Maximum Efficiency, Minimal Downtime
One of the most important tasks that any packaging facility or high-speed packaging line can accomplish is to run at maximum efficiency with minimal downtime. While that may seem near impossible to do, there are some key points below that will help any plant manager achieve that goal.
Preventative Maintenance
Completing routine preventative maintenance tasks is essential to stay up and running. While it may seem unnecessary to do preventative maintenance, especially since your lines are running normally, it is the only way to ensure your production lines stay continue running normally. The worst thing that can happen is for the line to go down and you lose a day or even a week’s worth of productivity. Maybe you do not know why the line is down, maybe you do not keep the spare parts needed, whatever it may be, it could have been prevented by some simple maintenance. That is why, at Universal Systems, we recommend changing your hot melt tank filters every month and clean the tank every quarter. In addition, also change out your in-line glue filters every month to ensure that you do not have any char clogging up your guns, modules or nozzles.
Keep Your Product Manual
It is all too common that we receive technical calls because the maintenance manager or line operator does not have the product manual and understand how their equipment should work. With every ProBilt tank system, we include the product manual which lists error codes, troubleshooting and replacement part numbers. We also have our product manuals available online. Another important step is to read through the setup manual if you are experiencing problems. Maybe something was set up incorrectly or not reset when an item was replaced.
Use Product Stickers on Machines for Easy Restock
Whenever USSE sends out modules or nozzles, we include a sticker that can be used on either the machine or the order wall of the Buyer. It is an easy and efficient way to know what parts you have running on each line and what you need to have in stock for a quick replacement.
Make Sure your Equipment Manufacturer is a USA Manufacturer
As a country, the US has gotten away from relying on US based manufacturing. Mainly, because of our obsession with cheap goods. But cheap goods do not have a long lifespan and while we may be saving money upfront, it costs us in the long run. That is no different in the packaging world. The best part about working with Universal Systems is that we have kept our products at a reasonable price for over 40 years and we stock every part you might need. So, if your hot melt equipment ever does go down, we can ship replacement parts same day.
It is Usually Always a Clog
The most common reason for your hot glue system acting up is because of a clog. Clogs are common because you are working with glue, which is sticky and chars over time. Below are some of the most common technical calls we receive, with the solution…and you guessed it, it’s usually always a clog.
Pump is not pumping
There are several reasons as to why your pump can stop up. Honestly, it is usually dirty oily air in your shifter. However, when it is not your shifter it is usually a clog. If your shifter is running fine, but it sucked something up into the hydraulics of the pump, the pump shifter will be stopped in the top position, unable to shift down. That is because you probably have some char or debris in your hot glue reservoir and while pumping, you sucked something up into the ball check valve. You have now clogged up your pump and need to send it in for a flush and clean. Another potential issue could arise if your pump is running but sluggish. If your pump is running mush slower than it used to, it is probably because you haven’t changed out your tank filter and it is clogged. The tank filter is located on the side of the tank and filters all glue before it runs into the hoses. If that filter is not regularly changed (every 500 – 1500 hours depending on how clean your glue is) then that clog can cause pressure to back up into the tank and not allow your pump to run at full capacity.
Gun is not firing
If your gun is not firing at all, it is probably your solenoid valve. However, if your gun is firing every other time or randomly, it is probably due to a clog in your in-line filters. The in-line filters filter the glue from your hoses into your gun. These filters are there to help filter our char or debris that was missed by the tank filter or that has built up in the heated hose. If the filter screens are not changed regularly, they will get clogged up and not allow for your gun to fire properly. For example, if you need to increase air pressure in order for your gun to fire, it is probably the in-line filter clogged up. Another clog can happen in the gun manifold itself. Typically, this is only in multi-module guns. If you have a multi-module gun and the last module in the line is not firing, there is probably a clog in the manifold.
Module Drips
If your module is constantly dripping glue, then you have a clog in your module. This is most common in air open, spring close modules. A piece of char will get stuck in the seat and not allow the piston to seal tightly, causing the glue to drip out. A clogged module will need to be replaced with a new module.
