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Top 8 Best Glue for Plastic to Metal

One of the most common repair jobs is bonding plastic to metal. Starting from our homes to industries and workplaces, plastic to metal bonding for repair is essential. But depending on the instance at hand, the quality and bonding strength of the glue required can fluctuate greatly. In today’s article, we will give a rundown of the best glue for plastic to metal that we have tested. As usual, we will also provide you with a buying guide and FAQs section for general advice and tips. Let’s get started!

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Best Glue for Plastic to Metal

Image
Product
Best Overall
Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy
  • Clear drying
  • Gives you ample to work with it
  • Ideal for repairs, crafts, and more
Gorilla All Purpose Epoxy Putty Stick
  • Works with virtually every material
  • Heat resistant
  • Waterproof
Loctite Epoxy Five Minute Instant Mix
  • Non-shrinking
  • Self-mixing syringe
  • Precise applicator tip
Permatex 84209 PermaPoxy 4 Minute Multi-Metal Epoxy
  • Ease of use allows for less work and repair downtime
  • Easy to apply with no clamping needed
  • Very useful for projects involving multiple metals
Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue 20-Gram Bottle
  • The tried and true classic squeeze bottle ensures ease of use
  • The pin cap doesn’t clog, which removes the hassle of unclogging the mouth before every use
  • An excellent choice for quick repairs as it dries fast
E-6000 Adhesive
  • Resistant to rough elements and paintable
  • The high-temperature resistance ensures excellent performance for years down the line
  • Bonds substrates very effectively
Aleene's Jewelry & Metal Instant Adhesive
  • The bonding strength of the adhesive is permanent
  • Allows for quick and clean jewelry repairs
  • The applicator trip is small, allowing you to squeeze the exact amount
Technicqll Very Strong Epoxy Adhesive Glue
  • Super-strong bonding strength
  • Works well with different types of materials
  • Quick-drying and the fast-curing

Our Overall #1 Rated Pick

Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy

Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy

When comes to the best glue for bonding plastic to metal, various epoxies are best to use. Epoxies generally consist of two components, a resin and a hardener. These are kept in separate bottles or compartments in a syringe.
When the two components mix together, they create a thermosetting chemical reaction that causes the mixture to harden. These tend to have great chemical and solvent resistance, water resistance, and heat resistance too.
Our number one top pick for the best plastic to metal glue is Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy. There are a few key features to be aware of.

  • Permanent bond
  • High tensile strength
  • Ideal for repairs and gap filling

Gorilla 2 part epoxy glue is ideal for bonding metal to plastic, as it can be used for a wide variety of materials. It works for plastic, metal, wood, ceramic, tile, fiberglass, and more.
This glue sets in about 5 minutes, but takes about 24 hours to cure. This allows for plenty of time to work with it and to position pieces before the glue hardens.
The resin and hardener are each contained in a separate compartment of a syringe, thus keeping them apart prior to use.
The syringe features 1 push stopper, thus allowing the components to be evenly dispensed at once. However, do remember that some mixing is required before the glue can be applied to any surface.
This glue dries clear for easy finishing. It also forms a very durable bond that is ideal for repairs, for crafts, and more. Moreover, once cured, this glue is resistant to solvents, heat, and water.

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Types of Glue for Plastic to Metal

Glue for Plastic to Metal

Are you short on time or just want a quick answer?

Check out our list below for a summary of our results.

  1. Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy
  2. Gorilla All Purpose Epoxy Putty Stick
  3. Loctite Epoxy Five Minute Instant Mix
  4. Permatex 84209 PermaPoxy 4 Minute Multi-Metal Epoxy
  5. Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue 20-Gram Bottle
  6. E-6000 Adhesive
  7. Aleene's Jewelry & Metal Instant Adhesive
  8. Technicqll Very Strong Epoxy Adhesive Glue

There are a few different types of glue that can be used to bond plastic and metal together. Some of these include epoxy, superglue, PVC adhesive. If you want an overview of the advantages and disadvantages for each type, see below.

Epoxy

The strongest type of glue for metal to plastic is epoxy. Epoxy is a two-part liquid adhesive that cures when mixed.

