How to Choose the Correct Size Hot Melt Glue Stick

Hot melt glue sticks are a popular adhesive solution for a wide range of applications. They are easy to use and provide a strong bond on various materials. Hot melt glue sticks come in different sizes and formulations, making it essential to select the right size glue stick for your hot melt gun. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the correct size hot melt glue stick for your application.

 

Importance of Choosing the Right Size Hot Melt Glue Stick

Choosing the right size hot melt glue stick is crucial for the performance of the adhesive. Using the wrong size glue stick can result in incomplete bonding or the glue not flowing correctly, leading to a weak bond or uneven coverage. Additionally, using the incorrect size glue stick can damage your hot melt gun, reducing its lifespan.

 

Considerations When Choosing Hot Melt Glue Stick Size

To choose the right size hot melt glue stick for your application, consider the following factors:


 

Hot Melt Gun Compatibility

Before purchasing hot melt glue stick, ensure that it is compatible with your hot melt gun. Different hot melt guns have different temperature settings, and using the wrong temperature glue stick can cause adhesive failure or damage to your hot melt gun. Some hot melt guns have adjustable temperature settings, while others have fixed temperature settings. It is essential to check your hot melt gun's specifications before purchasing a glue stick.

 

Application Requirements

The application requirements will determine the size of the hot melt glue stick required. If you need to apply a high volume of adhesive, you will need a larger size glue stick to reduce the frequency of stick replacement. For small applications, a smaller size glue stick will suffice.

 

Material Type

The material you intend to bond also influences the hot melt glue stick size. Some materials, such as plastics, require a specific hot melt glue formulation to provide a strong bond. Using the wrong size or formulation glue stick can result in a weak bond or no bonding at all.

 

Common Hot Melt Glue Stick Sizes

Hot melt glue sticks come in different sizes and formulations, making it crucial to select the right size for your application. Here are some common hot melt glue stick sizes and their respective applications:

 

1/2" or 12mm Glue Sticks

These are the most common hot melt glue stick sizes available on the market. They provide a wide range of formulations and are suitable for most applications. When selecting a 1/2" glue stick, ensure that your hot melt gun and stick temperatures match correctly.

 

5/8" or 15mm Glue Sticks

These glue sticks are suitable for high volume applications, reducing the frequency of stick replacement. There are three types of 5/8" glue sticks: 5/8" x 2" TC glue sticks, 5/8" x 8" Q glue sticks, and 5/8" glue sticks where length doesn't matter.

 

3/4" Glue Sticks

This is the most unusual size hot melt glue stick and is suitable for specific hot melt guns like older model Hysol hot melt guns. They tend to limit your formulation options, and it's essential to confirm compatibility before purchasing.

 

1" x 3" Glue Sticks

This glue stick size is unique to the 3M PG II pneumatic glue gun, a popular industrial hot melt gun. It is essential to buy the correct temperature hot melt for the 3M PG II glue gun.

 

1 3/4" x 1 3/4" or 43mm Glue Sticks

The glue slugs are common for high-output industrial applications. Power Adhesives, Loctite/Hysol, and PAM all have glue guns that can use the 1 3/4" glue slugs. All the glue guns available for this size of glue slug are high output. Typically, we see 1 3/4" glue guns used in product assembly and packaging. There is a wide variety of hot melt formulas that can be shaped into 1 3/4" slugs, making it easier to find the right hot melt for your specific application.

 

How to Choose the Correct Hot Melt Glue Stick Size

When choosing the correct hot melt glue stick size for your application, several factors come into play. Here are some of the essential factors to consider when choosing the right hot melt glue stick size:

 

1. Hot Melt Gun Size

The first and most important factor is the size of your hot melt glue gun. The size of the gun will determine the maximum size of glue stick you can use. Make sure to check the specifications of your hot melt gun to ensure that you are purchasing the correct size glue stick.

2. Application

The second factor to consider is the application. Are you working on a large project that requires a lot of glue? If so, you may want to consider using a larger glue stick, such as a 5/8" or 3/4" stick. On the other hand, if you are working on a smaller project, a 1/2" or even a 1/4" glue stick may be sufficient.

3. Temperature

Another important factor to consider is the temperature of your hot melt gun. If you are using a high-temperature gun, you must use a high-temperature glue stick. If you are using a low-temperature gun, you must use a low-temperature glue stick. Using the wrong temperature glue stick can result in poor bonding and can damage your hot melt gun.

4. Material

Finally, consider the material you will be bonding. Some materials require a specific type of hot melt glue stick to ensure a strong bond. For example, if you are bonding metal, you may need a hot melt glue stick specifically designed for metal bonding.

 

Choosing the Correct Size

Now that you understand the factors to consider when choosing the correct size hot melt glue stick, let's go through the steps to determine the correct size for your specific application:

1. Check the specifications of your hot melt gun to determine the maximum size glue stick it can use.

2. Consider the size of your project. If it is a larger project, you may want to consider using a larger glue stick.

3. Determine the temperature of your hot melt gun and make sure to choose a glue stick that is compatible with that temperature.

4. Consider the material you will be bonding and choose a glue stick that is designed for that material.

5. Once you have narrowed down your options, choose the size that best fits your needs.

 

Conclusion

Choosing the correct size hot melt glue stick is crucial for ensuring a strong and durable bond. By considering the factors outlined above and following the steps to determine the correct size, you can ensure that you are using the right size hot melt glue stick for your specific application. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact a hot melt glue manufacturer or expert for assistance.

 

Reprinted from Purking Hot Melt Adhesive - “How to Choose the Correct Size Hot Melt Glue Stick”

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