Soldering PLA together? Will it work?

[DerekPeterson]

I know this is a rather crazy question. However, has anyone ever tried to solder to 3D Printed items (PLA) together using a soldering iron? Would it work? I know there are times when we want to print something large that won't fit in my build volume. Also times when we rather just print smaller parts. Could this work, if done correctly?

[easyrider112]

I tried it. It is possible, but difficult to make a reliable connection. You can coat the melted pla from one piece to the other. I would say, try it yourself

[Davo]

Welding plastic works fine, you just need a steady hand and a gentle touch.

Old school fused deposition.

[Compro01]

You fused it together to start with, so there's no reason why you can't do it again. Only issue is getting the entire surface of both parts to the right temperature uniformly.

Or you can run a bead like this guy does.

Alternatively, use some solvent cement.

[jimc]

yes plastic welding is done every day. there are a few types of welders. the cheapest is no more than a soldering iron with a temp controller on it. others use hot air some use nitrogen.

[Rickward]

This is also a method that can work on getting rid of the print lines that show up from the layering of PLA. I've tried it but it takes a lot of time and skill.

[Chayat]

I've put motorcycle fairings back together after a fall by welding the back face with a soldering iron. Not sure what kind of plastic they were.

[jimc]

chayat, most side fairings are a nylon and abs mix except yamaha which is polypropylene. the rest of the fairings are abs. i work on sportbike bodywork everyday that how i know but yes you can plastic weld them back together no problem. the only issue with a soldering iron is the temp is completely uncontrolled and or way too high for plastic so 90% of the time the plastic is cooked from the heat and its half broken down, charred or boiled making bubbles which results in a weak weld. its really not much different than welding metal. for a strong weld its experience and having the right tools for the job.

[kennycoulter]

all good info. IU was confused before opening and reading, and was also going to suggest krazy glue. I am still new to printing, and don't get to mess too much, but I finished a recent failed print by gluing a few extra layers.

[evanfinkle]

yeah, Like kenny said, if you're in a pinch, superglue definitely does the trick, but everybody else says its doable. Best of luck with it, also show images when done?