This is a common break on this brand of reactor. I did the same thing. I tried Weld On 40, and it did not bond. It seemed to work on the acrylic, but not the PVC. I threw the reactor in the closet because it scared me how easily it broke, and the fact there is only like 1/2" to bond. That isn't enough imo, and why it breaks so easily there. I was figuring to redesign it by drilling out the PVC fittings and put something else in there, but I haven't got around to that yet. :lol:

Interesting; did anybody raise the issue with Vertex?

Well, after the whole saga of getting the Weld-on 40, I applied a generous blob of resin all around the joint, and, fingers crossed, it seems to have worked. It is not leaking. But, man, what an ordeal! Somebody ought to have a chat with Vertex...

Personally I would send their customer service an email about the defect. At the very least they can fix it for new models or reach out to see how many others are affected.

I would, except their website has been under construction for months now. It's not easy to get in touch with them...

Do you have any pictures of the break?

Try touching base with the staff @ J&L. They usually have direct contacts or will take your feedback and pass along. Just a thought.