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How to Repair HDPE Parts

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) parts are used in the creation of items such as food containers, boats, plastic building materials and fuel tanks. It is both durable and chemically resistant. Molding HDPE can be done with a heat gun and will not change the chemical structure of the product. If you find any cracks or holes in your HDPE part, you can repair it with an extra piece of HDPE and a heat gun.

Things You'll Need

Drill
Carpenter's knife
Extra piece of HDPE
Heat gun
Tape measure

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length of any cracks or holes in the HDPE part. Cut a piece of your extra polyethylene and make it 2 inches larger in width and length than the crack or hole.
- 2
  Drill holes around the ends of the crack or hole at 1 3/4 inches away with your drill for a crack. Drill holes three-quarters of an inch away from a hole. These holes will help secure and adhere to the extra polyethylene you cut.
- 3
  Heat your cut polyethylene with your heat gun. Once it starts to melt, place it on top of the crack or hole with your carpenter's knife and allow it to melt into the holes you drilled. Once the extra piece starts to cool, pour water on it to seal it.

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