Application instruments, tools and equipment for applying adhesives and sealants can easily pay for themselves. Customization will accelerate the payback period. A more efficient working method will save time, less glue or sealant loss will occur and the end result will often improve as the quality of application will improve.
Application instruments, tools and equipment specifically for adhesive and sealant processing companies require specialized knowledge of adhesives and sealants, the processing methods and application processes.
Jasmin Seppanen

Pneumatic adhesive dispenser for hot melt

fill level indicator on pneumatic adhesive dispenser for hot melt

Pneumatic dispensers help apply reactive hot melt adhesives

Is your glue gun the right one for your needs? High quality application equipment plays an important role in hot melt adhesive. Depending on the application, either automatic or manual equipment can be used: in this article we introduce a piece of manual equipment, more specifically a pneumatic adhesive dispenser system, designed for reactive hot melt adhesive cartridges made of aluminum.

This hot melt glue gun is designed to tackle some issues known to most pneumatic glue guns: it has a built-in adhesive level indicator and a PTFE coated closed tank. These two design features allow for adhesive waste reduction and increased efficiency as well as greater process reliability resulting in lower TOC (total cost of ownership).

Benefits of of a high quality pneumatic adhesive dispenser gun

Reactive hot melt adhesives can be applied using a pneumatic adhesive dispenser system designed for either beads and dots or spray applications. A pneumatic glue gun for hot melts is a good choice of equipment especially when low to moderate adhesive consumption is expected. The hot melt guns can be used throughout industries, but they have benefits that come in handy especially in automotive assembly, packaging and electronics applications.

When a pneumatic hot melt glue gun has been chosen to be used for manual applications, the adhesive dispenser should be of high quality in order to get the most out of it. This high quality pneumatic glue gun has some characteristics which make it a perfect choice for when low waste and high efficiency are desired.

  • Easy to operate: in order to guarantee efficient use of the hot glue melter and dispenser, a glue gun should have advanced ergonomics, simple parameter settings and one hand closure. Additionally, the level indicator that tells how much adhesive is still left in the cartridge, makes using the hot melt adhesive easier to dispense.
  • Minimum maintenance: another factor that contributes to the hot melt adhesive efficiency in the long run is the need for maintenance. A high quality pneumatic glue gun is often fluoropolymer coated (PTFE) and has a closed tank which together reduce the need for maintenance: no adhesive residue will stick to the tank, which makes changing cartridges easy and reduces failure rate and handling issues.
  • Eco friendly: this model of pneumatic adhesive dispenser has digitally controlled temperature settings which allow for extreme accuracy for hot glue melting. It also has the option to program automatic temperature reduction. This automatically reduces the overall energy consumption and contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. Additionally, the level indicator makes sure all the adhesive is used, cartridges are not changed too eraly and no waste emerges.
  • Versatility: allowance for different spray patterns and a wide range of accessories make this pneumatic hot melt glue gun versatile. Additionally, the hot glue melter can be used for a wide range of reactive adhesives (as long as they come in 310ml aluminum cartridges), which provides even more possibilities.
  • Process reliability: The fill level indicator of this model as well as microprocessor controlled stable temperature and replicable spray patterns increase process reliability.

Summing up all the aforementioned benefits, the best pneumatic hot melt adhesive dispensers have an excellent price-performance ratio. In the long run it pays back the initial investment which may be little higher than with less innovative hot melt glue guns. Our experts can further help you choosing the best pneumatic adhesive dispenser for hot melt!

Pneumatic hot melt glue gun: how it works

A pneumatic adhesive dispenser is made for hot melt adhesives that come in aluminum cartridges. It is fairly easy to operate, has a modern design and innovative features.

pneumatic glue gun for hot melt adhesives on its stand
The pneumatic adhesive dispenser for hot melts has a modern design and innovative features.

Once the glue gun cartridge is placed inside the pneumatic adhesive dispenser and the device is switched on, the cartridge becomes pierced by two spikes: one that pierces the tip of the cartridge and another that goes through the topside of the aluminum cartridge. When the hot melt adhesive trigger is pulled, compressed air flows into the cartridge discharging the adhesive. Note that the glue and the nozzle may be as hot as 200°C.

This model also has a fill level indicator which tells how much hot melt adhesive is left in the cartridge and shows when the cartridge must be changed.

TIP: In order to maximize the efficiency, at least two of the reserve cartridges should be kept in a cartridge preheater which eliminates the need of time consuming heating of the cartridges in the pneumatic adhesive dispenser. A pneumatic adhesive dispenser for hot melts should have a modern design and innovative features.