Nozzle keeps clogging
This one is fairly straight-forward. If your nozzles keep clogging there are a few solutions. First, you can change out your in-line gun filters. They are probably not clean and not filtering the glue through the gun. You can also increase your nozzle diameter. If you are running small hole nozzles such as .010 or .012 diameter, try a .014 or .016 and you will start to see less clogging. However, that will lay down a little more glue, so keep that in mind when reviewing your glue usage.
The best way overall to reduce the number of clogs in your hot melt systems is to do preventative maintenance. That means cleaning your tank every month or every quarter, depending on how many shifts your tanks are running. Universal Systems makes Purge Plus tank cleaner and we sell them in a 5-gallon pail so that you are set for at least 2 – 3 cleanings. Additionally, change out your tank filters and in-line filters. These 3 tips are the most inexpensive way to keep your hot melt system running smoothly.
Under Pressure: How changing air pressure impacts your hot glue lines
Universal Systems manufactures pneumatic hot melt systems, which means that our equipment operates via air pressure. It is important to understand how air pressure can put stress on equipment and why the correct pressure points are essential to run a consistent, well-maintained hot melt system.
The way that a pneumatic hot melt system works is that an airline goes into the pump, to move the pump shifter, air motor and pump piston up and down to pump the glue from the tank, through the manifold, through the hoses, into the guns and onto the boxes. There is also going to be another air line into the guns to get the module pistons to open, apply the glue, and in some cases there will be an additional air line the air to close the pistons.
Let’s start with the air pressure to the pump. The air pressure to the pump is very important and should always be set between 20 psi – 40 psi, with an ideal setting in the middle at 30 psi. If your technician thinks the pump is running too fast and lowers the psi to under 20, then the pump might not have enough pressure to move the shifter. In most cases, a pump will run at as low as 18 psi. If your technician comes to you and states that the pump was running too slow, so they increased the air pressure to over 40 psi, that could cause damage to the seals inside the pump’s air motor. It is important to note that if the air pressure on the pump is set to 40 and the pump is still not pumping efficiently, then there is another issue at hand. Most likely there is dirty air inside the shifter or a clog in the tank filter. The air pressure should never be increased to fix other issues stopping up your pump.
The second air pressure point in your hot melt system is at the applicator gun. The air going into the gun should be set at a minimum of 60 psi. In most cases, 60 is the perfect setting for the guns. If your technician tells you they need to set the psi higher to get the guns to fire, then there is a clog in the in-line filter and that filter should be replaced. If the psi to the guns is anything higher than 80, you could blow a seal on the module and have issues with application.
If you have any questions about air pressure, please call us at (561) 272-5442 or email sales@ussefl.com.
ProBilt Glue Systems Meet the Demands & Needs of Packaging Lines
The trend in packaging for many CPGs has been to move away from in-house packaging solutions and more towards co-packers and contract packagers. Rather than dedicating complete in-house lines, CPGs and processors can be more flexible with their budgets by putting the responsibility of capital investments for machinery in the hands of the contract packagers. In addition, the CPGs no longer have to worry about hiring line operators for the packaging machines. In the last few years, it has become clear that hiring, retaining and training employees is a challenge for every company. CPGs are finding that if they move the responsibility of packaging to contract companies, they no longer have to deal with that potential issue.
The move to contract packaging is not a bad thing for glue equipment OEMs, like Universal Systems SE. We enjoy working with contract packagers because they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to focus on packaging lines and, in most cases, know what they want and need from a hot glue machine, more than a CPG will.
Below is a list of requirements we are hearing about from Contract Packagers for their packaging equipment, and an explanation as to why Universal Systems ProBilt systems will work best to fulfill these needs.
- Quick changeovers to limit downtime – USSE’s ProBilt systems are plug and play. They are easy to set up and disable for cleaning, preventative maintenance, component replacement, etc.
- Preventative maintenance schedules – USSE believes that preventative maintenance is key to maintain the efficiency and longevity of any piece of machinery. A hot glue tank is no different. Universal Systems offers up a preventative maintenance schedule upon request, along with recommendations on what parts to keep on the shelf and how many of each part is needed to keep your operation up and running at all times.
- Streamlined equipment so that system components are interchangeable – Universal Systems prides ourselves in being the most streamlined OEM of hot melt machines in the market. Not only do all of our tanks take the same pumps, filters, valves, etc., all of our components are interchangeable with our top competitors including hoses, guns, modules and nozzles.
