Glueing Balsa to Foam
#1
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From: Edmonton, AB,
I was wondering about the best method to apply the glue to foam. in the past I would smear it all over evenly on the foam prior to applying the Balsa. i have talked to several people and they say all that is required is to run glue beads. On the leading edge, trailing edge, along center of wing going span wise and then criss cross the remainder if the wing with glue. My main concern with this is that the glue may not run smoothly to all areas and I want to ensure I have good coverage.
I would like some other opinions regarding applying the glue. Thanks.
Craig.
I would like some other opinions regarding applying the glue. Thanks.
Craig.
#2
Use DAP Weldwood (green can) from Home Depot. It is water based and goes on with a thin nap roller (like the kind used for house trim painting). Just apply a coat onto the foam, and then one side of your balsa. Allow to dry for ~40min so they are dry to the touch. Then carefully line up the 2 pieces at one edge and apply the balsa with even pressure. This method is the best I've seen to date (you cannot remove the balsa without ripping off foam!
#3

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That method sounds good, and there is one more that I use. Take wood glue, thin it with water, paint it on both the wood and the foam, let it dry, then iron the wood on like monokote. It works well, you get great bond, and is very easy. Check it out. It works.
#4
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From: Edmonton, AB,
I was also wondering if Elmers Probond Wood glue is good for attaching the balsa to foam. I have used the white Elmers in the past but it requires pressing for at least 24 hours with weight. Does anyone know how long it would take for the Probond to set up?
Craig
Craig
#5
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Originally posted by Canuck1
I
Craig
I
Craig
It doesn't take 24 hours to take a bonding set.
It's more like three hours but needs 24 to harden up to take stress.
I usually mix 75% Elmer's glue and 25% water and saturate the area.
When it starts to get tacky in about 30 minutes then I lay on a bead of 100% Elmer's.
Just one tip.
Don't clamp 2 pieces together very tight.
You'll squeeze the glue out before it has time to soak into the wood.
I built kayaks, canoes and a flat bottom boat with Elmer's and coated the exposed surface with a sealer.
Hope this helps some.



