How to Dissolve Testors Model Glue
Testors makes two basic types of models. One of these is plastic, and the other is balsa wood and paper. Each model type has its own glue or cement. In fact, there are several types based on how fast the glue dries. There is an art in the application of cements. It is best to know the strengths and limitations of the cements and the solvents that may help in removing them. Wood glues should never be used on plastic, and plastic glues should not be used on wood. Wood cement bonds pieces together, and plastic cements weld plastic together. Use all glues sparingly, but especially plastic glue, because it forms a chemical bond, and too much will melt the part and not stick at all. Solvents that remove plastic glue will also melt these plastic parts.
Things You'll Need
- Testors Wood Cement (Fast Dry) Testors Wood Cement (Extra Fast Dry) Testors Plastic Cements (assorted drying speeds) Needle-nose plastic cement applicator (No. 8872 and/or No. 3507) Acetone or nail polish remover Methyl-ethyl ketone Plastic and wood models Small brushes Assorted sandpaper Utility knife Rotary tool kit with high-speed bits and pieces
Instructions
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Testors Wood Cement—Fast Dry will take a few hours for a firm glue set. It can be removed physically by scraping and wiping the glue off the wood parts. If the bond is set, it can be cut with a knife or rotary tool. Your wood part may be placed at risk if you do so. Testors does not have a solvent for its wood glues, as the company's glues are made for a permanent joint. Neither wood nor plastic glues dissolve in anything easily once fully dry. Physical glue removal can work, but the part may break or suffer defects. It is easier to cut a new wooden part if necessary.
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Testors Wood Cement—Extra Fast Dry will tack in a few minutes and set in about 15 minutes. You can hold the part in position, and it will dry where you want it to dry. Use both acetone and methyl-ethyl ketone to clean brushes or dissolve wood glues from surfaces. This works best when the glue is fresh and unset, and the solvent can penetrate before permanent bonding has taken place. A scrub brush and soap and water will help abrade glue from skin.
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Testors Plastic Cement can be applied with an applicator or brush. It will dissolve the plastic part's surface to weld with another wet plastic surface to form a chemical bond. Once the bond is formed, it is permanently joined to the part. You can use nail polish remover or acetone to clean it up by carefully blotting. Remember, the nail polish remover will act just like the plastic glue and melt the part. Use it sparingly. Use it with a surface stroke to avoid ruining the part of the finish. If a part finish dries rough, try lightly sanding and painting the affected area with a plastic paint, preferably a spray for a better finish.
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Tips & Warnings
Wood glues will stick to skin. Allow a few minutes to dry and scrape off to avoid injury to skin. Use a very small amount of extra-fast wood glue to set parts. Follow with a coat of fast-dry wood glue for strength. Plastic glue runs very easily. Be prepared to blot quickly. Use a very small amount.
Avoid breathing glue fumes. Avoid contact on skin with glues and solvents. Wear gloves and eyeglasses for protection.
References
- Photo Credit Model Airplane image by Sydney van Rensburg from Fotolia.com