Buy glue gun for hot melt adhesives

It is not always easy to find the right pneumatic adhesive dispenser for hot melt adhesives: there are many models, prices and features. In case you are interested in high quality pneumatic hot melt guns from manufacturers with a proven track record, contact us and get in touch with a specialist. Our experts are happy to help you buy a glue gun that increases the efficiency of your processes while reducing waste.

Contact us now, and make sure you don’t miss out on the best deals: high quality products, service and advice on buying, testing and implementing as well as repair services when needed.

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Glenn Stockschen

Industrial applicators for glues and other adhesives

Glue Mixer Adhesive Pump

Industrial application of mixed glues and other adhesives renewed

The application of mixed glues and adhesives is accurate, efficient and innovative, if one uses the right machine with the best technology. Increasingly, the industry is turning more and more to precise machines and volume-based systems, which dose a specific, consistent amount of adhesive over time.

Characteristics of adhesive applicators

Not all “glue machines” are created equal. There are two main branches of adhesive application machines: pressure-based and volumetric-based. That said, whether one calls it a glue applicator, a glue mixer, an epoxy machine or something else, the products vary as much as the types of adhesive and the range of applications.

A high-quality adhesive applicator should be able to mix and process different types of adhesives:

Glue spraygun.
  • polyurethanes
  • MS polymers
  • SMPs
  • epoxies
  • polysulfides
  • silicon-based adhesives
  • methyl acrylates
  • contact adhesives

Adhesive should be applicable manually or through an automated mechanical system. Generally speaking, adhesive machines can fill around electric components in their casings, inject into empty spaces, such as aluminum profiles, applying sealant increases and even dose into containers for later processing with manual instruments such as brushes or spatulas. Product applications range from industrial filter production to adhesive bonding of metal and glass surfaces to synthetics.

What to look for in an adhesive applicator or industrial glue machine

Adhesive applicators can mix and dose in many different ways. Choosing the “best” one often comes down to good fundamentals:

Minimal to no pulsation. Pressure-based applicators, such as piston pump-based ones, risk pulsations that can cause an inconsistent mix ratio. Volumetric dispensing systems, on the other hand, have the potential for greater consistency in application.

Precision. For obvious reasons, no one wants to apply adhesives inconsistently or dose inaccurately For example, minimal pump slack-tolerance significantly affects accuracy, though many gear pumps lack such advancements that make surfaces perfectly smoothed.

Ease of use. A good adhesive applicator is universally applicable and able to handle jobs both big and small. For example, some epoxies may require 200 bars of pressure, while some adhesives are processed with less than 50 bars. In some situations, a bigger installation is the best suit. In other situations, a compact dosing installation that can simply be set on a table or work bench is the best-suited.

Little to no maintenance required. Polyurethan applicators often have multiple gear pumps to dose in shots as well as continuously, electric motors, and even pulse generators that provide dosing feedback in attempt to maintain mixing ratio consistency. With so much technology in one machine, it is important for the technology to sustain itself. Indeed, the best machines on the market are double-sealed and fitted with hardened layers that practically guarantee a long, maintenance-free lifespan.

Long-lasting and durable. The more components in a product, the more that can go wrong with that product. This is why the best applicator companies offer a wide array of mechanically adjustable options. For example, some applicator guns smartly use components such as bayonet connectors. These reduce or remove altogether the need for cleaning screw-threads. In addition, a well (and ideally, easily) maintained machine has a life span of 15 years or more.

Green. Low energy consumption depends on high efficiency. For example, a good polyurethane machine includes software that safeguards application, such as pot-life control, pressure monitors, speed of dosage, and filling quantity. Some applicators have pot-life monitoring technology that automatically refreshes mixed material and leaves minimal residual waste. The results of the aforementioned are less mess and less waste. This is the foundation for a greener society.

Let us help you find the best adhesive applicator for your next project. CLICK HERE to learn more.

What is the best adhesive applicator for your industry needs?

Liquid adhesive application systems can accommodate low, medium or high-pressure outputs, along with the full spectrum of viscosities and application pressure requirements. For example, some more advanced machines offer automatic calibration, single-component flushing mechanisms, and automatic purging, to ensure that mixing ratios deviate at a minimum.

Often the best adhesive applicators operate using a volume-based system that dispenses adhesive in specific, consistent doses. Unlike pressure-based systems, such as piston pump-based applicators, volume-based applicators can handle differences in viscosity to maintain a stable adhesive yield across a surface. In addition, quality can and should come at an affordable price.

