If your business relies on hot melt glue systems, for example, to assemble product packaging, you need reliable equipment that delivers consistent, reliable service with few periods of inconvenient downtime. When glue guns become blocked, an entire production line can grind to a halt, causing costly delays while the problem is remedied.
Rather than only acting when an adhesive blockage occurs, it makes sense to take preventative measures to keep your hot melt system in optimum operating condition. Simple steps take only minimal time, whereas allowing a serious blockage to develop makes prolonged downtime more likely.
Clean The Glue Gun Nozzle Regularly
Understanding how to clean your glue gun is the starting point for thorough in-house hot melt maintenance. Ensuring the nozzle is free from blockages is the most important step you can take, as this will extend the lifespan of the glue gun. Not only will downtime become less common, but you’ll save money by avoiding premature replacement of the equipment.
If you’re wondering how to clean your hot glue gun, follow these simple steps:
- Remove the nozzle when the gun is still warm to avoid damaging the thread. (You should wear gloves to protect yourself.)
- Wipe any excess glue from around the nozzle after each work session, to prevent it hardening and accumulating, before the applicator cools completely.
- If glue hardens inside the nozzle, clean it out using a pin or similar narrow, sharp tool. Never restart the hot melt system until the accumulation is removed.
Prepare The Glue Guns Properly
Preventing adhesive blockages isn’t just about routine cleaning after each work session. Thorough preparation is important to prevent problems from occurring later, so ensure that you:
- Insert the glue stick into the glue gun before plugging in the equipment.
- Ensure you use the right glue with your hot melt system: always use the manufacturer’s recommended glue and don’t try to save money by sourcing a cheaper alternative.
- Never attempt to remove a partially melted glue stick from the back of the gun, or damage may occur.
Invest In A Glue Gun That Meets Your Needs
Choosing an inappropriate glue gun can mean it’s overworked and simply isn’t designed to meet your production needs, leading to blockages and breakdowns. When deciding which hot melt system to invest in, consider the type of glue you need to use in production, the dispensing rate you need to achieve, and the nature of your production.
Working with an expert supplier, such as The Adhesive Laundry, can increase the likelihood that you’ll purchase the high-quality equipment that meets the needs of your production line, guaranteeing efficient and productive workflow.
Don’t Neglect Repairs
Maintenance and repairs to your hot melt glue system will be required from time-to-time, so it’s vital these are carried out as soon as is necessary and not deferred for long.
A programme of preventive maintenance, cleaning, and rebuilding will ensure that accumulations of glue are removed before they become problematic, while components that are showing early signs of wear are replaced in a timely manner. By taking control of your maintenance schedule, you can head off the frustrating problems that are likely to cause downtime on your production line.
For Outstanding Glue Gun Cleaning, Get In Touch With The Adhesive Laundry
At The Adhesive Laundry, we offer a competitive nozzle and glue gun cleaning service for all makes and models. To find out more, get in touch on 01480 775823, or request a call back via our online messaging page.
