Adhesive Application subsystem
Table of Contents
The application subsystem defines the results that can be expected from the entire dispensing system. Depending on the needs of the customer, it comprises a suitable applicator with a specific nozzle, which defines the application pattern. The applicator chosen may be handheld or automated. The nozzle is selected according to the pattern required in the production process.
Applicators
Handheld applicators
These are used in manual dispensing systems and are controlled by an operator pressing the trigger.
The industry offers a wide range of handheld applicators for many different applications depending on the needs of the customer. The main benefits are high accessibility and flexibility in the dispensing process. If required they can be heated and even used for two-component applications. A possible disadvantage is the operator dependency which may lead to lower accuracy and precision than an automated solution.
Automated Applicators
Used in automated dispensing systems, applicators of this type are controlled by the dispensing system controller which maintains the preset parameters for the application pattern.
There is a wide range of applicators available for use in automated processes; they are optimized for different flows and applications. What they normally have in common is a robust design for highest reliability and productivity
Nozzles and their applications
Application process
Material extrusion (low energetic)
- Material is pressed out of a nozzle positioned close to the component
- Low energy
Material streaming (high energetic)
- Material is applied to the component from a distance using high pressure
- High energy
Most common applications
| Low energetic | High energetic |
| Round bead application | Stitch bead application |
| Shaped bead application | Swirl application |
| Stitch bead application | Flat stream application |
| Airless application |
Application technologies
- Round bead application
- Shaped bead application
- Stitch bead application
- Swirl application
- Flat stream application
- Airless application
Round bead application
Nozzle
Application pattern
Properties
- Bead diameter can be influenced
- Pressure speed regulated
Application
- Housing/ car body sealing
- Structural and constructive adhesive bonding
Properties
- Bead diameter can be influenced
- Pressure speed regulated
Adhesives
- Bead diameter 1 mm – 8 mm
- Cold/ hot (up to 160ºC)
- Usual robot speed range (automated): 200 ~ 500 mm/s
Shaped bead application
Nozzle
Application
Properties
- Defined bead geometry
Application
- Screen glazing
Adhesives
- PU (Polyurethane)
Processing
- Bead thickness: up to 2 mm
- Bead width: up to 200 mm, depending on application
- Usual robot speed range (automated): 300 mm/s
Stitch bead application
Nozzle
Application
Properties
- Consistent distances between beads (Can be influenced via controller)
- Jet stream application
Application
- Structural & constructive adhesive bonding, usually used between welding spots
- Stiffness bonding
Adhesives
- 1K and 2K Adhesives
- EP – Epoxy Adhesives
Processing
- Bead thickness: 0.2 mm ~ 6 mm
- Temperature max. 60ºC
- Usual robot speed range (automated): 200 ~ 500 mm/s
Swirl application: electric or air*
Nozzle
Application
Properties
- Consistent application of material
- Very good material distribution and fast adjusting
- Only limited layer thickness
Application
- Hem flange
- Strength bonding for complex outlines
Adhesives
- 1C Epoxy
- PVC
Processing
- Application width: as requested
- Layer thickness: 3mm
- Usual robot speed range (automated): 200 ~ 600 mm/s
* The main difference between both swirl applications is that the material is swirled either electrically or with air. The electrically swirled application is usually chosen according to the material used, as the bead could get broken when it comes into contact with a “cold” airstream.
Flat stream application
Nozzle
Application
Properties
- Variable bead width, can be changed during application
- Suitable for large quantities of material
Application
- Seam sealing
- Application of anti-flutter material (SAM)
- Under Body Protection (UBS)
Adhesives
- PVC
- Rubber based materials
- Water-based acrylates
Processing
- Bead thickness: up to 2 mm
- Bead width: up to 200 mm, depending on application
- Usual robot speed range (automated): 200 ~ 500 mm/s
Airless application
Nozzle
Application
Properties
- Application distance relatively high
- Wide coverage possible
- Uniform distribution even with thinner thickness
- Pressure regulated
Application
- Under Body Protection (UBS)
- Corrosion Protection
Adhesives
- PVC
Processing
- Layer thickness: up to 0.4 mm (UBS)
- Bead width: 350 mm
- Usual robot speed range (automated): 300 ~ 600 mm/s
1K & 2K Application
One-component applications
When we talk about dispensing a material without any specification, we usually mean a one-component application, often called a “1C” application. This is usually cured by air, heat or humidity. A one-component application is used when the material curing time matches the rate of productivity.
Two-component applications
For high productivity processes a two-component application, referred to as a “2C” application, is often required. A second component is mixed with the main component to achieve a faster curing time, and the end-product is thus bonded by the end of its production. The mixture of the two components usually occurs statically or dynamically. This kind of application can still be influenced by temperature variations.
Static and dynamic mixers
To achieve the ideal mixing ratio in a “2K” application the material can be mixed by a static or a dynamic mixer, depending on the accuracy and precision required. If the viscosities of the components in a 2K material are low or very different, static mixing may not be optimal. By using 2K dynamic mixing technology the desired 2K properties are ensured. To achieve the desired result, elements and parameters must be chosen according to material and application.
For more information, please contact us:
Hotline: (+84) 969 469 089
Email: info@gluditec.com