Because there are so many options available, it is important to aim for the best fit. Some applicator producers custom build their equipment for the end-user. It is also important to work with a supplier whose product development and technical service are in-house or sourced to a known network. In this way, possible future repairs can be carried out by staff familiar with the product and who can supervise production as well as repair. Indeed, some glue machine companies have their own engineering department, so that customer needs in terms of software, build and service can be directly integrated into product specifications.

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Do you have questions about adhesive applicators, and what the best fit is for your needs? Contact our customer support team for guidance to identify the product best-suited for you and to connect with industry-leading specialists.

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Jasmin Seppanen

Automated glue application machine for stone strips

prefabricated panel systems made with automated glue application machine

New machine enables automated glue application for prefabricated panels

Traditional masonry construction is a time consuming process which involves high transportation costs and possible installation delay due to the weather conditions. The masonry walls also need a lot of space. Fortunately, similar results can be achieved using prefabricated panel systems which are much lighter in weight. That is why the panels are common in facade renovations and refurbishments. However, they are also suitable for new buildings. These panels can be made either manually attaching brick strips on a panel backing board or by using an automated glue applicator. The applicator provides the strips with adhesive dots and places them on the backing board. The automated glue application machine is by far more efficient than manual assembly of the panels. 

Easy and efficient installation of prefabricated panel systems

The new automated glue application machine is suitable for making prefabricated panel systems of common masonry materials. These include for example brick strips, stone, natural stone, tiles, mosaic and glass. It makes it possible to manufacture prefabricated wall panel systems in a conditioned environment. This results in fast paced production and a neat end result of consistent quality. The prefabricated panels can be further processed, packed and easily delivered to the site. The installation can take place in almost any weather conditions. Compared to brickwork, the installation of the panels is also easy even on high rise buildings. 

Benefits of the automated adhesive application machine

If a building has an old brickwork facade that needs maintenance or a change of color, or the facade needs increase in safety in case of fire, it is good to consider replacing the brickwork with prefabricated panels. Better yet, if the panels are made using an automated glue application machine, the renovation is possible in a short period of time. 

The new adhesive application technique allows for making prefabricated panels faster, and automatic application of an adhesive on the stone strip. This machine is suitable for making prefabricated panels with most types of brick slips, stone, glass and ceramic strips. The finished panels are suitable for both new buildings and refurbishments (renovations). Depending on the materials, interior and exterior wall panels can be made. 

The most important benefits summarized

  • Suitable for different adhesive systems: a controlled and beforehand determined load of  the adhesive is dotted on the backing board in one pass in which the stone strip is placed on the adhesive. The machine does not limit to one type of adhesive, but it can vary depending on which materials require bonding.
  • Versatile in use: the machine is suitable for creating different kinds of wall panels. These include for example interior and exterior cladding for new buildings, recladding walls as well as infill panels and soffits.
  • Increased efficiency: this automated glue application machine enables smarter building solutions, faster and requiring less experienced people.  
  • Traditional looks: using this machine allows for the prefabricated panel systems to follow any traditional architectural style. Also more modern looks are achievable. 
  • Neat end results: gluing the brick strips to the panels in a controlled environment, guarantees neat results. 
  • Reduced costs: last but not least, automated glue application in the process of making prefab wall panels can reduce costs. As these panels require less materials, they weigh less, which reduces transportation costs. Not to mention that the high degree of automation requires less skilled manpower.

Efficiency beyond compare with automated glue applicator

The choice of the application method and equipment is often the key to a successful adhesive application. This is also true for making prefabricated wall panel systems. Traditionally the assembly of the prefabricated panel systems is manual and includes applying the adhesive and the brick strips. Using this method and an adhesive such as masonry veneer mortar, the average speed is about 1 square meter per employee per hour. On the other hand, the new automated glue application system for panels allows for an average speed of 20 square meters per hour, and requires two machine operators.

Investment paid back within three years

It goes without saying that the initial investment is significantly higher if one chooses for an automated glue applicator. However, the investment is calculated to be paid back within three years. Less skilled people are needed and the production is sped up. In those three years you will have finished 10 times the work you would have using a manual system.

Interested in the automated glue application machine for making prefabricated panels?

If you are looking to speed up the process of manufacturing prefabricated wall panels using this new patented technology, contact us. We are happy to connect you with the supplier. Next to providing the machinery, the supplier is available to help with the set-up and start of the panel production. Not forgetting the possibility of on-site support and maintenance.

