Tamiya Extra Thin Cement is a liquid solvent glue for polystyrene kits. It is very low in viscosity, so instead of laying a bead on the surface you fit the two parts together first, then touch the loaded brush to the join and let capillary action pull the cement along the seam. The solvent softens the mating faces and, as it flashes off, welds them into a single piece — a cleaner and stronger result than a glue that sits on top of the plastic. It suits precise assembly where you want no visible glue and no mess: crisp seams, small parts and pre-fitted joints. The screw cap carries a pointed brush for controlled application.
Screw cap with a built-in pointed brush, for controlled application into tight joints
Extra-low viscosity — flows into pre-fitted seams by capillary action instead of sitting on the surface
Welds polystyrene and styrene kit plastic by softening the mating faces, so parts fuse rather than sit glued
Also used to make “sprue goo”: dissolve sprue offcuts in the bottle for a same-plastic gap filler that shrinks less than commercial putty
It is a solvent welder, not a putty — it fuses surfaces that already meet, so a missing-plastic gap still needs filler. Highly volatile, so work quickly and keep it off clear parts, which it can craze
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Notes · Q & A
When do I use plastic cement instead of super glue?+
Use plastic cement on polystyrene kits — it melts the surfaces and welds them into one piece, which is stronger than any surface bond. Use super glue for resin, metal, and gluing dissimilar materials that cement can't chemically fuse.
What's the difference between thin and thick plastic cement?+
Thin, capillary cement is watered into an already-fitted seam and flows along it by wicking. Thick cement is brushed on before assembly and gives a little working time to position parts. Many modellers keep both for different jobs.
How do I stop super glue frosting clear parts and detail?+
CA fumes leave a white haze on nearby surfaces, so keep it well away from canopies and lenses. Use PVA or a specialist canopy glue for clear parts, and let CA cure with airflow rather than trapped in an enclosed space.
What does a super glue activator actually do?+
Activator cures CA on contact, useful for gap-free instant bonds or setting a part you can't clamp. The trade-off is a more brittle joint and possible frosting, so use it sparingly rather than on every join.
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Notes · Logistics
Shipping
Orders placed before 3pm (Mon–Fri) are dispatched the same day. UK delivery is by Royal Mail 24 Tracked. Free UK delivery on orders over £70. International delivery available via Royal Mail International Tracked or courier.
Returns
If you're not happy with your purchase, contact us within 30 days for a full refund or exchange. Items must be unused and in original packaging.
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Table · Specification
Technical specifications
Product details
Brand
Tamiya
Product code
87038
Type
Plastic Cement
Shipping weight
280 g
Barcode
4950344071258
Composition & curing
Chemistry
Solvent cement (n-butyl acetate, acetone)
Sets hard
40 s
Dimensions & contents
Volume
40 ml
Usage & compatibility
Bonds
Polystyrene
Bonding action
Capillary action
Applicator
Brush-in-cap
Safety & compliance
Signal word
Danger
Hazards
H225 Highly flammable liquid and vapour, H315 Causes skin irritation, H319 Causes serious eye irritation, H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness, H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects