Bakelite is a type of plastic that is highly durable and has been used for a range of products since the early 20th century. From jewelry and toys to furniture and appliances, Bakelite has been a popular choice for many items over the years. Despite its strength, however, Bakelite can still break, and it can be difficult to repair broken Bakelite. Here, we’ll look at how to repair broken Bakelite in a few simple steps.
What is Bakelite?
Bakelite is a type of plastic that was developed by the Belgian-American chemist Leo Baekeland in 1907. It was the first synthetic plastic created and was initially used in electrical appliances, jewelry, and toys. Bakelite is a strong and heat-resistant material and is still used today in a range of products, from jewelry and toys to furniture and appliances.
What Causes Bakelite to Break?
Bakelite is very strong and durable, but it can still break if it is subjected to enough force. This can be caused by dropping the item, or it can be caused by wear and tear over time. If the Bakelite has been subjected to high temperatures, this can also cause it to break.
What Tools Do You Need to Repair Broken Bakelite?
In order to repair broken Bakelite, you will need a few tools. This includes a heat gun or hair dryer, a drill, a hobby knife, sandpaper, a file, a soldering iron, and a screwdriver. You will also need some glue, such as epoxy, super glue, or silicone adhesive.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Broken Bakelite
Step 1: Prepare the Bakelite for Repair
Before you start the repair process, you need to prepare the Bakelite for repair. First, clean the broken Bakelite with a damp cloth. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be preventing the glue from sticking properly.
Step 2: Drill a Hole in the Broken Bakelite
Using a drill, carefully drill a hole in the middle of the broken Bakelite. This will allow you to insert the glue into the crack and will act as a guide for the glue. Be sure to use a drill bit that is the correct size for the Bakelite.
Step 3: Insert the Glue
Using a hobby knife, carefully insert the glue into the drilled hole. Make sure to fill the hole with the glue so that it covers the crack completely. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 4: Sand the Bakelite
Once the glue has dried, you can begin to sand the Bakelite. Using a file or sandpaper, carefully sand down the Bakelite until it is completely smooth. This will help to ensure that the glue has adhered properly.
Step 5: Reassemble the Bakelite
Once you have sanded the Bakelite, you can reassemble the parts that were broken. Use a soldering iron to heat the Bakelite and carefully reattach the broken pieces. Allow the pieces to cool completely before handling.
Step 6: Secure the Bakelite
Once the Bakelite has been reassembled, you will need to secure the pieces in place. Using a screwdriver, carefully secure the pieces together. This will help to ensure that the Bakelite remains secure and will not break again.