How to apply packaging hot melt adhesive?

The packaging hot melt adhesive is heated to become liquid. Apply the liquid to the initial surface by extruding, spraying, or rolling the specified amount, and then expose it to a brief “open time” to achieve optimal temperature and “humidity” for bonding to the initial surface. After the designated opening time, the two surfaces come into contact with each other. At this point, the adhesive penetrates the second surface and cools, returning to a stable solid state and bonding the two together. In some cases, compression may be necessary to promote optimal adhesion.

Maintaining appropriate application temperature and opening time is particularly important for strong hot melt bonding. Some ideal temperature guidelines for common industrial applications are:

Packaging hot melt adhesive – For this mainly cardboard and organic substrate market, the sealing of the hot melt shell should reach 350 degrees Celsius, including an opening time of 3 to 4 seconds to achieve the ideal bonding temperature, and maintain an effective range of hot and cold conditions at a wide temperature.

Pressure sensitive and liquid labels – After being attached to relevant labels, the labels achieve optimal adhesion at a temperature of 40 to 50 degrees Celsius, including an ideal residence time of 24 to 48 hours before consumer handling.

Graphic Art Hot Melt Adhesive – Typically, graphic art adhesives are applied at 350 degrees Celsius, have variable opening times, and remain effective between 20 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Suitable for packaging hot melt adhesive substrates

Compared to other types of adhesives, hot melt adhesives are an ideal choice for several different materials or substrates due to their ease of application, flexibility, and relatively low melting temperature. Most hot melt adhesives can be safely used for the following substrates:

Paper

Corrugated cardboard

Wood

Fabric

Plastic

Metal

Glass

However, although hot melt adhesive materials are safe for these substrates, it is necessary to choose the correct heating device in order to apply it at a safe temperature. Numerous low-temperature glue guns can apply hot melt glue to finer materials, while more durable substrates can withstand hot melt temperatures up to 400 degrees.

Industrial application of packaging hot melt adhesive

There are many types of hot melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive labels, and other hot melt formulas, and their potential applications are also diverse. Considering the above characteristics and temperature range, these are some of the main industries that benefit from using hot melt adhesives today:

Automotive industry – Hot melt adhesive is used for assembling decorative parts and car seats and accessories.

Food and beverage industry – Due to their ability to withstand extreme temperatures and humidity, hot melt adhesives and pressure-sensitive labels are highly suitable for applications in the food and beverage industry. Woodworking and Furniture – Manufacturers use hot melt adhesive in paneling, cabinet, and furniture assembly applications.

Binding – Major book manufacturers and independent binders use hot melt adhesives to bind the final product.

Packaging – Regardless of the industry, hot melt adhesives are very suitable for sealing corrugated cardboard boxes and cartons, sealing packaging, stabilizing pallets, etc.