Metal Statue Repair
Before. This metallic substance is hard and reflective, but rigid and fragile.
Before. The lovely patina of this metal statue was preserved.
This was a most unusual metal statue repair. The sole supporting leg was broken clean off at the thin, vulnerable ankle. The metal appeared to be a composite of an aluminum alloy and some unknown fiber. Even if it could be welded, it was unlikely that the ankle could be returned to its original strength. The piece was about three feet tall and the ankle carried a lot of weight. Usually, the best course of action is the least invasive. But in this case, Owens needed a sure thing. Major surgery was required.
After. A small gusset was located behind the foot and ankle
Adding strength involved inserting a mild steel weldment into the metal base and the supporting leg. It slipped up through a hole in the metal base, to make as strong a connection as possible.
The other broken parts were repaired by using a combination of adhesive and steel rods. This was done in order to avoid welding - which may not have worked anyway - and to preserve the patina.
In the end, the metal statue repair has to survive being shipped back to the client. From Florida to Michigan. The client was happy.
The repair relies on an internal support, made of mild steel. It fits perfectly.
Other internal reinforcements included the use of steel threaded rod.