Hot melt adhesives, commonly referred to as hot glues, are thermoplastic polymers that melt at a high temperature and then revert to their solid form as they cool, creating very strong bonds.
The greatest strength of this type of adhesive is its versatility. The base polymer used in its production can be modified to customize its properties for use on a wide variety of materials for dozens of industrial applications.
Here are some of the most common uses of hot melt adhesives.
Packaging
Since hot melt adhesives can withstand extreme temperatures, they are widely used in the packaging industry. Their use ensures that containers remain properly sealed regardless of the conditions they are subjected to in transit.
Food packaging
Most hot melt adhesives are made without volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxic chemicals that can release harmful fumes and compromise food quality. The VOC-free composition of hot melt adhesives makes them ideal for food packaging applications. There are even adhesives such as Thermobond 7107 that are designed specifically for use in frozen food packaging.
Labels
Due to its ability to adhere to a wide range of materials, hot melt glue is often used to apply labels to various types of products and packaging. Its flexibility makes it effective even on round and oddly-shaped surfaces.
Hygiene products
The flexibility and non-toxic nature of hot melt adhesives also makes them ideal for hygiene products such as baby diapers, adult incontinence products and sanitary napkins. Their strong adhesion ensures that the hygiene product stays securely in place while remaining flexible enough to prevent the product from restricting movement. They are also gentle on sensitive skin.
Mattresses
Today, mattress composition is more complex than ever, with customers favouring multiple layers of gel and foam for increased comfort. All of these components need to be assembled and glued together.
Hot melt adhesives make mattress manufacturing quicker and easier. They cure rapidly as they cool to room temperature, meaning that less time is required to add each component and the mattresses can be packaged shortly after assembly. They are also cheaper than many other types of adhesives, and less of the product is required to achieve a strong bond. Finally, they are non-flammable as well as being eco-friendly and non-toxic, making them safer for manufacturers and consumers alike.
Air filters
Hot melt glue is widely used to manufacture air filters for vehicles and buildings because of its resistance to high and low temperatures and its fast curing speed. An adhesive like Thermobond JPS70154 is perfect for manufacturing filters and other interior automotive components, and is available in several different formats for convenience.
Construction
Hot melt adhesives have a wide range of applications in the construction industry. They are particularly useful for bonding different types of floor coverings and carpets, as they provide a much more aesthetically-pleasing appearance than nails and staples. Their quick curing speed also makes them suitable for installing ceramic tiles on vertical surfaces.
For top-quality adhesives, stick with Adfast!
The properties of hot melt glue make it one of the most versatile types of adhesives. The uses listed above are just a few of its many possible industrial applications.
If you’re in need of hot melt adhesives, look no further than Adfast. We are leading providers of first-rate adhesives, sealants and insulating foam with locations across North America. Contact us today to obtain your professional-quality adhesive or discuss your needs with one of our experts!
