5 instructions for cold welding: how to use it?

Universal glue in a matter of minutes eliminates not only leaks in the heating system or water pipe. It is used for fixing linoleum and baseboards, ceramic tiles and mirrors, and any other objects. Cold welding is in great demand among car enthusiasts and emergency repair specialists. On the road, such glue will be useful for restoring the integrity of loaded suspension elements - you can independently drive to the repair site. Stopping a radiator leak or eliminating a muffler burnout in a matter of minutes without disassembling components is not a problem for cold welding.

Which brand of cold welding should I choose?

The market offers a large selection of cold welding adhesives of domestic and foreign production. Traditionally, high quality repair work is ensured by compounds from Linocol

,
Poxipol
, "
CONTACT
",
IMG
.
Almaz
and
TANGIT
(Henkel Corporation brand)
welds are popular among buyers metal-working NANOPROTECH
is also attractive, but can be difficult to obtain.
Adhesives for PVC materials “ Point
” and “
Secunda
” have good adhesion, and domestic
ASTROCHEM
is distinguished by high heat resistance. The presented brands have long established the central niche of the cold welding market and are deservedly considered one of the best solutions depending on the tasks at hand.

Choosing a universal glue: what to look for?

When choosing cold welding, in addition to the brand and price, the following parameters are important:

Type of bonded surface.

There are universal adhesives for metal, linoleum and rubber, plastic and concrete. Moreover, the composition allows you to combine materials in any combination, combining into one whole, for example, concrete and wood, rubber and plastic, steel and glass.

Vibration resistance.

Cold metal welding withstands vibration loads, is resistant to aggressive environments and temperature changes. Successfully restores the tightness of radiators, tanks and fuel lines, oil pans and other elements.

Tear resistance.

Restoration of components operating under physical load using universal glue allows the connection to withstand forces of up to 200 N*m. Such welding is indispensable for emergency repair of a car suspension, as it will allow you to independently eliminate the malfunction (broken lever, rod, etc.) and get to a service center or garage without the help of a tow truck.

Heat resistance.

A special type of cold welding that can withstand heating up to 150-250˚C. It is successfully used to restore car mufflers, highways and heating system equipment.

Moisture resistance.

Adhesives of this group are impervious to moisture, and in some cases can be applied even to a wet surface, maintaining high adhesion to it.

Hardening time.

Since cold welding is often used for emergency repairs, setting time is important. The smaller it is, the better.

Top 5. "CONTACT"

Rating (2021): 4.21

11 reviews taken into account from resources: Otzovik, YandexMarket

Eliminates emergency leaks without drying Thanks to its high adhesive ability, the universal cold welding “Contact” can quickly eliminate a leak in a pipe, oil pan or gas tank without first drying the damaged area.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 239 rub.

• Country Russia
• Weight: 50 g
• Curing time: 180 min.
• Temperature resistance: -40…+150˚C
• Number of components: 2

The universal adhesive has proven itself excellent in restoration and gluing of various metals, glass, ceramics, plastic, and wood. Easily takes a given shape and sets quickly. For cold welding, stopping a leak in a water pipe or gas tank is not a problem. At the same time, the glue performs its task by working with a wet surface. Due to its high adhesion, “Contact” perfectly seals the most inaccessible places. The plasticity of the compound prepared for work decreases sharply after 3-5 minutes, so you need to work with it quickly. Treating the base during application (cleaning and degreasing) increases the reliability of the connection, however, during emergency repairs this is not always convenient.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Hardens quickly
• High adhesion
• Solvent resistance

• Foundation preparation required

What happens?

Cold welding, created on the basis of epoxy resin, is a worthy competitor to the usual method. It comes to the rescue in cases where it is not possible to use the usual one due to various reasons. The only thing to keep in mind is the inferior strength of the seam.

The composition affects the quality of the connection and state of aggregation.

1. Liquid. The kit includes an epoxy resin solution with filler and a hardener. Individually, the components are inert and can be stored for a long time. Before use, squeeze out the required amount of mass in a 1:1 ratio. The resulting mixture is applied to the workpiece according to the instructions,
2. In the form of a bar. Outwardly, it is practically indistinguishable from children's plasticine. Depending on the composition, the bar or cylinder can have one or two layers. The upper part received a darker layer (epoxy resin). The core consists of hardener and metal dust. The latter increases strength and resistance to temperature and mechanical stress. Cut off the required amount from the mass and knead thoroughly with your hands, adding a little water. Mash for 5 minutes. Then applied to the surface. The mass quickly loses its plasticity. Therefore, gluing should be done as quickly and accurately as possible.

