A
critical component for packaging and dispensing of specialty chemicals.
When bringing a dispensing product line to market, whether
for automotive, aerospace, electronics, construction, telecommunications,
medical, or industrial applications, the packaging system used to administer
the adhesive must offer the right delivery method for the application. In
addition, the material may require special handling to minimize air entrapment,
moisture contamination and packaging incompatibility.
Today’s packaged products include one- and two-component adhesives, sealants,
and resins containing chemistries such as acrylic, anaerobic, conductive,
epoxy, polysulfide, polyurethane, UV-curable, and other polymers.
Innovative packaging companies work closely with their customers to ensure a
seamless transition from bulk containers into small applications. These services
include the following.
- Sourcing specialty chemicals that are suitable for the
application.
- Degassing, nitrogen purging and blending capabilities.
- Providing free samples from supplied materials.
- Warehousing and drop shipments.
- Just-in-time programs for multiple locations.
- Specialized services, such as custom labeling, custom cartons,
private labeling, blind shipping, instructions for use, material contents,
safety instructions, sensitive-materials alerts, and lot-number
traceability.
One- and Two-Component Materials Delivery
Delivery systems of one-component adhesives, sealants or
resins are used in a variety of package types, including caulkers and
cartridges; single-barrel syringes; metal and plastic tubes; bottles and jars;
pouches; and vials.
Delivery systems of two-component reactive adhesives and sealants are found in
flexible pouches; pre-mixed and frozen syringes; injection and barrier
cartridges; and various coaxial and dual-cartridge systems, which are available
with mixing nozzles, dispensing guns, and other accessories.
One-Component Packaging
One-component
packaging is a cost-effective way to deliver precise amounts of material. By
using only the material needed, it minimizes waste. In addition, the packaging
can be designed to protect against UV degradation.
Two-Component Packaging
Two-component packaging allows maximization of a material’s
shelf life. In addition, it is a cost-effective packaging solution; by using
only the material needed, waste is minimized.
Flexible Burst-Seal Pouches and Flexible Divider Clip Pouches
These
are versatile packages designed to hold pre-measured amounts of unmixed resins
and catalysts in quantities ranging from 1-500 g in any ratio. The plastic
divider clips serve as applicators.
Dual-Cartridge Systems
Dual-cartridge systems isolate two resin components until
needed. Mixing occurs as the materials are dispensed through a motionless
mixing nozzle (static mixer). Dispensing guns apply pressure by way of a
plunger to the contents of the dual cartridges, forcing them to combine upon
entering the mixer. Cartridges are available in 1:1, 2:1, 2.5:1, 3:2, 4:1, 4:5,
5:1, 8:1, 10:1 and 25:1 volumetric ratios with capacities of 2.5-1,500 ml.
Dispensing guns are available in manual or pneumatic styles. Static mixers
(also referred to as motionless mixers) are narrow cylindrical tubes that
contain mixing elements. The elements are stationary parts that are positioned
to force the materials to combine as they travel through the length of the
mixer. Then, the mixed material is forced through the tip of the mixer to the
point of application. These low-cost mixers can be disposed of after use.
Coaxial Two-Component Delivery Systems
When used in combination with a dispensing gun, coaxial
systems can easily, quickly and accurately dispense resins without mess. All
are designed to work as an integrated high-performance system. The compact
design takes less space than similar-sized cartridges and can be used in almost
all manual, pneumatic, and battery-powered caulking tools.
Injection and Barrier Cartridge Assemblies
These store, mix and apply multi-component adhesives,
sealants, and other materials. The material can be mixed manually,
semi-automatically or automatically. When ready to use, the material is mixed
within the cartridge and applied directly from the package.
Pre-Mixed and Frozen Syringes and Cartridges
With
pre-mixed and frozen assemblies, reactive resin materials don’t need to be
weighed and mixed. Material stored in the freezer is thawed before use and then
applied. Conductives, epoxies, and polysulfides can be thoroughly blended then
degassed to remove entrapped air. The material is then frozen in disposable
syringes or cartridges, which are packed in dry ice and shipped to the
customer’s facility, where they can be stored in a freezer at -40°C.
Conclusion
Adhesive
packaging systems are offered as disposable kits, and allow the user to achieve
precise measurements in small to large production runs without the need for
capital expenditure. Today’s innovative packaging systems are designed to solve
the most demanding delivery applications.
About the Company
Adhesive
Packaging Specialties Inc. (APS) custom packages one- and two-component
adhesives, sealants, and resins. The company’s packaged products are used in
applications including aerospace, automotive, construction, electronics,
medical, microelectronics, military and telecommunications.
For more information on packaging and dispensing equipment, contact
Adhesive Packaging Specialties Inc., 103 Foster St., Peabody, MA 01960; phone
(800) 222-1117; fax (978) 532-8901; visit www.adhesivepackaging.com; or e-mail sales@adhesivepackaging.com.Links