Laminate HDU to HDU (&/or MDO) w Titebond ?

My first thought was why don't you machine out the background and leave the copy as part of the rout file, rather than cutting the letters, and bonding them on after. But the more I look at it, the letters, the outer circle with the "rope" element, and the inner circle, are the only thing routed, and the back layer is just what, flat HDU cut into a circle?

I believe I would use west systems epoxy to hold it, and then use a screw from the back side to add a mechanical fastener as an extra little bit. And I would avoid any assembly in the field. I would want a completed sign ready to install on site. A lot of times, I will go to the hardware section, and I'm not sure what they are called, but Stanley makes them. It is a short flat piece of metal with several holes already punched, to attach (2) items together... I rout a small slot on the back, and attach it the included screw (if it doesn't protrude thru the face) and then pour in some west systems epoxy and sand it smooth. That gives little mounting tabs to install the sigh with.

 

We use Titebond 2 Polyurethane glue to adhere the HDU to whatever backing panel we're using. It expands like Gorilla glue but not nearly as much.

 

Mark, actually, but I've been called worse...yeah, it has been a while...

That actually makes a lot of sense... And having the pockets is a good idea, I typically don't pocket, just because unless your using a really small diameter bit, or the letters are rounded, there will always be a little bit of a fitment issue...but I'm also using a 35 year old (assuming) Baby Gerber AR660 Router, that like me is a little cantankerous, and you have to "massage" its ego to get it to do what you want...

As far as the Titebond Poly glue that Tim suggested, I have no experience with it. I know that one of the foam manufactures makes a glur got their foam, and I have a small bottle here, but I have yet to use it, but I can't for the life of me remember what it is...

 

We have used acrylic polyurethane adhesive that comes in a tube for chaulking gun. Doesn't expand and stay workable for a while.

 

On a sign like that we would some kind of nice cleat. Frame on the back of the foam,frame on the walI. stopped gluing HDU to another substrate a long time ago.When we use HDU today it's a robust shell around a frame. Have had failures in the past. Especially with gluing to MDO on a 2 sided sign.Rots out quick HDU moves a lot. need to look at the expansion of the disimilar material before you decide what glue to use.Gorilla glue for example dries hard and take little movement.

 

What about screwing from the back with counter sunk screws?

 

Did you ever get rid of that HP printer giving you so much trouble? Good to have you back.

 

Will the seams be concealed somehow?

 

So much easier to fabricate for interior installs where it lives in a controlled environment without direct sun and temperature swings.