According to the method of connection they are divided:

• Spot. To close a small hole (eliminate a leak in a pipe).
• Suture. The mass is applied along the entire length of the crack, completely covering it.
• Butt. To connect two parts.
• Tavrovaya. Glues brass pins and busbars of electric locomotives.
• Shear welding. Suitable for water supply pipes, heating systems, and railway transmission lines.

The choice of glue is determined by the composition and specification. The range covers almost all spheres of human life. Depending on the intended purpose, there are:

1. Universal. Can be used to work with almost all materials. Has the lowest strength. Withstands temperatures up to 260C. Designed for gluing polymers, ceramics, wood, metal, plastic. They interact with metal only in cases where it is not used in harsh conditions. They act as an indispensable assistant in the household.
2. Working underwater. Two-component moisture-resistant compounds are in demand among plumbers. The product is applied directly to the leaking pipe. Available in liquid and semi-liquid form.
3. Automotive. Cracks, through holes and leaks are well known to every vehicle owner. To solve such problems, the compositions must be resistant to oxidizing agents, temperature changes, and vibration. The tensile strength is at least 200 newton. Bar welding completely fills the resulting deformation.
4. For metal (cast iron, aluminum, etc.). The composition contains a certain filler that reliably connects almost all types of surfaces.
5. Concrete. The group received increased bonding qualities. This is due to high hygroscopicity and dust generation. They resort to its help when restoring monuments, statues, products and, if necessary, securing something without resorting to drilling.

Top 4. NANOPROTECH NPGSU 0006

Rating (2021): 4.26

• Characteristics

  Average price: 147 rub.

• Country Russia
• Weight: 55 g
• Curing time: 25 min.
• Temperature resistance: -60…+150˚C
• Number of components: 1

The versatility of NANOPROTECH cold welding allows you to join metal, wood, plastic and stone into a single whole. The plasticine-like consistency of the glue (after kneading) takes on a given shape and can be used in the restoration of any elements, including those working under load. The compound perfectly tolerates temperature changes, exposure to moisture and solvents. After hardening, it can be processed (grinding, drilling, painting, etc.). Buyers are pleased with the price, but the glue is poorly represented in retail, which makes it difficult to quickly purchase.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plastic
• Suitable for loaded elements
• Processable

• Can be difficult to buy

See also:

• 10 best adhesives for PVC boats

Top 3. "DIAMAZ" METAL

Rating (2021): 4.39

39 reviews from resources taken into account: Reviewer

Best price Universal adhesive “Diamond” has the most affordable price among cold welding products.

The most popular cold welding Low price and high performance characteristics of the joints make ALMAZ cold welding the most popular in the domestic market.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 90 rub.

• Country Russia
• Weight: 20 g
• Curing time: 30 min.
• Temperature resistance: +5…+150˚C
• Number of components: 2

The top participant in our rating, ALMAZ METAL, has gained great popularity among consumers due to its high efficiency and ease of use. The two-component adhesive composition based on epoxy resin demonstrates the best adhesive characteristics in relation to ferrous and non-ferrous metals. The presented cold welding reliably holds parts together, eliminates a small leak in a radiator or water supply system, and restores the integrity of the item. Among the advantages is the ability to work with a wet surface. Not everyone likes the pre-glue preparation stage - the top layer is very sticky and gets your hands dirty.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Moisture resistance
• Durable seam
• Black color

• Component mixing process

See also:

• 5 best welding machines for polypropylene pipes

Criterias of choice

There is no single answer to the question of which cold welding is best for metal, because there are no ideal compositions. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

1. First of all, you need to study the composition. In order for the seam between metal parts to be as strong as possible, the structure of the epoxy resin must be more uniform.
2. When using gluing on high-temperature devices, you need to see what temperatures the product can withstand after hardening. The seam will lose its strength when heated above the permissible temperature.
3. Freezing time. If you need to carry out quick repair work, it is important to buy quick-hardening glue.

Advantages of cold welding

Any method of connecting parts has both strengths and weaknesses. Advantages of cold welding:

1. Reliability of connections.
2. No electricity or gas costs.
3. There is no additional training required to use cold welding.
4. The application process takes place using improvised means.
5. When used correctly and with a high-quality composition, the finished seam is stronger than the material being glued.
6. Fast hardening. You can start using the glued part after 2-3 hours.
7. No waste after use.

Unlike hot welding, cold welding does not expose the item to heat and subsequent destruction.

Manufacturers

Below are the most famous cold welding manufacturers:

• Poxipol;
• Penosil;
• Zollex;
• Diamond;
• Alteco;
• Nowax.

