You can glue brass to aluminum using different types of adhesives, such as:
- Epoxy Glue
- Super Glue
- Polyurethane Glue
These are the three most recommended types of adhesives to glue brass and aluminum together.
This guide will show you the steps you should follow to get the best results the easy way.
We will also show you why these are the best glues for this project and how to properly prepare the brass and aluminum before you glue them to get the strongest and most durable bond possible.
So keep reading.
Which Glue Is Best To Glue Brass And Aluminum Together
As mentioned earlier, the best three types of glue to use to glue brass to aluminum are the following:
- Epoxy Glue
- Super Glue
- Polyurethane Glue
Epoxy Glue
Epoxy glue has two parts, the epoxy resin and the hardener. Before applying, you need to mix the two parts into one and stir well.
Epoxy glue forms a very strong bond, and it is durable. Once the glue cures, it lasts for a long time.
Steel Weld is an epoxy glue often used to glue brass to aluminum, generally repairing or making brand-new jewelry.
Steel Weld PermaPoxy epoxy glue is compatible with aluminum, brass, metal, stainless steel, and steel.
The bond of this glue is so strong that you can bond surfaces together that otherwise, you would need to weld or braze together.
The following are some of the other features of this epoxy glue:
- Water-resistant
- Solvent resistant
- Multi-metal use
- Dark grey
- Permanent strength
- Gap filling
- No clamping needed
- Sets in 4 minutes
- Will not shrink
- It can be drilled, sanded, filed, and threaded when cured
Super Glue
Super Glue, or cyanoacrylate glue, can bond brass to aluminum. It is commonly used because it cures very quickly.
Super Glue is not as strong as epoxy glue, so it should bond small pieces together or spot bond.
Of course, not all superglue will bond brass to aluminum. You need to work with one made to bond to these surfaces.
Here is an example of a super glue that can bond brass to aluminum.
LB10 Instant Adhesive Metal Special Adhesive is a super glue that can bond brass to aluminum.
Here are some of the main features of this superglue:
- Water-resistant
- Clear
- Non-toxic
- Environmentally friendly
- Very sticky (strong bond)
- Odorless
- Instand bonding
Once you are done working with this super glue, store it in a cool and dry place. Keep it away from direct sunlight or any heat sources.
Polyurethane Glue
Polyurethane glue is the adhesive you should use to glue brass to aluminum if the bonded project is issued to or kept either outside or in an environment with moisture levels.
Polyurethane glue generally provides water-resistant benefits and is resistant to fading or discoloring. These adhesives also typically provide UV protection.
An example of a polyurethane glue that is great at bonding brass to aluminum is Akfix PA360. This glue is compatible with metals.
Here are some of its main features:
- Offers superior bonding
- Waterproof
- D4 formula for tight surface bonding
How To Prepare The Brass And Aluminum For Gluing
As with any other surface, preparing brass and aluminum is important if you want to have a bond that is the strongest and most durable.
Even if there is no grease stain or debris on the surface, there could be oxidation that needs to be removed.
To clean the brass and aluminum, add isopropanol or acetone to a clean cloth and wipe it down thoroughly. Then, use sandpaper to smooth the surface, especially if there is still an oxidation buildup.
Then wipe it clean with a clean cloth. Allow both surfaces to dry.
Once the brass and aluminum are dry, you are ready to apply the glue.
How To Properly Apply The Glue To Brass And Aluminum
Now that the brass and aluminum are clean and dry, you can apply the glue.
If you use epoxy glue, mix the resin with the hardener in a clean container.
Once your epoxy glue is prepared, or if you are super glue or polyurethane glue, follow these steps to glue brass to aluminum:
- Apply a layer of the glue to both surfaces
- Align and press them together
- Use clamps or any other tools (such as tape) to secure them in place
- Allow the glue to fully cure – at least 24 hours or more, depending on the type of glue
- Remove the clamps
Curing time differs depending on the glue you are using and the environment it is working in.
The glue will cure better and quicker if there is good airflow in the working space.
If you are working with larger pieces and need to apply more glue, this will also influence the drying and curing time.
Make sure you allow the glue enough time to dry and cure properly.
Conclusion
Gluing brass to aluminum is a simple project that yields lasting results with the right tools.
The types of adhesives mentioned in this guide – epoxy, cyanoacrylate, and polyurethane – are the ones that work best for gluing brass to metal.
Other types of glue can also be used, but the bond won’t be as strong and durable.
