Hotmelt Finder

Working Temperature
Working Temperature is the ideal temperature range which is advised for the processing of the hotmelt.

remark: The Working Temperature measured at the output point of the applicator (normally the nozzle / spray head) = effective Working Temperature (eWT). However, the applicators show the temperature of the hotmelt inside the melting chamber = the nominal Working Temperature (nWT). Keep in mind, that between both measuring points (eWT and nWT) large temperature differences may exist.

In general the suitability of the hotmelt for an application needs to be tested, and also the optimal temperature adjustment of the applicator under the working condition needs to be checked, too.

Viscosity
Viscosity measured in mPas, describes the resistance of a fluid (hotmelt) which is being deformed. It is the rate for the internal fluid‘s resistance against the flow.
Basic principle: the higher the value [mPas] the “thicker” (less capable of flow), the lower is the value [mPas] the “thinner” (more capable of flow) the hotmelt.

range / definition of values on our internet-sites

low: 500 – 3000 mPas
middle: 3000 – 6000 mPas
high: 6000 – 18000 mPas
extra high: > 18000 mPas

Heat Resistance (SAFT- Shear Adhesion Failure Temperature)
The highest temperature will be identified and stated, until a bond withstands the shear load under defined terms. The temperature is increased gradually until the point the bond fails.

The method doses not indicate the strength of the bond. It shows the Heat Resistance of the tested hotmelt, only.

As a basic principle the higher the Heat Resistance [in °C] the lower the adhesiveness / bonding strength of the hotmelt.

Open Time
Open Time is defined as the period between the hotmelt is applied and the latest moment when the chosen substrates still can be connected. Solely within this time period changes can be made without any visible marks after the drying process of the hotmelt.
The Open Time depends basically on the temperature and the heat conductivity of the substrates, the surrounding temperature and conditions as well as the method of application (bead/spray).

range / definition of values on our internet-sites:

short: 1 – 10 Sekunden
middle: 10 – 30 Sekunden
long: 30 – 90 Sekunden
extra long: > 90 Sekunden

Setting Time
Setting Time is defined as the time period between the connection of the substrates and the time point when hotmelt bond will be able to be loaded.

Basically the Setting Time depends on the temperature and the heat conductivity of the substrates, the surrounding temperature and conditions as well as the kind of application (bead/spray).

range / definition of values on our internet-sites:

short: 1 – 10 Sekunden
middle: 10 – 30 Sekunden
long: 30 – 90 Sekunden
extra long: > 90 Sekunden

FDA 175 105 and FDA 175 125 / compliance of the hotmelt requirements in combination of food.
In the USA the regulations of FDA are commandments for the usage of hotmelt in combination of food.

A large quantity of our products complies with the requirements of the FDA / Food and Drug Administration, Department of Health and Human Services, CFR Code of Federal Regulations, chapter 175 105 hotmelt and 175 125 adhesion hotmelt for an indirect use / packaging of food.

Our technical data sheets show the suitability of the hotmelt to meet the FDA regulations.

Softening Point according to EN1427 (DIN 52011) Ring and Ball Method
The Softening Point is defined as temperature or range of temperature, when the state of matter changes from solid to flowing. At the beginning of the flow of the hotmelt, an abrupt drop in strength appears. Also the value of the Softening Point indicates the performance of the hotmelt at high temperatures.