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Discover more solutions for building & construction

Jasmin Seppanen

Adhesive application methods and equipment

roll coating machinery adhesive application methods

Choosing adhesive application methods and equipment

As adhesives come in a wide variety and versatility, there are also numerous adhesive application methods and equipment to carry out the application. One application method is not better than the rest, but the choice of how to apply adhesive should be based on the adhesive types, the nature of the product, surface requirements, initial investment, maintenance costs and labor costs.

We distinguish between six main types of adhesive application methods which are described later on in this article, and can be realized with various adhesive application equipment. The methods include:

1. Dots and beads
2. Spray
3. Web coating

4. Brush and trowel
5. Curtain coating
6. Film application here

Adhesive beads & dots – most common of adhesive application methods

One of the most common adhesive application methods are beads and dots. Adhesive beads and dots are usually applied through different dispensing nozzles which allow for precise placing of the dot or bead. The simplest form of a glue dot applicator machine is a hand held squeeze bottle, however in industrial applications other, more advanced equipment is used.

There are several pieces of equipment that are used for creating precise and consistent beads and dots in certain patterns. These include handguns, automated pneumatic guns, automated electric guns and jetting. The advantage of applying adhesive beads and dots is that the equipment offers complete control over where the adhesive is applied as well as how much of the adhesive is used. However, purchasing the equipment may be rather expensive even though costs are reduced due to minimum adhesive loss.

Handgun – the basic adhesive equipment

Handguns exist as cartridge based and hose fed systems. The cartridge based handguns are handy as they are portable. They are an inexpensive option for field work, touch ups and low volume assembly. Nevertheless, they require expensive cartridges and frequent filling. The product quality is dependent on the skills of the adhesive applicator.

Hose fed handguns are common hot melt adhesive application equipment. They can be used for horizontal gluing on flat panels with nozzles that create dots or spiral patterns. Hose fed handguns offer more consistent output than cartridge guns.

Automated adhesive application with a pneumatic gun 

Pneumatic air driven guns are often used when automated adhesive application of dots or beads is desired. The automated glue application systems guarantee accurate timing, and they are not affected by adhesive viscosity or system pressure. Nowadays, the most innovative automated pneumatic gun application equipment is reliable and has a long service life, which reduces replacement costs. Most of this adhesive equipment can run at a speed of 3500 cycles per minute or more.

Automated electric gun

When better pattern control and consistency are required for high speed adhesive applications, an automated electric gun is a proper choice of equipment. They usually incorporate an all-electric driver which optimizes performance. As compressed air and dynamic seals are not used, automatic electric guns have lower costs and require minimum maintenance. Their service life is also generally longer than the one of pneumatic systems, which makes it one of the cheaper adhesive application methods.

Jetting with an industrial glue machine

Jetting is a non contact adhesive application method which is used only for applying dots and beads. In electronics assembly, jetting is a common application method since it allows for dispensing material in small spaces. In this adhesive applicator machine the jet moves above the substrate and uses a high speed mechanism to shoot precise and consistent dots, patterns or lines onto the substrate. This allows for extremely fast and accurate application of adhesives. Additionally, the jets require minimum cleaning and maintenance, which reduces costs.

Spray application of adhesives

Next to beads and dots, spraying is one of the most widely used adhesive application methods as it allows for applying a thin layer of almost any adhesive over a large surface in a short time. Spray application also enables adhesive application on uneven substrates. However, as the adhesives are atomized in the spray gun, much of it can be lost in the air (over spray), which requires additional safety measures and consideration of costs of lost adhesive. The over spray may also result in more extensive cleaning than when working with other adhesive application methods and equipment. Nonetheless, today´s innovative glue spray machine systems have reduced over spray – if you want to know more about zero over spray systems, contact us.

Air spray as adhesive application equipment

Low volume low pressure (LVLP) spray systems are suitable for applying consistent and thin layers of low viscosity adhesives. Typically, round or fan patterns of various diameters up to 165 mm can be applied. These adhesive application systems generally result in over spray yet they offer the possibility to adjust fluid flow, nozzle air and post air cutoff.

Airless spray – Reliable adhesive applications

Airless spray guns are ideal when maximum reliability is required in high production adhesive applications. These systems also allow for automation, controlled deposition and reduced over spray. Airless spray works the best when moderate viscosity adhesives are used. Air-actuated spray systems are preferred when precise application and high speed are desired.

Fiberized spray in 3 patterns

Fiberazion is the adhesive application method that forms an open net-like pattern that is a meltblown, swirl or random fiber. Fiberized spray provides accurate pattern control and minimizes over spray.

