The Facts on… Hotmelt Glues

Hotmelt glue is a thermoplastic combination of polymers, resins and waxes that cures faster and releases less volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than liquid, solvent-based adhesive. By changing these basic ingredients and their relative proportions, characteristics such as melt heat, open time and bond strength can be adjusted to suit the bonding function and method of application.

Hotmelt gluing machinery applies the molten glue as a spray, with a heated roller or via nozzles, but within the light manufacturing and manual packaging sectors it is most commonly dispensed through a hand-held applicator, often called a glue gun. A trigger action feeds cylindrical sticks of glue into the applicator’s melting chamber and ejects the molten glue from a nozzle in a controlled stream.

More advanced applicators include features that allow the operator to electronically adjust the melt temperature and regulate the amount of glue dispensed with each pull of the trigger. Interchangeable nozzles create different glue line diameters, extend the nozzle to reach recessed areas or apply a band of glue lines across a wider area.

An integral or removable gun stand makes it easier for the operator to pick up and place the gun when working sporadically and avoid damage or injury from the hot glue and nozzle. As the applicator relies on manual pressure to force the glue through, features such as an ergonomically profiled body, extended length trigger and soft grip inserts reduce the discomfort of strain and chafing during extended use.

While the possibilities for individual glue formulations are endless, the four formulations created for Stickfast™ hotmelts are sufficient to cover the requirements of most packaging and light manufacturing industries.