A Buyers Guide To Glue Guns and Hot Melt Adhesives

Glue guns can be bought in low temperature and high temperature hot-melt versions. Low temperature glue guns heat up to about 120º C and are more suitable where a high temperature is undesirable. High-temperature glue guns} heat up to approximately 195°C and give 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 comprehensive 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 buyable in several different diameters 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, the majority of 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 bond when they fall in temperature and this means that they can set quickly.

For industrial applications, different types of glue sticks are available for specialist uses. The commonest 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 turned on a few minutes before being used so that the heating element and glue stick can warm up. As the glue stick increases in temperature it melts and then it can be used to bond various materials together. Care should be taken when using hot glue guns as hot glue can be dangerous.