Aluminum components are known for their strength. But sometimes, they can simply break apart. Does that mean the component is not useful anymore?
Well, not really.
Did you know that you can simply glue aluminum pieces together?
It is possible, and you can do that in a few minutes using epoxy designed for aluminum. You don't have to torch weld or solder the pieces back together. Epoxy makes the task much easier.
Getting the epoxy for aluminum can get a bit tricky since there are so many of them available in the market. Don't worry, in this article, we will take a look at some of the best epoxy for aluminum available for any projects.
Let’s begin!
Best Glue for Aluminum Comparison Chart
Name | Cure time | Setting Time | Tensile Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
J-B Weld 8281 Steel Reinforced Epoxy | 15-24 hours | 4-6 hours | 5020PSI |
Hy-Poxy H-450 Alumbond | 16 hours | 45 minutes | 3500PSI |
J-B Weld 8277 WaterWeld Epoxy Putty | 1 Hour | 25 minutes | 1300PSI |
Marine-Tex RM330K Gluvit Waterproof Epoxy Sealer | 24-30 Hours | 60 minutes | - |
J-B Weld 8267 SteelStik Epoxy Putty | 1 Hour | 9 minutes | 900PSI |
Permatex 84209 Metal Epoxy | 4 Hours | 4 minutes | 4500PSI |
J-B Weld 50172 | 15-24 Hours | 20 minutes | 2350F |
Star Brite 4oz Epoxy Putty Stick | 1 hour | 30 minutes | 900PSI |
Amazing GOOP 5400040 Waterproof Epoxy Sealer | 10-12 hours | 30 minutes | - |
MASTERCOOL 90934 Alum Bond | - | 45 minutes | 3500PSI |
Hy-Poxy H-455 Alumfast Aluminum Glue | 1 Hour | 4 minutes | 3600PSI |
Top 11 Best Epoxy For Aluminum Reviews 2020
1. J-B Weld 8281 Reinforced Epoxy- Best JB Weld for Aluminum
J-B Weld is a great product for repairing metal components. It is a two-part epoxy that provides incredibly strong adhesion, which makes it useful in bonding two or more metal pieces without torch welding.
The two-part epoxy is very easy to use. Simply pour equal amounts of the product from the two tubes, and mix thoroughly on a disposable surface. Then coat the mix evenly on the surface. It sets in around 4-6 hours. The putty takes about 15-24 hours to cure.
The epoxy has a high tensile strength of 5020PSI. The repaired parts won't break off easily due to high pressures. It can also withstand temperatures of up to 550F. The putty when set can be sanded, drilled, and painted if required. The epoxy adheres to the surface very well and forms a strong bond between two steel components.
Since the product comes in a re-sealable tube, you can always save the leftover product for later use. The product is perfect for small or large DIY projects. It can be used for automotive, household, or any projects that require repairing.
The epoxy can be applied on a wide range of surfaces such as fiberglass, concrete, and more. The product when applied will repair the component in the first attempt. The superior quality and strong bond make J-B weld an incredible product.
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2. Hy-Poxy H-450 Alumbond 6.5 oz Aluminum Putty Repair Kit
The AlumBond epoxy from Hy-Poxy is a two-part epoxy that can be used to repair aluminum and other metal surfaces. It is a fantastic product that seals any holes and also repairs the damaged aluminum or metal surfaces.
The Alumbond epoxy is great for small or large repair work. It is an ideal tool for plumbers and mechanics. It has great adhesion and bonds incredibly well.
The formula contains pure aluminum particles. It also has curing agents and other additives that provide strength to the surface when applied. Applying the putty is very easy. Before the putty is applied, the aluminum surface needs to be properly cleaned. Then pour the two contents on a disposable surface and mix them together.
Mix the two products for approximately 3 minutes and apply the putty on the surface. The putty has to be properly applied to cover any source of leakage. The product takes approximately 45 minutes to cure. The putty when cured repairs the damaged surface and strengthens it. The surface can be drilled, tapped, or painted after the putty has set.
The putty can is able to withstand high temperatures of up to 250F. It also has a great tensile strength of 3500PSI and a compression strength of 8600PSI. This allows the product to be in multiple applications, such as tanks, HVAC pipes, valves, and more.
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3. J-B Weld 8277- Best Adhesive for Aluminum
WaterWeld is J-B Weld’s waterproof epoxy putty. When strength really matters, WaterWeld is the epoxy putty that works amazingly well.
The product comes in a stick. To use the product, all you have to do is take out the putty from the tube, then cut the amount of putty you need. After that, knead it well and apply the substance on the area that needs to be repaired. WaterWeld can be used to seal and repair just about any hard or wet surface. If needed, the cured area can be sanded, drilled, or painted.
