What glue for 3D letters?

Gluing 3D Letters – A Comprehensive Guide for Professionals 

Gluing 3D letters is a key process in the advertising, decoration and unique DIY projects. With the right techniques and products, you can create effective and durable structures that will attract attention and emphasize the character of the space. In this extensive article, we will present methods of gluing 3D letters, discuss the selection of appropriate materials and tools, and answer the most frequently asked questions.

Materials used in 3D letters

3D letters can be made from various materials:

• Plastics : PVC, acrylic, extruded polystyrene,
• Metals : aluminum, stainless steel.
• Wood and wood-based materials : plywood, MDF.
• Composite materials .

 

 

 

Preparation for gluing

Preparation is key to success in gluing 3D letters. This includes:

• Surface cleaning : Remove dust, dirt and grease using appropriate cleaning agents.
• Sanding : Lightly matting the surface will improve adhesive adhesion.
• Degreasing : Use isopropyl alcohol or acetone to remove any remaining grease.

Gluing 3D letters - division by material

• Letters on the wall

For mounting 3D letters on the wall, it is recommended to use ATK 812 glue . This is a universal glue that provides a strong and durable connection with various types of substrates.

• Styrodur letters
  
  For the board : ATK 812 or acrylic tape are ideal solutions. ATK 812 glue can be applied linearly, and acrylic tape ensures quick and clean connection.
  With plexi/dibond front : Use ATK 021 gluing all over or ATK 812 gluing linearly. Before gluing plexiglass, it is worth matting the surface and wiping the styrodur for better adhesion.
  
  A suitable glue for block letters made of styrodur and styrofoam is also ATK PU16

• Plexiglass letters

ATK UV16 is ideal for gluing letters from plexiglass . This glue hardens under the influence of UV rays, which allows for precise positioning of the elements before final connection.

In the case of gluing the plexiglass face, giving a spatial effect, we glue it either on ATK 812 with a wipe with primer P200 (only plexiglass), or we glue ATK PU 021 all over.

 

• Alurapid tape letters with plastic insert

1. Initial bonding : ATK FIX cyanoacrylate glue with activator. Ensures quick gripping of elements.
2. Final bonding : Two-component Acralock CC 10-12 (transparent) or SA  10-15 WHT . Ensures a durable and strong bond.

• Letters with aluminum tape without insert

Use SA 10-15 WHT glue by applying it filletwise. This glue reflects light and does not yellow over time, which is important for illuminated and outdoor mounted letters .

• Aluminum letters and stainless steel

For 3D stainless steel letters and aluminum letters for walls and facades, Acralock 10-15 WHT is recommended . It provides a strong, weather-resistant connection.

 

• 3D wooden letters

ATK 812 glue applied all over is the best choice for 3D wooden letters . It provides a durable and aesthetic connection.

• Dibond letters
  Main part : CC 10-15 BLK glue applied filletwise.
  Folded edge : We pre-glue Plexiglass to dibond with ATK FIX with activator, and then use CC 10-12 or the recommended CC 10-15 WHT .

 

• PVC and PVC letters

If the edge tape is PVC, ATK FIX should be sufficient. To be on the safe side, you can use CC 10-12 or CC 10-15 WHT . For Alurapid tape with a PVC insert, the procedure is identical.

 

 

Advantages and features of the above-mentioned adhesives:

• Products commonly used by advertising companies (all)
• High bond strength: Provides strong and durable bond to various types of substrates. (all)
• Provides a durable, weather-resistant connection (all)
• Once cured it is completely transparent, without affecting the appearance of the letters. (ATK UV, CC 10-12)
• Ensures immediate grip of elements, which speeds up the assembly process. ( ATK FIX)
• The snow-white color of the glue reflects light, which illuminates the entire face of the letter and masks the glue joint. (Acralock 10-15 WHT)
• Suitable for gluing on vertical surfaces (ATK 812, ATK PU16, Acralock 10-15 WHT)

