Adhesives play a vital role in many industries by bonding materials effectively and permanently. Hence, the hot melt applicator is a key tool for precise adhesive dispensing. This blog post aims to introduce the types, functions and applications of applicators to give you an overview of these tools. Let's get started!

Hot melt applicators are tools used to apply various adhesives to various surfaces smoothly. They are ideal for industrial environments where pressure and accurate dispensing are key. Dispensing guns are used by many industries as they allow accurate dispensing and efficient work.

Types of applicators

Manual applicators

Manual applicators are popular for smaller jobs. They are simple in design, delivering the adhesive to the surface via a manually operated lever. They are quick and easy to use, especially where mobility and flexibility are required.

They have the advantage of being available at a low cost and do not require an external power source. In addition, their ergonomic design makes them comfortable to use. However, they have the disadvantage that the application of pressure is limited, which can be tiring for the worker when applying large quantities of adhesive.

Pneumatic applicators

Pneumatic applicators operate with air pressure, which allows continuous and even dispensing. They are ideal for industrial environments where high volumes of work and precise dispensing are required.

Pneumatic applicators have the advantage of providing a high-pressure force so that even denser adhesives can be applied to the surface. An example of such a dispenser is the 3M 8012 pneumatic applicator.

Hot melt applicators

These applicators use hot melt adhesives which are heated and dispensed in a liquid state. The 3M Hot Melt EC, 3M Hot Melt PG II, 3M Hot Melt PG LT Quadrack and Low Melt TC Quadrack are adapted to different applications and temperature requirements.

They have the advantage of fast curing and strong adhesion, making them ideal for fast work. They have a variety of nozzles that allow precise dispensing of the adhesive. The disadvantage is that the high temperature of the hot melt adhesives can be potentially dangerous for the operator, so appropriate protective equipment must be used.

Electronic dispensing guns

Electronic dispensing guns use advanced technology to dispense adhesive. These devices can be precisely controlled, which is an advantage in complex industrial applications. Different manufacturers' specifications allow the selection of the appropriate type.

Technological details include adjustable temperature control and automatic pressure control, which allows for uniform adhesive dispensing.

The advantages are high precision and minimal waste. Disadvantages are that they are available at a higher price and may require more maintenance than mechanical devices.

Applications and Industries

Printing and paper industry

Applicators are a key tool for the printing and paper industry, providing high accuracy and uniform adhesive application. Precise glueing is essential in this industry, especially when it comes to ensuring a perfect bond between thin papers and fine materials. Applicators make the glueing process quick and easy, greatly increasing productivity and reducing the possibility of errors.

Hot melt guns are most used in the printing and paper industry. These guns heat the adhesive quickly and allow for immediate use, which is particularly important in high-volume production processes.

Packaging industry

Efficiency and precision are at the forefront of the packaging industry's requirements. Uniform and accurate glueing minimises waste and ensures that packages are securely sealed.

Hot melt applicators are particularly popular in this industry, ensuring continuous and reliable adhesive application.

In addition, pneumatic dispensing guns are also common, as they can apply adhesives at higher speeds and with less manpower.

Automotive industry

Bonding processes in the automotive industry are complex and often require high-strength bonds. Applicators play a key role here too, particularly in the assembly of body panels and interior accessories. The adhesives used require high heat and pressure resistance, so applicators also need to be robust and reliable.

Pneumatic applicators are often used in this industry, especially when glueing structural components such as windscreens. Such applicators provide high-precision adhesive application, which is of paramount importance in maintaining the safety of vehicles.

Electronics industry

In electronics manufacturing, applicators must meet specific requirements. The joining of tiny, precise components requires extreme care and precision. The adhesives used here stand out not only for their bonding strength but also for their electrical insulation properties.

Furniture manufacturing and ship maintenance

In furniture manufacturing and ship maintenance, the use of applicators makes it easier to join different materials such as wood, metal and plastic. Bonding with applicators results in fast and secure bonding, which increases the efficiency of the manufacturing process and the quality of the products.

Find the right tools at Flanker! We offer a wide range of adhesive applicators for all your needs!

As well as being a technical step for carpenters and upholsterers, furniture glueing is one of the cornerstones of creating quality furniture. Using the right furniture glue can ensure that the various wood elements form a durable and aesthetic bond, making furniture long-lasting and reliable. A durable adhesive bond not only contributes to the structural integrity of the furniture but also significantly increases its stability. What furniture adhesives are available and what do you need to know about the process? In our current article, we answer these questions!

Types of furniture adhesives

Traditional wood adhesives

One of the most popular traditional wood furniture glues is PVA, a polyvinyl acetate-based glue. This adhesive is easy to use, dries quickly and provides an excellent bond between wood materials. It is popular because it dries translucently, giving the furniture an aesthetic appearance.