This material can be used in a variety of applications where it is desirable to have the adhesive on only one side. It cures quickly and has high tensile strength, good environmental resistance (in most cases), corrosion resistance, adheres well to both metals and plastics, resists aging from UV light exposure as well as moisture exposure for some time. However, this type of glue will not bond metal that has been galvanized or coated with zinc oxide paint because these coatings prevent rusting by reacting specifically with iron or steel metal surfaces.

Materials That Can Be Bonded with Epoxy:

  • Plastic to aluminum
  • Plastic to brass
  • Plastic to bronze

Superglue

Glue metal to plastic

The second type of strong glue for metal to plastic is superglue or cyanoacrylate. This form of glue is a very quick and inexpensive way to bond plastics and metals together. This type of adhesive also has good tensile strength, corrosion resistance, adheres well to both metal and plastic surfaces as well as resists aging from UV light exposure for some time. The main downside with this type of glue is that it can be brittle when used on thin pieces or too much pressure is applied in the bonding process.

PVC Adhesive

The third option for strong glue for metal to plastic is PVC adhesive (polyvinyl chloride). This type of glue will stick readily at room temperature but requires heat activation due to its low viscosity. It offers high tear strength, excellent adhesion properties, chemical resistant properties because it contains no organic solvents, and resists moisture. The downside to this type of glue is that it has a relatively high shrinkage rate which can cause stress on the joint as well as its susceptibility to UV light (low resistance).

Best Glue for Plastic to Metal

Below is a rundown of the 5 best glue for plastic to metal bonding available online. The picks are based on our own tests and other user reviews online.

The top best product [hide]

Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy


Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy
Gorilla 2 part epoxy is our number one pick for the best glue for bonding metal to plastic. One reason for this is due to the ideal syringe packaging. The resin and hardener are kept separate until they are needed, and thanks to the syringe design, both can be easily dispensed in equal amounts. You will need to mix the two before use, but overall, it’s quite easy to do.

This glue takes rouhgly 5 minutes to set and begin to harden. This means that you have a bit of time to work with it before it hardens, thus reducing pressure. It will take up to 24 hours to cure, but once it is cured, it forms an extremely strong bond.

This glue is also ideal because it dries clear, making it perfect for crafts and repairs where you don’t want to be able to see the glue when the project it is done. It can also be sanded down once cured. To ensure a long-lasting and stable bond, this glue is highly resistant to water, chemicals, and solvents.
Technical Specifications:
  • Easy-to-use syringe
  • Clear drying
  • 5 minute set
Pros
Clear drying
Gives you ample to work with it
Ideal for repairs, crafts, and more
High chemical and solvent resistance
Easy to dispense
Cons
Requires mixing
Not 100% waterproof
Cannot resist extreme temperatures

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Gorilla All Purpose Epoxy Putty Stick


Gorilla All Purpose Epoxy Putty Stick
If you are looking for something that can be used for all sorts of materials including metal, plastic, concrete, ceramic, PVC, fiberglass, stone, glass, wood, and more, then this all purpose epoxy putty is a great option to consider.

It is very easy to work with. Simply cut off the required amount for the application at hand, knead it for about a minute to heat it up a bit, apply it to the surfaces being bonded, and allow it to cure. It takes about 10 minutes to set, so you do have ample time for position, but it may take quite a while for it to cure totally.

That said, this putty is totally waterproof, has great heat resistance, it has extreme tensile strength, it can resist a lot of pressure and movement, and is just really strong overall. It may even be used for auto repairs and plumbing applications.
Technical Specifications:
  • Mess free
  • 10 minute set
  • Ideal for many surface types
Pros
Works with virtually every material
Heat resistant
Waterproof
Great bond strength
Easy to work with
Cons
Dries grey
Toxic

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Loctite Epoxy Five Minute Instant Mix


Loctite Epoxy Five Minute Instant Mix
This is a very convenient two part epoxy, and this is thanks to the fact that the syringe applicator allows for self-mixing, so you don’t have to dispense separate components and then mix them manually. In fact, the applicator nozzles allow for very precise application.