There are other companies that produce mixtures for gluing metal, however, the most popular ones were presented here.

Top 2. ASTROhim heat-resistant Total Bond AC-9315

Rating (2021): 4.41

Better thermal stability of the connection Cold welding ASTROhim Total Bond can withstand heating up to +250˚C. This is the best rating indicator.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 120 rub.

• Country Russia
• Weight: 55 g
• Curing time: 180 min.
• Temperature resistance: -60…+250˚C
• Number of components: 2

For hermetically sealed gluing and restoration of parts made of ceramics and various types of metals, two-component Total Bond adhesive is suitable. High resistance to maximum temperatures in the range of -60...+250˚C allows the use of this composition in automotive applications. Cold welding is also effective in assemblies operating under load. After preparing the compound, the plasticity of the adhesive mass allows you to recreate even a threaded connection. The disadvantage is the need to fix the applied layer for several hours, but the strength gained over time evokes sincere respect among the owners.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Affordable price
• Excellent heat resistance
• Connection strength

• Requires fixation before hardening

See also:

• 15 best liquid nails

Rules for working with glue

For proper use, it is advisable to read the instructions for the specific product. However, there are some general tips:

1. 
   It is necessary to remove dirt on the surfaces to be glued.

2. Care should be taken for rough uneven surfaces. Light roughness is even desirable: the grip will be better. Surfaces are treated, for example, with sandpaper and cleaned.
3. They need to be degreased before gluing. This can be done, for example, using acetone.
4. It is better that the parts to be glued are dry. Although there are also waterproof adhesives.
5. Two-component compositions are mixed, one-component ones are simply kneaded with your fingers. The composition will warm up a little in your hands.
6. There is no need to use a press or press hard.

Features may relate, for example, to readiness time: how long it dries depends on the brand. As a rule, initial hardening occurs within 10-20 minutes. Some brands have up to 5 minutes, others up to an hour.

Primary hardening does not mean that you can start using the item. Only hardening occurs, and the mass is no longer suitable for work. This time must be taken into account so that all the crushed material remains in the desired condition.

Complete hardening usually occurs within a few hours. It all depends on the brand of cold welding.

Top 1. "Second" 403-203

Rating (2021): 4.45

97 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Ozone

The most universal cold welding Secunda glue is the most universal in the rating. With its help you can connect the largest number of materials in any combination - from linoleum and metals to glass and wood.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 305 rub.

• Country: Russia (manufactured in China)
• Weight: 75 g
• Curing time: 6 hours
• Temperature resistance: 0…+60˚C
• Number of components: 1

Construction adhesive "Secunda" 403-203 does an excellent job of joining PVC materials of different densities. Users note an invisible and ultra-strong seam when working with water pipes, plexiglass, linoleum, etc. Using this cold welding, you can fill chips and cracks in plastic, wood, glass, metal and stone. Resistance to moisture allows the product to be used for gluing parts in contact with water. The composition gains maximum strength after complete drying for 6 hours. If the instructions for use are not followed, the surface of the linoleum may be corroded.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Glues well
• Large volume
• No needle to apply

• Requires careful use
• Takes a long time to set

See also:

• 10 Best Shoe Adhesives

to the beginning of the rating

Tips and tricks

Once it has become known what materials are used for gluing welding and how long it takes for cold welding to dry on metal, it is necessary to take into account some recommendations:

1. Before using epoxy resin, you need to wet your hands so that the adhesive does not stick to them.
2. Can be used on steel, cast iron and aluminum.
3. It is important to use safety glasses when working.
4. Do not use resin for gluing dishes and containers that come into contact with food.

If the resin gets inside the body, you need to drink a large amount of milk and consult a doctor.

Cold welding is considered the best option for fastening metal objects and repairing various breakdowns. The seams are weaker than from hot welding, however, much stronger than when using other adhesive mixtures.

Top 5. Linocol Bostik

Rating (2021): 4.07

Best hardening speed Cold welding for PVC Linocol Bostik hardens within a minute after application - this is the best indicator in the rating.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 290 rub.

• Country: France
• Weight: 60 g
• Curing time: 1 min.
• Temperature resistance: +5…+35˚C
• Number of components: 1

One-component cold welding for rubber and polyvinyl chloride products (pipes, linoleum, etc.) reacts with the surface being treated and transforms the joint into a homogeneous area within one minute. Polymerization of the seam eliminates the passage of moisture - this is one of the best compounds for sealing and connecting PVC pipelines. A convenient needle attachment for careful application is very useful - if glue gets on the decorative surface of the linoleum, it will not be possible to remove it. After a quarter of an hour, the treated area is ready for work. Among the shortcomings, the owners indicate only a pungent odor (disappears after hardening) and the high cost of Linokol.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Best setting speed
• Moisture resistance

• Strong odor before drying

Top 4. IMG MG-425

Rating (2021): 4.19

• Characteristics

  Average price: 220 rub.