The putty can be applied to a variety of surfaces. Application surfaces include stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, and more. The product is suitable for both small and large projects. You can simply repair a surface in the first attempt if done well.
Since it comes in a tube, you can put the unused putty back and keep it for later use. It's great for houses, garage, or any other projects. The product sets in about 25 minutes and cures in around an hour, even if the surface to be repaired is underwater.
WaterWeld is a versatile epoxy putty and is strong and permanent. When completely cured, the product can withstand heat of approximately 300F, and pressures of around 1300PSI. The product, when cured, is also resistant to fluids and chemicals.
WaterWeld is an amazing product that performs well and can be used to repair most surfaces very easily. If you are looking for the best epoxy for aluminum, this is the product that you should consider.
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4. Marine-Tex RM330K Gluvit Waterproof Epoxy Sealer
If you have an aluminum boat that has cracks and pinholes, you can repair it using the epoxy sealer from Marine-Tex.
Fixing rivets is now an easy task. The product seals any leaks and also protects the boat. The sealer has a great working time that penetrates deep into the surface. It then seals the crack and makes the surface strong. The product reduces corrosion and protects the surface.
The two-part epoxy is very easy to apply. You don't have to drill and re-revit the surface of the boat to repair it. Simply mix the two-part epoxy together and apply an even coat on the surface.
The 2lb of epoxy will cover a large area. You can apply a thick coat if required. The product can also be applied to wooden hulls. It will be absorbed by the wood and form a hard surface, protecting the hull of the boat.
When the product is applied, it needs to dry. This takes about 48 hours. After the sealant is dry, you can sand off the excess epoxy and then paint it. It seals the surface very well so you don't have to worry about any leaking issues. When the epoxy is cured, it forms a solid surface.
With this product, you can repair your boat and restore it very easily. The sealant can be applied to a wide range of surfaces. This includes aluminum, steel, fiberglass, and more.
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5. J-B Weld 8267 SteelStik Steel Reinforced Epoxy Putty Stick - 2 oz.
J-B Weld’s SteelStik is an epoxy putty that can be used to glue steel together. It is a quick solution that forms a strong bond, and resistant to rusting.
Applying the putty is very simple. To use the product, simply take out the putty and cut the amount of the product that you require. The two-part epoxy putty has to be kneaded by hand and after that, applied to the metal surface. As the putty comes in a stick, you can keep any unused putty and use it later.
The formula has a quick curing time. When applied, the product sets in five minutes and cures in approximately an hour. The product has a dark grey color when cured which blends in well with most surfaces.
The product is quite strong when set. The leap shear strength of 900PSI suggests that the bonded joints won't break off easily even under high loads. The product can also withstand temperatures of 350F, as well as intermittent temperatures of 450F without any problems. It is also resistant to chemical damage when set.
SteelStik can be applied to a variety of surfaces. This includes stainless steel, aluminum, fiberglass, plastic, and more. After the putty is set and cured, it can be sanded, shaped, and painted. The product is perfect for both small and large projects. It restores the strength of the surface and provides excellent performance.
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6. J-B Weld 50172 25 ml. MarineWeld Syringe
J-B Weld products are known for their excellent adhesive performance. The MarineWeld epoxy is no different. The product will seal and repair any chips and cracks easily.
The product consists of a sealant and adhesive. It is a great sealant and provides a strong bond between surfaces. The two-part formula has to be mixed thoroughly before the application. After applying the epoxy, it will strengthen the surface. The putty is also waterproof so you don't have to worry about water or chemical damage.
The product comes in a syringe that makes the application easy. It also has a re-sealable cap. This allows the epoxy to stay in its adhesive form and prevents it from drying. You can use the product multiple times.
When applied, the epoxy will take around 5 minutes to set. It has a curing time of an hour. If required, the product can be sanded, drilled, or taped. The adhesive is white in color, which will blend well with white-colored surfaces.
The epoxy can be applied to multiple surfaces. It works great on metal, plastic, aluminum, and more. The formula has a leap shear strength of 2350PSI which allows it to form a strong bond. It is also very flexible, as it can elongate by up to 55% when cured.
It is also the best epoxy for cast aluminum. Even then, you are looking to repair any surface, be it small or large cracks, this product is a great solution.
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7. Permatex 84209 PermaPoxy 4-Minute Multi-Metal Epoxy
The PermaPoxy is an epoxy that can be used to bind or repair metal surfaces. It is very easy to use and adheres very well to the surface. It is a versatile epoxy that can strengthen any metal surfaces.
The key characteristic of this adhesive is how well it bonds to the surface. The product will cover any gaps and scratches. You don't have to weld or braze the surface to repair it. It comes in re-sealable tubes so you can save some of the epoxy for later projects.