This glue sets in about 5 minutes, so it should be quite easy to work with. Once cured, it has a very high tensile strength and can resist great impacts.

You can use this Loctite product for bonding metal, plastic, glass, wood, ceramic, concrete, porcelain, and more. It is totally waterproof, and once cured, it can also be sanded and painted, plus it does not shrink as it dries. This glue is also resistant to most common solvents.
Technical Specifications:
  • Self-mixing
  • Waterproof
  • High tensile strength
Pros
Non-shrinking
Self-mixing syringe
Precise applicator tip
Water resistant
Very high bond strength
Ideal for many materials
Cons
Not overly heat resistant
Very strong odor

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Permatex 84209 PermaPoxy 4 Minute Multi-Metal Epoxy


Permatex 84209 PermaPoxy 4 Minute Multi-Metal Epoxy
The Permatex 84209 is an extremely strong plastic to metal bonding adhesive that is professional grade. It has a quick-drying time of only four minutes, which is really awesome considering the bonding strength 4500 PSI. The Permatex 84209 epoxy is really good for repairing aluminum, copper, chrome, iron, brass, stainless steel and more. The adhesive comes in two mixture tubes that need to be mixed in the proper ratio to create the adhesive.
Pros
Ease of use allows for less work and repair downtime
Easy to apply with no clamping needed
Very useful for projects involving multiple metals
Excellent for filling in those deep, hard-to reach racks
Cons
The adhesive has a very pungent smell that might not suit everyone

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Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue 20-Gram Bottle


Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue 20-Gram Bottle
The Loctite Liquid superglue is one of the best plastic to metal glue out there if you’re not looking for industrial-grade bonding. Packaged in a 20gm bottle, the glue is fairly useful for a wide range of scenarios. The bonding strength of this variant of Loctite is stronger than its regular counterpart, so caution is advised when using to avoid spills on the skin.
Pros
The tried and true classic squeeze bottle ensures ease of use
The pin cap doesn’t clog, which removes the hassle of unclogging the mouth before every use
An excellent choice for quick repairs as it dries fast
Cons
Since it dries very quickly compared to regular superglue, errors need to be fixed quickly

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E-6000 Adhesive


E-6000 Adhesive
The E-6000 is an extra-strong, industrial grade adhesive that is popular among handymen and craftsmen. The extra-bonding strength is no joke as repairs last for years. The strength of the bonding is strong enough to withstand constant shocks and vibrations, making it an excellent choice for vehicle repairs.
Pros
Resistant to rough elements and paintable
The high-temperature resistance ensures excellent performance for years down the line
Bonds substrates very effectively
Safe to use in dryers and washers
Cons
Lengthy curing time

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Aleene's Jewelry & Metal Instant Adhesive


Aleene's Jewelry & Metal Instant Adhesive
Aleene’s has always been a dependable brand for intricate repairs, and Aleen’s Jewelry and Metal Instant adhesive is no different. Perfect for minute repairs, this glue is much preferred by jewelers when repairing or finishing a piece.
Pros
The bonding strength of the adhesive is permanent
Allows for quick and clean jewelry repairs
The applicator trip is small, allowing you to squeeze the exact amount
Cons
Not effective for heavy-duty bonding

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Technicqll Very Strong Epoxy Adhesive Glue


Technicqll Very Strong Epoxy Adhesive Glue
Technicqll Epoxy adhesive glue is another industry-grade glue for plastic to metal that is known for its quick curing time. The adhesive comes in mixtures contained in two different tubes that need to be mixed to create the adhesive.
Pros
Super-strong bonding strength
Works well with different types of materials
Quick-drying and the fast-curing
Oil- and acid-resistant
Cons
The surfaces of the repairs need extra pre-preparation

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How to Glue Metal to Plastic – Complete Guide

Step 1: Make sure it is not rusty or has any type of corrosion. Use a putty knife or similar object to scrape off any remaining debris, make sure it’s completely smooth

Step 2: Apply liquid degreaser before applying the adhesive so that it is invisible and there are no irregularities in texture for bonding surfaces together. For best results use Use multipurpose solvent, the great thing about it is that it evaporates. Degreaser need for cleaning the surface to be glued, so that there’s no residual oils or liquids.

