According to Markets and Markets, the global hot melt adhesives market is expected to be worth $9.64 billion by 2020 due to their versatility in a range of markets. Before choosing a hot melt adhesive for your processes, take closer look at the types of application methods and variables to consider。

1. Extrusion

Slot Extrusion

This type of extrusion is used for applications that need a wide bonding area. Typically, this method fits tape and label application needs.

Bead Extrusion

Bead extrusion pumps the adhesive through a nozzle and forms a bead-shaped adhesive amount onto a substrate. This type of method works well for rigid packaging applications, which don’t need a wide surface coverage area for case and carton sealing.

2. Spray

The spray application method is similar to bead extrusion; a nozzle is used to push the adhesive out. However, it also uses a stream of air that creates a swirled pattern of the adhesive on a substrate.

This method is beneficial for temperature sensitive substrates, as the air helps cool the adhesive prior reaching the substrate’s surface. Additionally, it is used for applications that need a wide bonding area but don’t need much adhesive, such as in nonwovens or assembly.

3. Roll Coat

The roll coat method is used when to bonding large panels together. The adhesive is metered by the gap between rolls onto the primary substrate. It moves down a conveyor where a second panel is placed atop the first panel, and then nipped together. Typically, this adhesive application method is used for truck and RV applications as well as garage door panels.