FAQs

What are the applications of hot melt adhesives?

Hot melt adhesives, also known as hot glue, are supplied in various shapes and diameters, designed to be melted in a hot melt adhesive unit. They have a broad range of applications, due to their quick-drying and strong bonding characteristics. Here are some key applications:

Packaging: Hot melt adhesives are extensively used in the packaging industry to seal and secure boxes, cartons, and other packaging materials. They provide a durable bond that withstands shipping and handling.
Bookbinding: In the publishing industry, hot melt adhesives are used in bookbinding due to their quick set time and excellent binding strength. Hot melt adhesives are typically used in the spine and side gluing of books.
Cabinet Assembly: Thermoplastic Hot Melt Adhesives are used to glue the frame of the cabinets together. This technology speed up the assembly time while improving bonds strength even when exposed to cold or hot temperatures.
Plastic Bottles and Can Labeling: Hot melt adhesives play a crucial role in the process of labeling plastic bottles and cans. These adhesives are thermoplastics that are first heated to a liquid state and then applied. Once they cool down, they quickly solidify and form a strong bond. Their fast-setting nature, coupled with durability and strength, makes them ideal for various packaging applications, including plastic bottles and can labeling.

Are hot melt adhesives safe for food and beverage packing?

Yes, some hot melt adhesives are indeed safe for food and beverage packing. Specific products for this industry are formulated to be non-toxic and compliant with food safety regulations. Hot melt adhesives are commonly used in the packaging of food and beverage products because of their ability to provide a strong, durable seal that protects against contamination, leakage, and spoilage.

Food safe hot melt adhesives raw materials are carefully selected and regulated to ensure they pose no risk to food. More so, they do not migrate to the product being packed, ensuring the product's taste, smell or texture is not altered.

For instance, Henkel's TECHNOMELT® SUPRA™ PRO 450 is an example of a food safe adhesive. This product is designed for food and beverage packaging, complying with the FDA regulations in the US, approved under Federal Regulation 21 CFR 175.105.

However, it's important to note that not all hot melt adhesives are created equally. Different manufacturers may use different formulas, and not all of these may be food safe. Therefore, it's crucial to always check with the adhesive manufacturer or supplier to make sure their product is compliant with food safety regulations for your specific application.

In conclusion, while hot melt adhesives can be safe for food and beverage packing, it's always essential to ensure you're using a product specifically designed and certified for this purpose.

Which substrates are compatible with hot melt adhesives?

Hot melt adhesives, also referred to as hot glue, are versatile and can be used across various substrates, making it a favorite in different industries including packaging, woodworking, and manufacturing.

Wood: Hot melt adhesives are commonly used in cabinetry and other woodworking applications. They bond well to wood, providing a strong and durable hold.
Plastics: Different types of plastic, like PVC or PET, are also compatible with hot melt adhesives. This makes them suitable for use in packaging and product assembly operations.
Paper and Corrugated: In the packaging industry, hot melt adhesives are used to seal boxes and cartons because of their excellent bonding ability with coated paper and corrugated.

It's important to note that the type of hot melt adhesive used should be chosen based on the specific materials being bonded and the requirements of the application, as different adhesives have different properties and strengths. Always ensure to check with an expert for the best results.