A Guide To Glue Guns and Hot Melt Adhesives
Glue guns are available in low temperature and high temperature hot-melt versions. Low temperature glue guns heat up to about 120º C and are more applicable where a high temperature is not wanted. High-temperature glue guns} heat up to around 195°C and result in a stronger bond. Also available are dual glue guns which include a switch so that both low and high temperatures can be utilised for different purposes.
For industrial applications, there are a wide range of heavy duty industrial glue guns available which are designed to optimise production efficiency. These units range from high output pneumatic glue guns to variable temperature units.
Glue sticks are on the market in various sizes for different varieties and sizes of glue guns. The commonest size has a diameter of 11mm. Glue sticks are also available in various lengths, from about 10cm upwards. However, most glue guns will accommodate glue sticks of any length. Hot melt and low temperature glue sticks are available for the different types of glue gun. Hot melt adhesives do not contain any solvents or water. They set when they fall in temperature and this means that they can set quickly.
For industrial needs, different types of glue sticks are available for specialist uses. The most common diameters are 12 and 43mm. For domestic use, there are only a few types of glue sticks that are available. Glue sticks have different open times, which is the duration needed to form a bond. This varies from a few seconds to several minutes.
Glue guns should be switched on a few minutes before being used so that the heating element and glue stick can warm up. As the glue stick gets hot it melts and then it can be used to bond different materials together. Care should be taken when using hot glue guns as hot glue can be dangerous.