Content

• Steps
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

Whether you have a task to connect 2 pieces of plastic or need to repair a broken plastic item, soldering the plastic can often be the easiest and cheapest option. You will need an electric welding gun and an appropriate welding electrode for welding plastic. Getting used to the heat of the welding torch is usually the most difficult part of the welding process. Use these tips to learn how to weld plastic.

Steps

1. 1 Preheat the welding gun for at least 20 minutes.
2. 2 Prepare the plastic for welding. Remove the plastic part from the object, if possible. Clean the plastic with water and mild soap or detergent and water. Dry the plastic thoroughly with a dry cloth.
3. 3 Strip the plastic. Localize the area or areas of plastic to be welded. Sand the edges with 80 grit sandpaper until they are smooth to the touch.
4. 4 Protect your surroundings. Close the parts to be joined and secure the adjacent areas with foil tape. Make sure you connect the pieces tightly and exactly in the position you want them to be.
5. 5 Insert the welding electrode into the heated soldering iron. This electrode acts as a guide for hot air to the soldering iron.
6. 6 Move the tip of the welding gun slowly over the edge or joint where the plastic is to be welded. You will see the plastic melt to create a seal. To determine if the temperature is sufficient, move the welding gun closer to the plastic components and then further away; work stably and evenly.
7. 7 Let the plastic parts cool for at least 5 minutes.
8. 8 Sand the weld seam with 150 grit sandpaper until smooth.
9. 9 Open the entire plastic product with a water-based solvent.

Tips

• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Clamps can be useful for holding small plastic pieces in place while welding.
• Wear protective goggles and gloves for safety while welding.

Warnings

• The temperature of a welding gun typically averages 525 degrees F (274 ° C) and can cause a fire if placed next to other objects or turned off improperly. When turning off the gun, be sure to remove it from the straight work area and place it on a stand to allow it to cool.
• Do not touch the barrel or the tip of the gun while handling it.

What do you need

• Welding gun
• Welding electrode
• 80th sandpaper