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GRAIN FLOW 101

How to Repair Holes in Metal

Contents

  1. Welding
  2. Epoxy or Tape
  3. Using a UV Repair Patch to Fix Small Holes or Rust
  4. Applications of Instant Repair Patches
  5. Try a Patchworx UV Repair Patch for Metal Repair

Sheet metal is one of the most versatile materials in fabrication, used in countless applications and industries. While sheet metal is used in manufacturing because of its flexibility, it can also be prone to damage in high wear-and-tear applications.

Damage from accidents, weak spots or even poor maintenance over the years can cause holes to form in sheet metal. Rust is an especially common cause of holes in sheet metal. Whatever the reason for the damage, you have plenty of options for doing your own metal hole repair to patch up your material quickly.

Welding

The first option you have to fill holes in metal is by welding. If you want to repair a hole in a metal door or repair a hole in a stainless steel tank, then welding gives you the strongest, most permanent option. During the welding process, you apply a new layer of metal to the existing sheet metal to reinforce its durability, effectively making it thicker and stronger than it was originally.

There is a specific way to perform metal welding repair based on the type of metal and its application, such as fixing holes in a car body. Expert welders will know which type of welding technique to apply to make the repair spot strong enough to prevent future cracking. When hiring an experienced welder to repair holes in metal, be sure to ask about the technique they use, such as MIG (metal inert gas) or TIG (tungsten inert gas) arcs.

Epoxy or Tape

Epoxy and tape are two common no-weld hole repair options. These do-it-yourself approaches are effective when repairing a small hole rather than a significant tear. Specialty epoxy and tape products are designed to patch steel and metal. When you plug a hole with epoxy, it can sometimes be a permanent solution, depending on the extent of the damage and the quality of the patch job. Be sure to apply a coat of primer to the patched area after you’re done to seal the epoxy and prevent the hole from reforming.

Duct tape or aluminum tape is a simple, quick fix, particularly for auto body damage. It can also be painted over to camouflage the repair job. However, using tape to fix holes in a car body or any other type of metal should only be considered a temporary solution.

Using a UV Repair Patch to Fix Small Holes or Rust

For a more durable and permanent way to repair holes in metal without welding, try a UV repair patch. For small holes or rust damage, UV repair patches are nearly instant fixes that can get you back up and running quickly. UV repair patches work by applying the patch to the hole or rusted area and waiting for the UV rays from the sunlight to activate the patch, hardening it within a few minutes after initial exposure. If you’re working in a dark spot with no access to sunlight, UV repair patches can be activated and cured with UV light emitted from a lamp.

UV repair patches are a flexible, cloth-like material that can conform to any surface for a perfect fit. As an industrial adhesive, UV repair patches form permanent bonds with the metal surface, delivering long-lasting no-weld hole repair. UV repair patches are also waterproof, meaning you won’t have to worry about leaks or additional rust. Metal repair patches are also resistant to corrosion or oils and won’t wear out with continued exposure to UV light. Applying a UV repair patch is a quick process, taking under an hour to apply, sand and paint from start to finish.

Applications of Instant Repair Patches

UV instant repair patches are versatile solutions for instant metal repair. Compatible with hundreds of different products and surfaces, there are endless applications for instant repair patches. Whether you’re fixing something around the house, making autobody repairs or filling holes in industrial or agricultural equipment, UV repair patches will work for your situation.

If you’re wondering how to repair holes in metal, consider the following applications of metal repair patches:

1. Automotive

If you need to make autobody repairs, you might think the only way to get a permanent, strong patch is to weld the hole. Instant repair patches activated by UV light are a cost-effective and convenient alternative to fixing holes in a car body.

UV repair patches quickly fix rusted out bumpers or fuel tanks and patch holes in fenders, mufflers or radiators. The adhesive formula works on metal or fiberglass bodies and can be applied to either the interior or the exterior. UV repair patches are also great for recreational vehicles, motorcycles and trailers.

2. Industrial

Industrial settings are rough and rigorous, leading to wear-and-tear even on the toughest surfaces. If you’ve developed holes in your tanks, pipes or metal ducting, a UV repair patch can provide a high-quality repair job in a short amount of time.

For small holes or rust spots in HVAC equipment, applying a UV repair patch can deliver a high-quality, durable solution without the need for welding.

3. Agriculture

Sudden damage to agricultural equipment causes costly disruptions to a business. When you develop a hole in your grain handling equipment, it’s critical to get it fixed as quickly as possible. UV-activated repair patches are an essential supply to have on hand at any agricultural operation.

Replacing grain bins and agricultural equipment is expensive. Preserve your investment by making cost-effective and permanent repairs with UV patches. Instant repair patches help you quickly patch up a hole in your grain bins, elevator trunking and other grain-handling equipment, getting you back in operation with limited downtime.

4. Around the House

Homeowners know that ongoing house and yard maintenance is essential to preventing costly damage and retaining home value. To stay on top of your to-do list, keep instant repair patches on hand to perform ongoing maintenance around the house. UV repair patches can work on damaged garage or shed doors, as well as metal siding or gutters.

You can also use UV repair patches to fix your hobby or sports equipment, such as canoes, kayaks or snow and surfboards. With a UV repair patch, you can also restore damaged pool equipment or garden hoses.

Try a Patchworx UV Repair Patch for Metal Repair

Repairing holes in metal surfaces doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming job. You can quickly and conveniently repair holes in metal without welding by using a Patchworx UV repair patch by LCDM. Avoid messy epoxy and flimsy tape and get a durable, permanent solution with instant repair patches for metal holes.

Applying a Patchworx UV repair patch is a simple four-step process you can complete in under an hour. Patchworx comes in three different sizes to suit your repair needs. Order your Patchworx online today or contact the LCDM team!

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