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| A new tool-free glue that's fast and dependable |
| By Derrell Day, a carpenter from Panama City, Florida who contributes
frequently to the JLC Finish Carpentry Forum. |
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FastCap has
recently introduced a revolutionary new fast-acting glue that sets
in about 10-15 sec. and is virtually unbreakable. I cut miters on
the ends of several pieces of baseboard about 4" long and no one’s
been able to break
one yet, at least not without stomping them on
the floor. |
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| Fastcap’s 2P-10 is a two-part adhesive that’s really easy to
use: The adhesive comes in a squeeze bottle and the activator is
in an aerosal can (it’s available in a squeeze bottle, too). Glued
miter returns are done in about 15 seconds with no visible glue
line. |
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| 2P-10 comes in a medium viscosity for melamine and smooth
surfaces, or thick for raw wood-to-wood. There’s also a gel for
heavier applications. But be very careful about what you glue with
this stuff—AND WATCH YOUR FINGERS!! Do not get this glue on your
pencil then put the pencil behind your ear. There is a slight learning
curve when using this glue, and if you aren't careful you can become
a part of your work. A debonder is available and probably a good
investment. |
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| 2P-10 is a CA type adhesive, but has acidic stabilizers added
to compensate for the highly acidic nature of wood. Those stabilizers
are not typically found in CA glues. And as for the typical type
of white residue left behind by other CA adhesives, I’ve seen no
evidence of it with 2P-10. I’ve used this stuff on MDF and various
woods. I’ve noticed no outgassing, and though the product seems
a little pricey, I’ve been using the same 8oz. bottle of the thick
2P-10 since April, and it’s still half full. What I’ve saved in
time far outweighs the cost of the glue. |
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In fact, I haven’t touched a miter clamp since I started using this
glue. I apply the glue to one side of the joint and spray the activator
directly onto the glue. At first I sprayed the activator on the
opposing piece as per the manufacturer’s instructions, but I found
applying the activator to the glue REALLY sped things up. (Yes,
I’m obsessive about time….) I’ve been able to narrow down the open
time to about 5-8 sec.
I do mostly stain grade work and this glue has been remarkable for
every application. It even works when immediately applied to joints
that have just been stained. At my miter table I keep a stain pot
and brush so as soon as I make a cut I stain it with the brush,
wipe off the stain with a rag and immediately glue the joint. I
haven’t experienced any joint failure, ever. But part of the learning
curve is getting the parts aligned quickly and holding them together
tightly, while simul-taneously "rolling" your fingers a little to
prevent accidental flesh-to-wood adhesion. And in my work there’s
plenty of opportunity for that--especially when I'm gluing up 22
1/2 degree wall returns, which I'm able to nip in only 15 seceonds.
The glue completely
cures in 30sec. when you apply the activator. If you need a little
more open time, don't use the applicator.
As for shelf life, I've had the product for about 3 months, and
it’s stored in my trailer (which reaches about 120-130° during the
day!). I’ve seen no change in the glue. The manufacturer claims
that 2P-10 has been tested in a 5-year environmental chamber with
extreme temperatures, hot and cold, with no adverse effects.
You can get the glue from HGH
Hardware in Birmingham, Al. Ask for Terry. You should order
the 8oz. bottle of 2P-10 and a 12oz. bottle of Activator, or you
can purchase a Solo kit which contains a can of activator and a
2 oz. bottle of glue if you want to give it a try first. But take
my word for it, this is the good stuff, guys! No more clamps, pin
nailing, glue squeeze out or mess.
(HGH Hardware 800-277-8888).
Fastcap 2P-10 solo |
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