Question about welding acrylic

[chopper320]

I'm going to try to build a small frag tank and I had a quick question about welding. I'm going to use the pins method. Since I don't have a router, I had the pieces cut at the acrylic shop out of 1/2" acrylic. The tank is going to be 20x16x6.
I did not account for leaving a 1/8" ledge on the side pieces to apply the Weldon. When the sides sit on the bottom piece it comes out flush to the edge. Will I be able to create a good seal without having the small ledge to allow the Weldon to filet when I apply it. I'd like to avoid having to drive to the other side of town to go back to the plastics shop to have those extra cuts made.

 

[heathd.hd]

You want it sitting flush on all parts or it won't seal. Better off getting it cut again.

 

[chopper320]

It sets flush but I see most people leave a 1/8" ledge to apply the weld on and I didn't leave that extra area. It's actually perfectly flush but I wasn't sure if it would seal that way.

 

[heathd.hd]

Oh yah your good. Don't need a over hang

 

[TJ's Reef]

The pins are used to just separate the pieces temporarily so the solvent has a chance to properly soften surfaces to be welded. After a minute or two the pins are removed and project can be lightly clamped until cured. I f there are any saw kerfs you will want at least block sand them somewhat smooth.


Cheers, Todd

 

[Reefing Madness]

No need for the overhanging ledge. TJ's got ya covered on this one.

 

[chopper320]

Thanks guys! One more question. They only had weldon 3 but they told me that would be fine to use. Is that accurate? I know most use Weldon 4

 

[Reefing Madness]

I believe that either one works just fine.

 

[heathd.hd]

Ok I've used both. 3 just cures faster than 4. So if your using 3 you just have to go go go. 4 you can take your time.

 

[heathd.hd]

I personally like 3 though