The Best Way to Join Plexiglass

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Things You'll Need

  • Acrylic cement

  • Four inch tall funnel

  • Combination square

  • Hypo-applicator

  • Rubber gloves

  • Safety glasses

  • 220-grit sandpaper

  • Combination square

  • Small brush

Plexiglass serves virtually the same purpose as glass, with more features and better qualities. It is 20 times stronger than glass and has the ability to bend and flex for easier installation. Plexiglass can be used for many different applications, including window replacement as well as arts and crafts. If you need to join at least two pieces of plexiglass together, there is one particularly good way to do it.

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Step 1

Twist open the can of acrylic cement and set the funnel into the top of the hypo-applicator. Pour the acrylic cement through the funnel and into the hypo-applicator until it is about 3/4 full.

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Step 2

Inspect the two pieces of plexiglass that will be joined together to make sure they are smooth, particularly along the edges where they will be cemented down.

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Step 3

Sand down the edges of the two pieces to smooth them out with 220-grit sandpaper if needed. Move the sandpaper up and down each piece on the sections to be joined until both are smooth.

Step 4

Set the pieces together in the way they need to be joined and line up a combination square along the center of the vertical piece to make sure a 90 degree angle will be made between the two pieces. Pick up the hypo-applicator and push on the plunger to squeeze some of the air out. This will prevent the cement from dripping on the plastic.

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Step 5

Place the needle of the hypo-applicator in the corner where the two pieces meet and gently squeeze out the cement along the joint. The cement will flow into the joint between the two pieces. Continue down the entire length. When done, hold the pieces together so they can adhere. See manufacturer's directions for drying times.

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Step 6

To join two flat pieces together, lay both pieces on an even surface and apply the acrylic cement to both edges with a small brush. Press the two edges together so they are barely touching for a few seconds and then adhere them together. Push and hold them in place so they can bond to one another.

Tip

If you drip acrylic cement on the plexiglass, do not try to wipe it up. Instead, let it evaporate.

The cement will be dry in a few minutes, but will not reach maximum strength for 24-48 hours.

Warning

Always wear gloves and safety glasses when working with acrylic cement to prevent burning of the hands and eyes.

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