Modern adhesives

Advanced technologies have led to the emergence of several modern adhesives. Polyurethane adhesives provide a strong, flexible bond and are well-suited for use where furniture is subjected to high stress. Epoxy adhesives are known to be strong and are particularly popular in furniture manufacture because of their heat resistance. Not to be left out are silicone-based adhesives, which have excellent water resistance and flexibility. All these modern options are available in a variety of colours, making them easy to match the aesthetics of any furniture.

Flexible adhesives perform excellently on furniture where movement or vibration is expected, while structural adhesives provide outstanding strength and durability. Flow adhesives, especially those applied using a dispensing gun, are widely used in woodworking and industrial furniture manufacturing because of their fast and efficient bonding. These flexible adhesives are available in a variety of colours, such as white, transparent, brown, and gold-yellow, so that everyone can find what they need.

Bonding techniques and tools

Furniture glueing is based on proper preparation and surface treatment. The adhesive can only create a durable and strong bond if the surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared. Start by cleaning the surface from dust and dirt. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the surface and, if necessary, use a slightly damp cloth to remove stubborn dirt. It is important to ensure that the surface is completely dry before moving on to the next stage.

The use of primers and drying agents is also essential when glueing furniture. Primers help improve the bond between the adhesive and the surface, while drying agents speed up the process, saving time. Before applying the primer, make sure the surface is even and smooth, as porous or rough surfaces will impair the quality of the bond. Once the primer has dried, the adhesive will adhere much better to the surface.

Application of adhesives

When applying glue, you can use different methods, depending on whether you can work with manual methods or whether you need special tools. Manual application methods are easier and are particularly useful when working on smaller projects or details. We usually use a brush or spatula to spread the adhesive evenly over the surface.

However, if you are glueing larger surfaces or doing precision work, you may want to use glue applicators or dispensing guns. These tools help to apply an even layer of glue and minimise waste. Adhesive sticks and tubes are also handy, especially if you need to apply glue in open and hard-to-reach areas.

Drying and curing processes

The efficiency of the drying and curing process has a major impact on the effectiveness of furniture glueing. Drying time and conditions may vary depending on the type of adhesive. It is important to adhere to the drying time recommended by the manufacturer and to ensure proper environmental conditions.

Avoid heat or direct sunlight during the drying process, as these can dry the adhesive more quickly, resulting in a weaker bond. Air circulation is also very important: ventilation promotes uniform drying and adhesive strengthening.

The use of accelerators can be beneficial when time is short. These special materials speed up the drying time of the adhesive and provide an instant strong bond. However, they should be used with caution as overuse can reduce the quality and durability of the bond.

Using the right techniques and tools will ensure that your furniture glue is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and strong. And if you need top-quality materials, head to our webcatalogue where you'll find everything you need for furniture glueing!

Polishing is a special process that uses different tools and materials to make the surface smooth. The aim is to remove scratches and other surface defects to restore the material's shine and aesthetics. Polishing not only improves the appearance but also increases the durability and lifetime of the surface. What is the polishing process and what tools should be used during the process? Read on to find out in our article!

What do you need for polishing?

Polishing is a multi-step process that requires special tools. Let's look at what you need to get great results!

Polishing machines

The right polishing machine is essential to make the polishing process smooth and efficient. A good-quality polisher will work faster and more evenly, reducing fatigue and increasing work efficiency. You can choose a corded or battery-powered machine, depending on the mobility you need for your work. It is important to pay attention to the speed control of the machine, as different surfaces and materials require different speeds.

Manual tools

Hand tools such as glass polishers and various polishing sponges also play an important role in polishing. They facilitate more precise work, especially in hard-to-reach areas or on smaller surfaces.

Sponges and scarves

The quality of the sponges and cloths used during polishing has a significant influence on the result. Different sponges are suitable for different surfaces and polishing processes. Microfibre cloths are essential for cleaning after polishing. Their fine fibres bind dirt and dust without scratching.

Masks and gloves

For safety reasons, the use of masks and gloves is also recommended. Inhaling polishing compound dust and microparticles can be hazardous to health, so wearing a suitable filter mask is important. And gloves protect your hands from chemicals and physical injury, ensuring a comfortable and safe working environment.

Polishing materials

Polishing pastes and creams are available in different particle sizes, so you can find the right material for every polishing stage. Coarse pastes remove larger scratches and imperfections first, followed by finer creams to perfect the finish. Glass polishing pastes, for example, are specifically designed to polish glass surfaces, while specific metal polishing creams are available for metallic surfaces.

The polishing process depends not only on the right technique but also on a careful choice of tools and materials. By using good quality tools and materials, the process will not only be more efficient, but the result will be more impressive. Here's how polishing works!

The polishing process

Thorough preparation is an essential part of the polishing process. Before you start polishing, it is important to get rid of anything that could contaminate or hinder the process. To do this, we can use appropriate cleaning agents and degreasers to guarantee a clean work surface. Thorough cleaning helps to ensure that the polishing material is evenly distributed over the surface and that the result is the best possible.

