Purchasing Glue Guns and Adhesives

Glue guns are available 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 guns} heat up to about 195°C and give a stronger bond. Also on the market are dual glue guns which include a switch so that both low and high temperatures can be used for different applications.

For industrial purposes, there are a good range of heavy duty industrial glue guns available which are designed and constructed to optimise production efficiency. These units range from high output compressed air glue guns to multi temperature guns.

Glue sticks are available in several different diameters for different types and sizes of glue guns. The most common 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 set when they decrease in temperature and this means that they can set quickly.

For industrial applications, different types of glue sticks are available for specialist uses. The most common 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 a few minutes.

Glue guns should be turned on several minutes before being used so that the heating element and adhesive can warm up. As the glue stick gets hot it melts and then it can be used to glue various materials together. Care should be taken when operating hot glue guns as hot glue can be hazardous.