As a beginner in 3D printing, you’ve likely found that PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a go-to filament for its ease of use, affordability, and eco-friendly nature. However, assembling or repairing PLA prints requires the right glue to achieve strong, reliable bonds. Whether you’re piecing together a multi-part model or fixing a broken print, this guide covers the best glues for PLA and introduces adhesives for ABS and Nylon 3D printing.Why Choosing the Right Glue for PLA MattersPLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic with a smooth finish, but not all adhesives bond well with it. The ideal glue should create a strong hold without damaging the PLA surface, be easy to apply, and suit your project—whether it’s a quick fix or a permanent assembly. Below are five top glues for PLA, tailored for beginners.
Top 6 Glues for PLA 3D Printing
1.Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate)
Why It Works: Super glue dries fast and forms a strong bond on PLA surfaces, perfect for quick repairs.
Pros:
● Dries in seconds.
● Affordable and widely available.
● Great for small, precise applications.
Cons:
● Can become brittle over time.
● May leave white residue if overapplied.
Tips for Beginners: Use a gel formula like Gorilla Super Glue Gel, 15 Gram for better control. Apply sparingly to avoid mess.
2. Two-Part Epoxy
Why It Works: Epoxy’s resin and hardener mix creates a durable bond, ideal for larger PLA prints or structural parts.
Pros:
● Extremely strong and stress-resistant.
● Fills gaps on uneven surfaces.
Cons:
● Requires mixing, which can be messy.
● Longer curing time (5–30 minutes).
Tips for Beginners: Try Gorilla Epoxy, 0.85 oz with a 5-minute set time. Use a toothpick for precise application.
3.Hot Glue
Why It Works: Hot glue, applied via a glue gun, is beginner-friendly and adheres well to PLA for non-load-bearing projects.
Pros:
● Easy to use and fast-setting.
● Removable if needed.
Cons:
● Not ideal for high-stress or high-temperature parts.
● Bonds may weaken over time.
Tips for Beginners: Use Gorilla Hot Glue Sticks, 30 Count with a low-temperature glue gun to avoid melting PLA.
4.3D Gloop
Why It Works: 3D Gloop is a specialized adhesive for PLA, chemically bonding parts for a near-seamless hold.
Pros:
● Creates professional, strong bonds.
● Ideal for permanent assemblies.
Cons:
● More expensive and less accessible.
● Requires careful application due to solvent properties.
Tips for Beginners: Find it at retailers like eBay and apply in a well-ventilated area with the included brush.
5.CA Glue with Activator
Why It Works: This super glue variation uses an activator spray for instant curing, ensuring quick, strong PLA bonds.
Pros:
● Cures in seconds with activator.
● Reliable for most PLA projects.
Cons:
● Activator can be messy if overused.
● Slightly more complex than standard super glue.
Tips for Beginners: Try MITREAPEL CA Glue with Activator and practice on scrap PLA to master the spray technique.
6. Plastic Cement
Why It Works: Plastic Cement is special design for bond plastic. It can dissolve the plastic and make the the material of the two parts inter infiltration. Make the two plastic parts bond like the metal weld.
Pros:
● Suitable for detailed model assembly and seamless bonding
● The bonded areas can be sanded and colored just like “welding.”.
Cons:
● Not very strong than super glue for PLA bond
● Has a volatile odor and requires a well-ventilated environment for use.
Tips for Beginners: Need to buy the special model for the PLA bond
Choosing the Right Glue for Your PLA Project
There four main factors you need to take care about your project’s needs. Stressed 3D printed tools or gadgets need to choose the most strength glue. While, the models just for look show like garage kits, you should choose the glue that don't leave trail.
● Strength: Epoxy or 3D Gloop for structural parts.
● Speed: Super glue or CA glue with activator for quick fixes.
● Ease of Use: Hot glue for non-permanent bonds.
● Finish: Epoxy or 3D Gloop for a professional look.
Work in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves, and test glues on scrap PLA to ensure compatibility.
Glues for ABS and Nylon 3D Printing
As you advance beyond PLA, you may try ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or Nylon, which require different adhesives due to their unique properties.
Glues for ABS
ABS is tougher and more heat-resistant, often used for functional parts. It can be chemically welded with Onyx Professional 100% Pure Acetone, 16 oz for seamless bonds. Other options include:
● Super Glue: Loctite Super Glue Professional, 0.7 oz for quick repairs.
● Epoxy: Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix, 0.47 oz for strong, structural bonds.
● ABS Cement: Weld-On 16 Acrylic Adhesive, 5 oz for chemical bonding.
Tip: Apply acetone with a brush and clamp parts for a strong bond.
Glues for Nylon
Nylon is durable and flexible but tricky to glue due to its low surface energy. Effective adhesives include:
● Two-Part Epoxy: J-B Weld Original Epoxy, 0.85 oz for durable bonds.
● Polyurethane-Based Adhesive: Gorilla Original Glue, 4 oz for flexible bonds; clamp during curing.
● CA Glue with Primer: Use Loctite Super Glue Gel Control, 0.14 oz with Loctite SF 770 Primer, 1.75 oz to enhance adhesion.
Tip: Sand Nylon surfaces lightly before gluing to improve bonding.
Final Thoughts for Beginners
Mastering PLA bonding is a key step in 3D printing. Super glue and hot glue are great for quick projects, while epoxy and 3D Gloop offer strength for demanding applications. As you explore ABS or Nylon, use specialized adhesives like acetone or polyurethane glues. Experiment on test prints, follow safety precautions, and you’ll soon be assembling stunning 3D creations. Happy printing!
