[Coastertk]

STOP!!! Acetone will melt your abs. You are very brave for attempting this but I would not recommend this practice to anyone.

Edited November 18, 2015 by Coastertk

[JJSOUTER]

STOP!!! Acetone will melt your abs. You are very brave for attempting this but I would not recommend this practice to anyone.

 

 

Melting the ABS is the whole point of using acetone. I did this with a fine brush and tape lining where I wanted to apply. I don't think its too risky along as you apply sparingly. It's the same as using Plastiweld except a lot cheaper. I have no previous experience building armour and as you can see, my results were quite decent. also dries quickly.

[TakoTuesday[501st]]

What I think he's trying to say is that using acetone as the primary adhesive for ABS may not be the best choice for most people as it is likely their first (and only) TK armor.  Acetone aggressively dissolves ABS and any spills, drips or missteps will likely result in permanently tarnishing surface areas which cannot be easily repaired.

[justjoseph63[Staff]]

Great information from Ryan there, Joshua.  I am almost certain that E-6000 glue is available down-under, and I would suggest getting in touch with one of the Garrisons there, like http://501st.com.au/ to find out what their source was.  Yes, you may have to wait a bit, but the advantage of using the E-6000 is that it is somewhat forgiving, and can be removed if you make a mistake.  

[Locitus[Admin]]

Whatever works for you dude. It looks like you got a good bond. As you realize, you'll only get one try so be careful and make sure you get it right from the start.

[Scotty33[TK]]

E6000 should be available at Spotlight in Australia, its not cheap over here though.