Much of the progress we have made, regardless of the industry we are talking about, is thanks to finding ways to attach or bond things together, whether it’s by fastening with nails, sewing, welding, or gluing. There are many different types of glues, with proof that the Neanderthals were the first to use it. However, since the invention of the superglue, adhesives have come a long way. Nowadays, some of the glues used across many industries have truly incredible properties, and today’s world cannot be imagined without them. We could even go as far as to say that without them, it couldn’t even exist as we know it. One of the most commonly used ones amongst them is the hot melt adhesive.
This type of glue, as the name suggests, works by melting under high temperatures and by fixing things together by drying while cooling down – a process that takes an exceptionally short period of time. The so-called holt melt glue is durable and reliable, which is very important for any industry and for any company or individual. Because a good and reliable glue helps manufacturers make better and longer-lasting products, it helps companies secure their goods better, transport or deliver their products more safely, speed up their production time, eliminate mess, and so on.
There are many things that account for the popularity of this product, not the least of which is the fact that the use of hot melt adhesive can reduce their costs in more than one way, on top of being incredibly easy and convenient. Another reason why this is a great choice of adhesive is that it is environmentally sound. Namely, the user can easily dispose of hot melt glue, and, most importantly, with little or no special precautions.
Types of Hot Melt Glue
These thermoplastic polymer-based adhesives come in a variety of forms, with many different formulas. As a matter of fact, hot glues are one of the most versatile adhesive options, made for a wide range of uses and materials. Some varieties have additional properties for specific applications, for instance, they can provide additional bond strength against UV radiation or moisture. However, despite the variety, and despite the fact that there are several methods of delivery, hot glue is always applied in a molten state, and they all share most of their best qualities.
When it is heated, the hot glue becomes sticky, and in just a few moments it solidifies and creates a strong bond. Because of its high viscosity, it is perfect for bonding uneven surfaces, filling gaps, and creating seals. Nevertheless, different formulas have different properties. For instance, they may require different times to set. Moreover, different types may work better for different applications and they may bond different materials better.
Uses
Hot melt adhesives can be used on porous and non-porous materials, and they can bond many different materials, such as paper, carton, plastics, wood, fabrics, glass, metal, organic substrates, ceramics, polystyrene foam, etc. Their extremely convenient properties make them popular for a wide range of applications. Hot glues are used for packing, carton-making, bookbinding; they are used in the production of electronic devices for bonding wires and parts; they are used in some segments of construction, such as installing floor and wall tiles, insulation, etc. However, they are also popular amongst everyday people, artists, DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, used in crafting, model building and creating art.
Delivery Method
For packaging, household applications, and other non-heavy-duty applications, the most popular variety are hot glue sticks. They are extremely easy and convenient to use. This type of hot melt glue is delivered by a glue gun, which helps the user easily apply the glue directly to the surface, without making a mess. The glue gun is designed to heat up the stick and melt it, after which it can deliver it to the surface via a nozzle through which the hot glue passes. Glue guns work either by finger pressure or by a trigger mechanism. Their design, along with the favourable properties of the hot melt glue can provide unparalleled precision, as well as safety.
Thanks to the nozzle, as it melts the glue stick, the gun allows the user to apply the glue very accurately – directly on the surface, and on the spot where it needs to be. Another benefit of this method of delivery is that it saves glue, as it will help the user avoid wasting more glue than necessary. The way the gun is designed also helps decrease the risk of injuries and burns significantly.
As soon as the glue melts on the surface it cools down and sets hastily, without the need for drying or curing, and without losing any thickness during setting. If used correctly, and for projects suitable for this type of hot glue, the bond that the hot gun sticks create is very strong and long-lasting. For industrial use, there are hot sticks for glue guns that can provide higher heat resistance, as well as a stronger bond.
