What Is PVC Adhesive?
PVC adhesives, also known as vinyl chloride resin adhesives, are created by modifying vinyl chloride resin or vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer. These adhesives usually appear as a gel-like liquid and have a solvent odor.
Typically incorporating organic solvents, PVC adhesives are flammable and toxic, necessitating careful storage and handling.
Uses of PVC Adhesives
PVC adhesives are primarily used for bonding polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials. They employ a bonding method called the dope cement method, which swells the resin for effective adhesion. PVC adhesives are particularly useful for bonding soft PVC.
Common applications include bonding PVC pipes and vinyl sheets. PVC adhesives slightly melt the components during bonding, providing strong integration and water resistance. This makes them ideal for repairing PVC liquid piping.
Features of PVC Adhesives
Advantages
PVC adhesives are valued for their quick-drying and water-resistant properties. Available in various viscosities, they can be selected based on specific applications. Additionally, they serve as lubricants for inserting pipes into fittings. The adhesives often come in colors that match different types of PVC pipes, aiding in easy and accurate application.
Disadvantages
The use of organic solvents in PVC adhesives can lead to cracking or crazing, depending on the solvent resistance of the material being bonded. Plasticizers in the adhesive may harden the vinyl or cause peeling due to migration into the adhesive. The properties of these plasticizers can vary by manufacturer and grade.
Types of PVC Adhesives
PVC adhesives are available in types suited for different pipe diameters and applications, varying in viscosity and composition.
1. Fast-Drying Type
This type dries quickly, reducing the likelihood of pipes loosening during installation.
2. High Viscosity Type
Suitable for large-diameter pipes, this type requires more time to dry, necessitating the holding of pipes in place post-application.
3. Colored Type
Available in various colors, these adhesives make it easier to monitor the joining process.
How to Choose PVC Adhesives
When selecting PVC adhesives, it’s important to consider their properties and intended applications. Note that quick-drying adhesives have a limited shelf life once opened and can clump or degrade over time. Pay attention to expiration dates, even for unopened packages, and discard any adhesive that appears unusual upon opening.
How to Use PVC Adhesives
To glue, clean the PVC surfaces of any dust or impurities, apply the adhesive, and allow the surfaces to slightly melt together. The drying time varies by adhesive type, so it’s advisable to support the joined surfaces for some time post-application. When used as a lubricant for pipe insertion, apply the adhesive to the pipe, insert it slowly, and provide support until it stabilizes.