Comparing Solvent-Based Spray Adhesives and Hot Melt Spray Systems
The solvent-based spray and hot melt spray provide fast bonding on wide surfaces, but the bond creation mechanisms are different. The solvent-based product is dry as far as the solvent gets away; hot melt spray is applied in the case of melt and secured by cooling. This difference changes ventilation, open time, equipment and cycle design.
Application and open time
Solvent-based spray can offer long working time and double-sided contact method on some surfaces; the degree of drying can depend on operator decision. Hot melt spray can provide for a long time with appropriate formulation, but it is affected by thermal cooling surface and ambient temperature. The actual assembly time should be measured in two systems.
Air quality and safety
VOC, odor, ventilation, flameability and empty packaging management in the solvented system stand out. Hot melt solvent does not require evaporation; it is the risk of hot aplicator and melt adhesive. The ‘More secure’ decision should be given to the product SDS and facility risk assessment.
Pattern, grammar and quality
The nozzle distance in both systems affects pass speed and overlapping grammage. Spray performance in pressure boxes can vary by packaging pressure; air, temperature and viscosity together in hot melt equipment. In addition to the bond force, overspray should be recorded on the surface, the smell and cleaning time.
Total process cost
With the low initial investment of the solvent box, high consumables and waste cost; hot melt equipment investment can be offset by more controlled consumption and refillable system. Ventilation, energy, maintenance, operator duration, empty packaging, reprocessing and postures should be included in the account. The decision should be based on the representative pilot production.
Application control list
- Measure real assembly and drying/cooling times.
- Compare SDS and facility risk assessment.
- Save Gram/m2, overspray and waste.
- Add cleaning, ventilation and energy load.
- Verify the bond and appearance after aging.
Conclusion
Choice between two spray technologies, not only according to the product price or initial investment; safety, cycle, consumption, waste and bond performance should be done in total.
Manstechnic approach
Manstechnic conducts the transition project in a comparative way with current consumption measuring and hot melt spray pilot.