Adhesive and Equipment Options

Adhesive and Equipment Options for Different Applications Hot melt adhesives are fundamental components in many manufacturing industries. They are commonly used in applications such as packaging, product assembly, cable assembly, automotive interiors, woodworking, and insulated glass. The hot melt process consists of heating a thermoplastic polymer and applying it as an adhesive to parts and components in liquid form. As the plastic cools, it returns to solid state to create a tight and secure bond. Depending on the binder material and the tools used, hot melts can produce bond strengths comparable to welding. Hot melt adhesive is an important component in most of today's complex manufacturing processes. Some applications include packaging, product assembly, woodworking, binding, cable assembly, insulated glass, automotive interiors, RV lamination, solar panels, advanced composites, and more. Regardless of application, unplanned downtime and production loss can cost businesses thousands of dollars annually. As solid materials without solvents or water (at room temperature), hot melt adhesives provide excellent adhesive strength in a short timeframe. Once heated, hot melt adhesive can penetrate the material surface and create a strong bond. Depending on the bonding material, the bond resulting from high temperatures during the application process can be comparable to welding.

Adhesive Types and Equipment Components

Regardless of application, selecting the proper adhesive and equipment can help reduce costly downtime and production loss from adhesive failure. Additionally, by choosing appropriate nozzles, hoses, and modules for specific applications, you can increase process speed, minimize waste, and reduce adhesive errors. Typical hot melt equipment consists of three main components: hose, module, and nozzle. Hot Melt Hoses: These are tube-like structures responsible for delivering molten adhesive to the nozzle. These flexible, reinforced hoses must be specially designed to work with the selected module and nozzle. Incorrect hose selection can compromise component reliability, leading to problems such as fracture and clogging. Hot Melt Modules: The module is the heart of the hot melt adhesive system. It is a valve that dispenses molten adhesive. The amount applied by the module is also controlled by a nozzle. Like all other parts, the selected module must be compatible with the rest of the system, including the hose and nozzle. The module must also dispense the intended adhesive type and be suitable for the specific adhesive application mode. Hot Melt Nozzles: The nozzle has the most significant impact on adhesive application quality, consistency, efficiency, and performance. When selecting the correct nozzle for your application, you should consider various factors such as adhesive pattern, number of holes, hole diameter, nozzle angle, and gun style. To ensure optimal adhesive performance, it is essential to use the correct type of adhesive along with equipment components. The hot melt process can be performed with various thermoplastic types, each with properties that can be used for different applications.

Some of the most common adhesive types are:

EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): This thermoplastic polymer is economical and effective at temperatures between -22°F (-30°C) and 175°F (80°C). EVA is the most common type of hot melt and is widely used in packaging and product assemblies. PA (Polyamide): PA is more expensive than EVA but offers higher levels of heat resistance. Service temperatures range from -76°F (-60°C) to 266°F (130°C), making this polymer widely used in woodworking, automotive, and electrical industries. PP (Polypropylene): Polypropylene is a versatile thermoplastic polymer commonly used in adhesive spray formulations. It is lightweight, relatively durable, and resistant to chemical degradation. Polypropylene is effective in temperature ranges between -22°F (-30°C) and 230°F (110°C). Due to its wide range of properties, PP is used in applications ranging from consumer packaging to adhesives in the medical industry. PUR (Polyurethane): PUR melts are non-toxic, cure quickly, and are resistant to temperature and weather conditions. This adhesive absorbs a small amount of moisture to undergo a chemical reaction that causes it to solidify and form a strong bond. PUR adheres to glass, plastic, metal, and wood, making it ideal for furniture, footwear, boat building, and various other assemblies.

Efficient Production with the Right Adhesive

While the hot melt process may seem simple on the surface, there are several factors related to adhesive and equipment that must be carefully considered for optimal adhesive application performance. Once requirements are understood, finding an option that offers an effective solution will be much easier and more accurate.

Pumps and Pump Systems for Cold Systems

Liquid adhesive pump systems and pressure tanks accommodate a wide range of adhesive viscosities and application pressure requirements. Cold adhesive pump systems and cold adhesive application equipment can be configured for low, medium, or high pressure and single or multiple adhesive gun outputs. Numerous mounting options are available to facilitate easy integration into new or existing production lines.

Liquid Adhesive Pumps and Pressure Tanks

Liquid adhesive pump systems and pressure tanks can accommodate a wide range of adhesive viscosities and application pressure requirements. Cold adhesive pump systems and cold adhesive application equipment can be configured for low, medium, or high pressure and single or multiple adhesive gun outputs. Multiple mounting options offered with cold adhesive dispensing systems allow for easy integration into new or existing production lines. Sources • https://www.nordson.com/en/divisions/adhesive-dispensing-systems/products/pumps-and-pump-systems • https://www.graco.com/us/en/in-plant-manufacturing/products/sealants adhesives/sealant-supply-systems-pumps.html • https://www.thomasnet.com/insights/how-to-choose-the-appropriate-adhesive-equipment-parts-for-yourapplication/?_ga=2.42818983.387078201.1652775046-67476456.1652775046 • Images: shutterstock.com / pixabay.com Translation and Compilation: B. Serhat Cengiz