What you need is an adhesive that is strong, flexible, and long-lasting, while also allowing for future repairs (or for those moments when I realize I forgot to attach a ribbon connector). I’ve been using an adhesive called T-7000 for the past few months, and despite its Terminator-sounding name and somewhat lacking instructions (more on that shortly), it has performed exceptionally well.
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The adhesive comes in a convenient plastic tube, featuring a precision needle applicator that is kept clean by a pin inside the cap. This design ensures that it’s never a struggle to get the adhesive out.
The adhesive itself is a black, runny polymer with a noticeable solvent smell. It squeezes out into a bead about 1 millimeter thick, drying in approximately two minutes and achieving full strength in about 48 hours.
The tube comes fitted with a precision nozzle that has a needle in the cap to keep it from clogging up.
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However, the instructions on the tube leave much to be desired; they are confusing and riddled with typos. Some notable examples include “mattors of atention” and “possible stimulation to sking and eye.” The only redeeming feature is the incredibly small font in which they are printed — it’s virtually unreadable!
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The instructions on the tube are laughably bad.
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That said, using T-7000 isn’t rocket science. Simply open the cap, squeeze out a bead of adhesive, close the cap, bring the bonding surfaces together, and hold them for a couple of minutes.
For cleanup of any spills, you can use some isopropyl alcohol on a cloth.
Job done!
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I’ve used T-7000 for repairing various devices, including replacing broken lenses on a 360-degree camera, and it has performed flawlessly. While it’s impossible to guarantee that any repair will restore the original level of dust and water resistance, this adhesive does an excellent job of maintaining integrity.
Additionally, I’ve successfully used T-7000 to fix broken insulation on cables, as it creates a tough, rubberized coating that enhances durability.
ZDNET’s buying advice
At around $8 for a 3.7 fl. oz tube, T-7000 is an invaluable addition to any toolbox. Moreover, since a tube can last up to a year after opening, it offers fantastic value for money.
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