Fusion Welding of PE and PP Thermoplastic Materials
Since there are no effective adhesives for figures and model kits made of thermoplastic materials such as Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP), a permanent bond between two parts can only be achieved by fusion welding. The illustration shows an Airfix 1:76 scale American Quarter Horse, whose hooves have been welded to the base from below. A pin heated over a candle flame is usually sufficient for fusion welding small plastic figures. However, a pulse-regulated soldering iron, preheated to a setting 6, is more precise, cleaner, and safer.
Using a regulated soldering iron, individual hooves can even be welded to the top of the base by carefully pushing molten plastic material under the hoof, fusing the parts. This joining technique is particularly suitable for Airfix horses when individual hooves hover just above the base, causing the horse to lean sideways or even wobble on its base.
Useful Applications
- Soldering soft Plastic Figures and Horses to their Bases, 1:76 Airfix
- Soldering Broken Plastic Miniatures, Swedish Infantry, 1:72 Revell 02557
- Soldering the Hotchkiss HMG Team, 1:72 Revell 02505
- Reconstructive Foot Surgery – German Afrika Korps, 1:76 Airfix 01711
- Simple Soft Plastic Figure Conversion – Soviet Infantry, 1:72 ESCI P-203
- Soviet Tank Rider Conversion, 1:72 ESCI P-203
- Repair Broken Plastic Reading Glasses – Thermoplastic Welding