This company has introduced the PD1 Head Driver to enhance the performance of electric heads in hot melt applicator systems. The driver translates a 5- to 24-volt DC timing signal from a pattern controller to a high-energy, DC output signal for activating solenoid-activated valves for applying hot melt adhesive. Advantages over earlier-generation head drivers include sharper adhesive pattern cut-off, less heat generation of the valve solenoid coil to achieve longer service life, and increased accuracy of pattern placement. The high-energy DC output increases the valve’s opening and closing speed using pulse width modulation technology. It can open and close valves fast enough to produce a minimum adhesive bead output in eight milliseconds and recharge in about 15 milliseconds.