The first step in basic polishing is rough polishing. At this stage, larger polishing materials and tools are used to help remove primary materials quickly. This prepares the surface for finer polishing and ensures that the base is tidy. With coarse polishing, the aim is to remove stubborn stains and scratches, so the surface already looks much smoother and more even.

Fine polishing is the more difficult part, using finer-grained materials. In this step, the aim is perfection - to make the surface flawless and shiny. Fine polishing uses less pressure and slower, more even movements. This makes the surface mirror-smooth and brings out every detail.

After polishing, surface protection is important as part of the after-treatment. This involves the application of various protective coatings to protect the surface from external influences such as dirt, damage and oxidation. The right protective coating will give a long-lasting shine and prolong the polishing effect.

Periodic maintenance and regular cleaning will help keep the surface in perfect condition. To do this, it is recommended to use special cleaning agents and maintenance products that are gentle on the surface but effective in removing dirt. Proper maintenance will prolong the life of the polish and ensure that the surface always remains shiny.

If it's polishing, it's Flanker! In our webcatalogue, you'll find everything you need for a perfect and efficient job!

A clean and strip cut disc is a special tool designed for cleaning, smoothing and sanding surfaces of different materials. The discs have a specially designed abrasive surface that allows them to effectively remove dirt without scratching or leaving other surface defects. Selecting and using the right cleaning disc is key to increasing the efficiency of your workflow. These tools not only make cleaning faster and easier but also significantly reduce the risk of material damage.

Using the clean and strip cut disc

The correct use of cleaning discs not only determines the quality of the result but also our safety. First, always read the manufacturer's instructions that come with the disc. When you start working with the disc, make sure that the disc is properly secured, as a loose disc will not only make your work worse but also pose an accident risk.

It is important to choose the right size and grain size disc for the job. For example, if you want to remove paint, a fine-grained disc may be ideal, while for rust or welds, you will need a coarser-grained disc.

Safety considerations

Safety is a primary concern when using clean and strip cut discs. Wear safety goggles and gloves to avoid injury. Also, if dust or other harmful substances may be released during the work, use a respirator.

Make sure that your work area is well-ventilated and that there are no flammable materials nearby! Before turning on the power, check that the tool is stable and does not move, which is particularly important when the disc is working at high speeds.

Maintenance of the clean and strip cut disc

Maintenance of the cleaning discs is essential for long life and efficient operation. Clean the discs regularly to remove dust and other dirt. This can be done using compressed air or a soft brush. Avoid cleaning with hard objects, as these can damage the surface and grains of the disc.

Cleaning discs need to be replaced when they no longer provide the desired performance. If the disc is visibly worn, fragmented or does not leave a good mark on the workpiece, it is time to replace it.

With frequent use, the cleaning discs' grains will gradually wear away, so over time they will no longer be able to effectively remove paint, rust or other contaminants. Regular inspection and replacement will ensure that we always get the job done to optimum quality.

Common mistakes when using a clean and strip cut disc

Wrong choice of disc

The wrong choice of clean and strip cut disc can cause many problems for the user. If you are working on the bodywork of a car and you have chosen the wrong type of disc, it can easily damage the paint or metal surface, leading to additional repair costs. In the woodworking industry, a similar mistake can cause a rough or uneven surface or cracks in the wood, which can reduce the quality of the final product.

One of the most important steps in selecting the right reel is to know exactly what the application is and what type of material it is to be used for. It is worth seeking professional advice if necessary. Furthermore, it is important to always buy reels from a reliable source that are of the right quality and have been tested.

Improper storage of discs

Improper storage of discs can shorten their life and negatively affect their performance. For example, if they are stored in a humid or damp environment, they can quickly rust or mould, which can reduce their overall efficiency. Temperature fluctuations can also be detrimental, as the discs can become deformed or damaged.

To preserve the quality of the discs, they should be stored in a dry and cool place. It is advisable to avoid direct sunlight and to use containers that protect the discs from mechanical damage. It is important not to touch the reels closely and always keep them in their original packaging if possible.

Improper use

Improper use of cleaning discs can be dangerous not only to the workpiece but also to the user. If the disc is used with too much pressure, it is easy to damage the workpiece, and the disc can be damaged. An inappropriate speed can also be harmful, as too high a speed can lead to rapid wear, overheating or even breakage.

First, it is important to always use the reels under the conditions recommended by the manufacturer. Pay particular attention to the speed and pressure used. Always wear appropriate protective equipment such as goggles and gloves. If a fault should occur, stop work immediately and check the condition of the discs, replacing them if necessary. Ultimately, thorough preparation and following the rules will help avoid mistakes and ensure a longer life for your cleaning discs.

Looking for the right tools and materials? We're waiting for you in Flanker's webcatalogue! Look around and find what you need to work efficiently and accurately!