Practical advice

• To avoid having to support the whole thing after sticking it to the wall, stick 1-2 mm double-sided tape, which will grab it immediately before the glue completely sets.
• Avoid excess glue: This can lead to unsightly leaks.
• Test on samples: Before actual gluing, test the adhesive on a small sample of the material.
• Store adhesives according to instructions: To maintain their properties for longer.
• It is best to cut the plexiglass 3–5 cm larger than what we cut in the dibond, so as to reduce the amount of PMMA used. Additionally, we reduce the amount of glue, because we do not have to glue, for example, 2 m² of plexiglass all over.
• In addition to gluing, 3D letters can be mounted using mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts or rivets. This is particularly useful for heavy metal letters or where disassembly is required.

To effectively glue 3D letters you will need:

• Adhesive applicators: Guns for single- and two-component adhesives.
• Abrasive materials: Sandpaper, grinders for matting surfaces.
• Cleaning agents: Isopropyl alcohol, acetone for degreasing.
• Measuring instruments: Tapes, levels, angles for precise assembly.
• Personal protective equipment: Gloves, safety glasses, dust masks.

Environmental conditions

The ambient temperature and humidity can affect the drying time and properties of the adhesive. It is recommended to glue at temperatures between 15°C and 25°C and with low humidity. Avoid gluing outdoors in the rain or in very humid conditions, as this can weaken the adhesive bond.

Solving common problems

• Poor adhesive adhesion : Make sure surfaces are clean and free from grease. Use the appropriate adhesive for the material.
• Uneven drying : The adhesive may dry unevenly depending on the thickness of the application. Try to apply the adhesive evenly.
• Air bubbles : Avoid these by pressing the pieces down carefully and using proper application techniques.

Frequently asked questions about 3D letter assembly

1. Is ATK 812 suitable for all types of 3D letters?
   ATK 812 is a very universal glue, especially recommended for styrodur, wood and plexiglass. However, in the case of more demanding materials, such as metal or aluminum, dedicated glues should be used, e.g. Acralock CC 10-15 WHT.

2. How to prepare the surface for gluing 3D letters?
   Before gluing, the surface should be thoroughly cleaned and degreased. For better adhesion, in the case of materials such as plexiglass or styrodur, it is recommended to slightly matt their surface.

3. When to choose acrylic tapes instead of adhesives?
   Acrylic tapes are suitable for lightweight letters mounted on smooth, even interior surfaces. They are convenient and quick to use, but they will not always be suitable for heavy elements exposed to changing weather conditions.

4. Does the installation of 3D letters on the facade require additional reinforcement?
   Yes, in the case of aluminum or steel letters that will be exposed to strong wind or rain, it is recommended to combine glue with mechanical fastening to ensure maximum durability.

5. Can I use regular glue to glue 3D letters?

   Conventional adhesives may not provide adequate durability and weather resistance. It is recommended to use specialist adhesives recommended in this article that are adapted to specific materials and applications.

6. How to avoid yellowing of the glue in illuminated letters?
   Use glues that are UV resistant and do not yellow over time, such as CC 10-15 WHT. In places exposed to UV radiation, choose glues with high UV resistance, regardless of their transparency. If the letters will be installed indoors and not exposed to strong sunlight, transparent UV-resistant glues can be used.

 

Safety while gluing

Working with adhesives requires taking appropriate precautions. Make sure you work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling adhesive fumes. Always wear protective gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes from accidental contact with the adhesive. Store adhesives in their original containers, away from heat and flames, as many are flammable. In case of contact with eyes or skin, immediately rinse the area with plenty of water and consult a doctor.

Summary

Gluing 3D letters is a process that requires precision, the right tools and materials. By choosing the right glue and gluing technique, you can create durable and aesthetic structures that will serve for years. Remember about safety during work and maintenance of the finished letters to maintain their highest quality.

Additional materials - video