Step 3: Now we need two-component epoxy glue. Two-component epoxy glue contains two tubes of liquid gel which you need to mix together for it to work properly. This is in contrast with standard adhesives like superglue and hot glue which are solid prepolymers made from synthetic polymers and organic solvents.

  • Stay the resin portion until it’s smooth and free of bubbles.
  • Next, add the hardener has been left in the resin container so everything fits.
  • Now the two parts are combined give them a good stir.


Step 4: Now you’re ready to apply the glue for metal and plastic. Is highly viscous and it can be easily applied with the included spatula to horizontal or vertical surfaces.

Safety Precautions

To keep you safe and secure, let’s quickly go over a few important safety tips for working with glue that can bond metal to plastic.

  • Always work in a well ventilated area to ensure that you do not inhale any fumes.
  • If using industrial adhesives, you may need to wear a respirator to prevent lung damage.
  • Always wear gloves to prevent super glue and epoxies from bonding with the skin.
  • Remember that a small amount will go a long way.
  • You may also consider wearing protective eyewear to keep glue out of your eyes.
  • Keep all such products away from pets and children.

Glue For Plastic to Metal – Buying Guide

Glue plastic metal

Keep multi-material bonding in mind when making your purchase

One of the first things that you should keep in mind when buying glue for bonding hard materials is how widely applicable it is. Since the bonding strength, you are looking for needs to be strong enough to bond two hard materials, the glue should work effectively with multiple materials like wood, glass, metal, etc. The bond needs to be strong enough to handle drilling, filing and other extra stress – fresh off the bonding process. But sometimes, depending on your requirements, particular selections need to be made based on relative surface energy, elastic modulus and thermal expansion of the bonding materials. Plastics require different bonding agents based on HSE (High Surface Energy) or LSE (Low Surface Energy).

Common types of glues used for plastic to metal bonding

The most common types of glues available on the market for public purchase are tube-based glue and two-part epoxy putties. While both types are effective, the mixture based epoxy putties generally have more bonding strength than the tube based-glue, unless the former is industrial grade. Tube-based glue are best for small and intricate repairs, as the nozzle is generally small enough to reach small cracks and gaps. These types of glue are most popular for crafts and small-item repair, like miniature models. These types of glue are comparatively easy to get off your skin. The putty based adhesives for plastic to metal are more commonly used for large repairs and handymen work. The application process needs more care, but the bond is capable of withstanding rough weather and extreme temperatures. Compared to tube-based glue, putty-based glue are more sticky and difficult to get off skin or clothes. Base your purchase on what your actual needs are.

How to pre-prepare surface for bonding with professional-grade glue

Gluing plastic to metal

With some putty based adhesives, preparing the mixture alone is not enough. You also need to prepare the surfaces that are going to be bonded so that the process is done properly and effectively. This basically boils down to cleaning the surface properly and sometimes varnishing and dusting as well. Cleaning the surface with sandpaper or steel wool is very effective and is done by professional handymen. But never the less, it is advisable to follow the instruction manual as closely as possible.

FAQ

What are metal glues and how many types are there?

Metal glue are special glue with extra strength made for bonding hard materials. In the glue industry, adhesives are categorized under 3 major categories: epoxy adhesives, polyurethanes, and superglues. Out of these three, superglue are the most commonly used by the general public.

What is a control applicator?

A control applicator might sound sophisticated but is actually a very simple gadget. A control applicator is used with tube-based glue and allows for extra precision and control when squeezing the tube.

How to avoid skin spills?

When using superglue for repairs, no matter what size, it is highly advisable to use gloves. You don’t need to buy heavy-duty gloves for easy applications like crafts and jewelry repair. Simple, disposable, plastic gloves are more than enough to avoid skin spills.

Conclusion

So there you go – our picks for the best glue for plastic to metal available online. If you opened this article hoping for some good tips and recommendations, we hope the content and reviews were helpful to you. Please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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