• Country: USA
• Weight: 50 g
• Curing time: 10 min.
• Temperature resistance: -50…+149˚C
• Number of components: 2

IMG MG-425 adhesive is the best choice for a wide range of applications. Due to its resistance to high temperatures and aggressive chemical compounds, the presented composition is used for car repairs. It is successfully used as a cold weld to restore a gas tank, radiator, muffler, etc. In the process of gluing various parts, the epoxy base demonstrates optimal setting speed and strength of the seam, which can withstand mechanical loads. Some users believe that due to the strong smell, welding IMG MG-425 is not suitable for work inside residential premises.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Non-corrosive
• Fast cure
• Doesn't change volume

• Strong smell

Characteristics and composition

Cold welding is a special adhesive for metal, the composition of which can be one-component or two-component. The adhesive mass is applied either continuously to obtain a long seam, or pointwise. Plastic paste allows you to restore a broken or damaged part, seal a crack, or properly close a hole.

Cold welding - composition:

• epoxy resin providing excellent adhesive qualities, high ductility and uniform structure;
• metal component in powder form - aluminum, cast iron, iron, copper or steel - is used as a filler;
• additional elements that increase the consumer characteristics of the product - adhesion, seam strength, resistance to external influences, holding temperature, resistance to mechanical stress and others.

The quality of gluing largely depends on the proportions and composition of the glue, correct application, accuracy of following instructions, and compliance with the recommended operating parameters of the finished product.

Top 3. Point H-44

Rating (2021): 4.35

25 reviews taken into account from resources: Wildberries, Ozone

The most accurate application Cold welding Point H-44 has a special needle for application, resulting in a small but no less strong seam when joining butts.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 285 rub.

• Country: Poland
• Weight: 100 g
• Curing time: 24 min.
• Temperature resistance: -30…+80˚C
• Number of components: 1

When carrying out interior renovation work, users often choose Point H-44 cold welding. The presented glue helps to organize a high-quality and neat joint when laying linoleum yourself. For maximum efficiency and precision of application, the package includes a hard plastic needle tip. The transparent seam is durable, resistant to moisture and chemical compounds. Most of the reviews about this product are positive; dissatisfaction often occurs when the glue is used for other purposes. They also note that the nozzle is not thin enough.

Advantages and disadvantages

• For rigid PVC
• Elastic seam
• Ease of use

• Needle diameter

How to choose?

1. Decide on the purpose. The welding must be appropriate for the material being exposed. Otherwise problems may arise. As a last resort, it is possible to use glue with a metal core.
2. Permissible temperatures. If the part is exposed to prolonged heat or is under an open flame, it is necessary to purchase appropriate compounds.
3. How quickly it dries. If there is a need for urgent repairs, it is recommended to have 2 types on hand. First use welding and allow it to dry for an hour. This will help solve the problem. But since the layer does not have high strength, apply a long-drying compound (24 hours) on top.
4. How to remove. To do this, use solvents or acetylene. The liquid is carefully treated with the frozen substance and lifted by the edge. This can damage the finish, especially wood and glass. Therefore, it is necessary to be extremely careful when using cold welding.

Top 2. TANGIT EPOXY-LOCK

Rating (2021): 4.58

The best combination of price and quality German cold welding TANGIT EPOXY-LOCK is characterized by high frost resistance, adhesion, and resistance to aggressive environments. The glue is relatively inexpensive, demonstrating the best price-to-product capabilities ratio.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 250 rub.

• Country: Germany
• Weight: 48 g
• Curing time: 70 min.
• Temperature resistance: -40…+110˚C
• Number of components: 2

Once the TANGIT EPOXY-LOCK two-component cold seal mixture is prepared for application, the user only has 3 minutes. High adhesion makes it easy to manually repair leaks in water pipes and heaters without blocking the lines. Universal glue is quite environmentally friendly, as it does not contain solvents. Users like that after hardening, the composition holds the glued parts (wood, plastic, metal, concrete, etc.) at -40˚C, and is impervious to water, solvents, oils and gasoline. The disadvantage is that it will not work with materials such as polypropylene and Teflon.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Can work on wet surfaces
• Sets quickly
• Frost-resistant

• Doesn't stick to polypropylene

See also:

• 12 best wood glues