Applying the product is very simple. It is a two-part epoxy that needs to be mixed before applying. It sets in about 4 minutes and cures in 4 hours.
You don't have to clamp the surfaces together after putting the epoxy to the damaged surface. Once set, the putty will have a dark grey color which goes with most metal surfaces.
The epoxy is incredibly strong when cured. It can withstand pressures of up to 4500PSI. The epoxy can also withstand high temperatures of 300F. When the product is completely cured, you can sand, drill, or paint if needed. It can be used for a wide range of applications, such as sealing seams, fill cracks, or combining metal pieces together.
The putty is waterproof, which means that the surface will not rust. It is also resistant to solvents.
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8. Star Brite 4oz Epoxy Putty Stick - Make Fast, Permanent Repairs
Star Brite aluminum epoxy putty stick is a hand kneadable material that mixes in just one minute. It is a perfect tool for fast permanent repairs on aluminum surfaces. The epoxy contains special additives that increase the adhesive properties to weathered aluminum components.
Applying the product is straightforward. Cut a portion of the substance and mix it. You will have around 7 minutes to complete the repairing process. The putty will repair and cure the steel within 30 minutes. The epoxy can be sanded, filled, drilled, or painted after an hour. The putty will stay in shape after it is cured.
The epoxy putty has a tensile strength of 900SPI when applied to steel. You can easily attach two aluminum parts together. The bond formed is strong to keep them attached. That makes it the best glue for aluminum.
The epoxy also works well underwater. It can be applied on boats to stop leakages and can also be used to repair small cracks. It has a high-density formula that allows it to withstand high temperatures as well as pressures.
The epoxy can easily handle heat up to 250F. This makes it perfect for repairing mufflers, drive units, and more.
The putty can be used for all types of projects. It is very easy to use, and bonds components together with incredible strength. It is a great product to consider for quick aluminum repairs.
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9. Amazing GOOP 5400040 Coat-It Waterproof Epoxy Sealer & Protector - 2 lb Kit
The GOOP epoxy sealer is a fantastic product to seal or fix any cracks or holes in aluminum surfaces. It is an inexpensive product that works incredibly well.
This is the perfect product for beginners just because oh how easy to use it is. To apply the product, simply pour the contents and stir it properly. Then, apply the sealer on the surface that needs to be protected. With the 2lb of sealer, you can cover an area of 20 square feet.
The formula contains ceramic beads. This makes the surface abrasion-free. The product consists of reinforced Kevlarfibers. This increases the strength of the material and keeps the surface from getting damaged again. When applied, the sealer will dry quickly in around 10 to 12 hours. Applying a thicker coat will decrease the setting time.
The sealer is also waterproof that makes it perfect for repairing boat bottoms and truck beds. It will cover any small leaks in a single coat. When the coat is set, you can sand it and apply paint over it.
The sealer forms a smooth graphite coating when it sets. The graphite makes the coating slippery. This protects the surface of the boat and allows it to operate smoothly even over small debris. The product can be used on multiple surfaces. The sealer can be applied to aluminum, fiberglass, metal, and much more.
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10. MASTERCOOL 90934 Alum Bond A/C Repair Epoxy - 2 oz.
The Alum Bond epoxy from Mastercool is a two-component epoxy that can be used to repair aluminum and copper surfaces. The product works great as it covers any holes and repairs the damaged aluminum surface.
The epoxy consists of pure aluminum particles, curing agents, and other additives that strengthen the surface when cured.
The product is easy to apply. To apply Alum Bond, the surface needs to be cleaned first. The two components have to be mixed equally by volume. It has to be mixed in a surface that can be of disposed later.
The two components have to be mixed for about 3 minutes. Then apply the putty on the prepared surface. Make sure that any cracks or holes are properly covered. It sets in about 45 minutes and makes the surface durable. When cured, the patty has a metallic color that will blend well with the surface.
When the putty sets, it can be drilled, tapped, or even painted. The putty has a temperature resistance of 205F. It has a tensile strength of 3500PSI and a compression strength of 8600PSI. The putty can withstand high pressures, which allows it to be used in a wide range of applications.
The product can be used in components such as coils, valves, castings, and more. It is great at sealing holes in pipes and also holding two aluminum pieces together.
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11. Hy-Poxy H-455 Alumfast 6.5 oz Rapid Cure Aluminum Putty Repair Kit
Looking to repair leaks in your radiator or engine block? Then the Alumfast rapid cure putty is the perfect product for you.
Alumfast is a two-component putty that is very easy to apply. It consists of a formula that has pure aluminum particles, curing agents, and other additives. The formula prevents the surfaces from leakage and provides strength to the material.