  1. Meltblown: meltblown nozzles allow for high speed production and continuous application. These are very suitable for wide web lamination and they improve the looks and hand-on personal hygiene products and result in excellent fine fiber adhesive coating in high speed tissue plybonding.
  2. Swirl: these nozzles increase bond strength and improve product quality in hot melt adhesive non wovens, laminating applications during product assembly. Usually adhesive fiber size, density and pattern width can be controlled. It is possible to make low density, large fiber patterns for best bond strength, open patterns for absorbency and high density, fine fiber patterns for heat sensitive substrates.
  3. Random fiber: there are also nozzles that are suitable for producing random hot melt adhesive coatings for continuous high speed lamination of roll based materials. Random fiber nozzles enable dense, uniform coverage with tight edge control and patterns. This can yield tolerance to process parameter changes, consistent bonding and improved product quality.

Web coating – an efficient adhesive application method

Web coating is a method where different adhesive application equipment can be used to create a web-like pattern of adhesive onto a wide variety of substrates. For most of the web coating equipment, it is crucial that the substrate is flat and even. The web coating adhesive applications can be automated, which increases the process speed.

Slot applicator – a precise adhesive application machine

On or off roll slot applicators are designed to deliver precise and continuous adhesive coatings. They provide accurate thickness control and include a system that prevents premature curing of the adhesive. Slot applicators operate at high speeds allowing for 4000 to 5000 cycles per minute.

Wheel and roll coating adhesive application systems

When applying adhesives by wheel or roll coating, several pattern options are available. The patterns can be customized to meet the production needs. This allows for applying adhesive from the top, bottom or side depending on the needs of the product and process. The only downside of wheel and roll coating is that the equipment will need time consuming cleaning if adhesive cures on it.

Dipping in a glue application machine

When low viscosity adhesives are desired to be applied in thick layers, dipping is a suitable method. As the name implies, the part is dipped into the adhesive. This enables adhesive application on parts with difficult shapes and hard to reach corners.

Transfer printing with the right adhesive application equipment

Transfer printing refers to a form of roll coating where a pattern pad is pressed against a pad or run across a roller to pick up adhesive. Then the pad is used to print the adhesive pattern onto a part or substrate. Most often rollers are used, however, flat plates are also suitable. Transfer printing is used for applying a very thin layer of adhesive in an accurate manner. Envelope flaps and windows can be given an adhesive layer through transfer printing.

Brush and trowel – the oldest of adhesive application methods

Using a brush or trowel to spread adhesive to a substrate is the very basic adhesive application method. The success of the application is dependent on the product quality, equipment quality, and most importantly, the skills of the operator. The advantage of brush and trowel applications is that it enables adhesive application also to uneven surfaces. However, the layer thickness and amount of adhesive applied are more difficult to control and may result in unexpected costs or adhesive system failure, in the worst case. One should also keep in mind that only a limited number of adhesives can be applied using brush or trowel.

Curtain coating for good coverage

Curtain coating refers to an adhesive adhesive application method which involves a so-called waterfall of adhesive – the curtain. The part is pressed through the curtain which results in a layer of adhesives sticking to the surface. The liquid that does not land on the part is collected and pumped back to the system to keep the waterfall running. The thickness of the adhesive layer is determined by the viscosity of the material and the speed at which the part passes through the curtain. Curtain coating is most suitable when a large area is wished to be covered in heavy adhesive.

The major advantage of curtain coating is that it results in a uniform adhesive layer and guarantees the same result for the parts to come. Furthermore, curtain coating is an automated process, which reduces labor costs and improves process efficiency. However, the equipment is generally more expensive than those required by other adhesive application methods. Also the limited number of suitable adhesives can be seen as a disadvantage.

Applying adhesives as a solid film

In recent years, applying adhesive as a solid film has become an extremely popular method. The adhesive is in the form of a thin film and it is deposited to the substrate using a special adhesive applicator machine. Most films use pressure sensitive adhesives, but also heat activated adhesive films are available. Generally adhesive films exist as two types: unsupported and supported film. The latter use a carrier sheet which is removed once one side of the film has been deposited to the surface. Adhesive films are especially popular in the packaging industry.

Which of the adhesive application methods is the best for your process?

Many factors affect the choice of adhesive application method. These include the type of adhesive, nature of product, substrate requirements and process design. Also financial factors play a role in the decision making process: how much does the equipment cost? Is frequent maintenance needed? What about cleaning? We have the answers to all these questions and more. Contact us in case you are looking for the best adhesive application method for your process and product.

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