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Hi there,

Recently I got a model 3D printed and I've been trying to build it, but nothing seems to work on it. I've tried the normal Revell plastic glue I use and many types of super glue, but it just immediately falls apart, regardless of how long I hold it there :/

Was wondering if anyone else had this problem and knew what I could try?

Thanks in advance x

I have found gel super glue works well. Any type of super glue should work, but the gel one helps bind into the layer lines. aPLA models in particular I e found it can take a while to get the glue to bind properly because of the gaps. Super glue does best when flat surfaces press firmly against each other. Very difficult to get that with FDM prints in particular without lots of sanding.

Polystyrene cement won’t work at all on prints because they don’t use polystyrene.

A few thoughts

1) As noted plastic glues won't work because they specifically work by melting plastics and then evaporating off the active ingredient so that the plastic then hardens.

2) Standard superglues should work without any major issues, however you want to ensure that the join surface is a smooth finish so it fits together flush; then score the join area with a blade in a cross hatch pattern. This increases the surface area of the joining surface and helps the superglue bond more firmly. This is the same method you'd use for metals and cast resin models.

3) Sometimes 3D print models don't fit well because the peg and socket system is a bit wonky. Some know how to make a good peg and socket and some don't - even before you get to expansion/contraction variation with different resins.
So sometimes what looks like a peg and socket might actually leave a big hollow in the middle where nothing is holding which creates a weaker bond. Gel superglues or some modelling putty in the join might well help improve those holds. Note ify ou use modelling putty (eg greenstuff) be sure to dry-fit the parts together firmly so that the greenstuff smears over the empty area and doesn't spill over the whole join, otherwise it will weaken the bond.


You might also want to look into pinning as sometimes 3D prints are built a bit wonky in terms of mechanics of construction. A symptom of 3D design on fast-mode (which a lot of the 3D print market is on) meaning that building, testing, redesigning and all are very short on time and many creators don't do it. So sometimes you have to add strength with pinning.

Superglue works for me.

In addition to the comments above about being cautious about the gaps, check that your superglue isn't too old, if it's been sitting on your shelf for a couple of years it might be time to replace it.

I use superglue gel all the time, with good results. Roughening up the joining surfaces a bit is a good idea, if they are not already.