Applying the product straightforward. The two contents need to be combined equally by volume. It needs to be mixed for around 2 minutes. The surface needs to be roughened which allows the putty to adhere well. When applying the product, make sure that it covers any holes or gaps properly.
The putty has a curing time of approximately 45 minutes. When cured, the surface can be drilled or painted if necessary. The putty has a high tensile strength which makes it ideal for industrial applications as well as automotive repair. You can easily put two pieces of aluminum together. The putty has a dark color when set.
The product has a tensile strength of 3600PSI. It is also resistant to temperatures of up to 205F. The putty has a super strong adhesion which makes it easy to repair damaged HVAC copper pipes. It can also be used in copper coils, radiators, valves, and more. The product is perfect for adding strength to damaged aluminum surfaces.
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How To Choose Epoxy For Aluminum?
1. Dry Time
Knowing how long the epoxy takes to set and cure is essential. This will determine how fast the epoxy will take to dry and also, how fast the material will be repaired. The time it takes for the epoxy to dry can range from a couple of minutes to hours.
An epoxy that has a fast setting and curing time is preferred. The faster the epoxy dries, the sooner you will be able to use the item.
2. Surface Compatibility
Some epoxies vary in terms of which surfaces they can be applied to. Not all epoxy supports every surface. Applying epoxy to a compatible surface is fine. It's always better to have a product that supports multiple surfaces as you may have to repair other surfaces.
3. Temperature Range
Most adhesives set at room temperatures. If the item is situated in a place where it is too cold or hot, the adhesive might not be able to dry properly. It's better to get a product that supports a good temperature range so that it can set properly regardless of the ambient temperatures.
After the epoxy is set, it must be able to withstand high or low temperatures. This is important if the repaired item is subjected to extreme temperatures.
4. Epoxy Application
Not all epoxies are suitable for all types of jobs. You might have to repair a surface that is exposed to moisture, such as plumbing pipes. The best aluminum epoxy for such application would be the one with waterproof feature.
There can also be instances where you have to repair a large crack. That may require a certain type of epoxy depending on the surface.
Benefits Of Using Aluminum Epoxy
Using epoxy putty has multiple benefits. Here are some of them:
1. Toxic Elements Free
Epoxy putty doesn't contain toxic content. This makes it a very environmentally friendly option to repair cracked metallic surfaces. This also makes it very easy to handle and use. Epoxy also has high cohesion. The fumes can't erode in the environment.
2. Easy To Clean
Surfaces such as aluminum are easy to clean. When the epoxy is set, the surface can be cleaned easily. If the surface gets stained, it can be easily washed off. You can simply use water to clean off any stains.
3. Waterproof
Applying the putty on a cracked surface makes it waterproof. This means that you don't have to worry about corrosion issues that can damage the aluminum surface overtime. The putty will restore the strength of the surface and make it completely resistant to water or leakages.
4. Durable
Epoxy putty for aluminum and other metal surfaces are very durable. When the putty is applied, it cures and becomes a solid surface. The best epoxy for aluminum can last a long time, even when exposed to high temperatures and pressures as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How To Apply Epoxy Putty?
To apply the epoxy putty, the surface to be applied needs to be cleaned and roughened. This will allow the putty to stick to the area properly. Then cut an amount of putty that is required, and knead it properly to form a uniform color. Keep the hands wet during mixing the putty to avoid it from sticking on the skin.
Then apply the epoxy to the surface that needs to be repaired. At this point, the putty will not bond properly. Make sure to force the putty in the cracks or holes that have to be filled, and remove any excess putty. After about 10 minutes, the putty will seal and will be cured in around 1 hour.
2. Can Epoxy Be Used On Multiple Surfaces?
This depends on the product. Some epoxy for aluminum works with other materials such as metals, fiberglass, PVC, and more. There are also those that can be used on a single material. The epoxy used on the right material will provide superior adhesions and great performance.
3. Can Sealers Be Used To Cover Pinholes And Cracks?
Using an epoxy sealer works great in covering holes or cracks on surfaces such as aluminum and wood. The sealer forms a hard surface when applied, which strengthens the base of the surface.
Final Thoughts
There you go. The epoxies we mentioned in this review will work on all aluminum surfaces. There are other types of glue that can be used to attach aluminum components, but epoxies are very popular due to the strength and easy application.
The best epoxy for aluminum will allow you to fix your broken components in no time.You can use the epoxy in several DIY projects, some of them can be used for a variety of different surfaces as well.
If you are someone who works on projects that involve aluminum, this is a tool that you should always keep in your workstation.
We hope you enjoyed this article. Take care!
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