Aluminium adhesive

[Danielroyal25]

Just about to assemble the gantry (50x100x6 aluminium box section). I was originally going to bolt it together, but now may have it welded. But unsure of welding due to possible distortion so was wondering if anyone has used any form of adhesive to join aluminium?
If so what adhesive and how well did it work. Does it reduce flex over bolting the box section together. Will welding them distort?

[EddyCurrent]

Same question myself, there seems to be plenty of choice re. adhesive but as you say first hand experience feedback is required.

[GEOFFREY]

Don't know about adhesives, but I think welding will cause even greater distortion than with steel. G.

[C_Bubba]

When I built my router (primarily to make PCBs) out of aluminum, and not having access or the ability to TIG, I chose to bolt and use Loctite E-20NS adhesive.
That has been a couple of years now and the machine is still "glued" together!
Along the line, I have also done some milling and engraving of aluminum and brass! YMMV, but I am sold on it1

[JAZZCNC]

Wouldn't weld it together aluminium distorts something silly when welded and then it will be stressed so will start changing shape when these stress's release over time.!!. . . . Just bolt it together with adhesive like Loctite or epoxy.

[Greeny]

Have a look at Structural epoxy.
3m make a good range.
They bond Ali, Steel and other stuff.
check out this lo-tech, but impressive demo.
DP-420 3M EPOXY overlap shear test by Doctorbass PART 1 - YouTube

it aint cheap tho, surprisingly

Edit: There are now room temperature versions that are very nearly as strong.

[njhussey]

You could always try Durafix brazing sticks, I've just bought one to try!