- Versatility for different packaging setups – Universal Systems manufactures over 100 different types of applications options, as well as the option to custom CNC any configuration needed.
- Easy-to-operate machines – Our ProBilt tanks are by far the easiest in the industry to operate. We focus on longevity and simplicity so that anyone can set up and operate our tanks with ease. We also offer online videos on how to set temperature and utilize our setback feature.
For more information on Universal Systems and our ProBilt line of products please reach out to sales@ussefl.com or call (561) 272-5442.
Spring Cleaning for Your Hot Melt Systems
It’s that time of year again, when the days are longer and everyone is motivated to do some Spring Cleaning. That should also apply to your hot melt equipment. Like most machinery, your hot melt tanks, hoses, guns, filters and nozzles need regular preventative maintenance and cleaning. Below is the maintenance recommendation schedule that Universal Systems SE provides to all of its customers regarding our ProBilt line of products.
ProBilt Melters
- Replace tank filter every 500 hours or 3 months, whichever comes first
- Clean tank with Purge Plus every 1,000 hours or 3 months, whichever comes first
*stock 2 – 3 tank filters per tank and 1 Purge Plus cleaner
ProBilt Pumps
- Clean and Flush Pump every 2,500 hours utilizing Pump Service Kit B100-900
- Replace Pump every 5,000 hours or until Pump stops pumping
*stock at least 1 pump to reduce any potential down time
ProBilt Hose
- Flush out hoses when cleaning tank with Purge Plus every 1,000 hours
*make sure to disconnect hoses from guns when flushing with Purge Plus
*stock at least 1 hose per length needed to reduce any potential down time
In-Line Filters
- Replace every 150 hours
*stock 5 spare filters for each filter body
Gun Applicator
- Only replace when it stops functioning –either the heater or RTD
*stock 1 spare gun applicator per line
Module
- Replace module every 1,000 hours or every 6 months, whichever comes first
*stock 2 – 6 modules depending on how many modules are on each gun being used
Nozzles
- Replace nozzles every 120 hours or when they clog
*stock a minimum of 6 nozzles per line
*If you clean nozzles, we recommend cleaning them with kit # 1658 every 100 hours or when they clog
To keep your stock up to date please give us a call at (561) 272-5442. A USSE sales rep will quote you pricing and lead time on anything you need.
Glue Gun vs. Module vs. Nozzle
One of the largest misconceptions of hot melt packaging machinery is that maintenance on a glue applicator gun means replacing the entire assembly. That is not always the case. While sometimes, glue guns do need to be replaced, there are other times when a module or nozzle could be a cheaper solution to your problem.
What’s the difference?
It is pretty simple. The glue gun is the entire assembly (minus the nozzle). This includes the cordset, heating element, RTD, manifold and module. Essentially, if you order a glue gun, once you receive it the only thing you need to do is plug it in, attach the in-line filter assembly though the back fitting, screw on a nozzle and you are good to go. The reason to replace the entire gun would be if you get an error code on your melter main board that the gun zone is either not heating or not reading the RTD. If you get the gun zone heater error, that means that the heating element has stopped working and the gun needs to be replaced. If you get the gun zone RTD error, that means that the temperature can no longer be regulated and the gun needs to be replaced.
However, if you get no main board error code, but your gun is dripping or not dispensing glue at all, that could be a module or nozzle issue.
Modules are the mechanisms that attach to the front of the glue gun manifold to dispense the glue. These modules are operated by air and springs within the module body that control the piston to dispense the glue for easy release and clean cut off. If you are experiencing dripping, or no clean glue cut off, then most likely there is char in the spring that is holding the piston up and leaving the module open. Or, in some cases, the seals within the module could be stiff from usage and wear, and no longer creating the tight seal required for precision dispensing. In either of these instances, the module would need to be replaced.
If you are getting no glue at all to come out of the module, most likely your nozzle is clogged. The nozzle, or tip, is typically attached to the module and can easily be changed by screwing it off and on. In some cases, such as zero cavity or reduced cavity modules, the nozzle is fixed and can only be replaced by rebuilding the entire module, replacing the tip, piston and seals.
If you have any questions about which part of your glue gun you need to replace, please give us a call at 561-272-5442 or email sales@ussefl.com.
When to Use Micro-Adjust Modules
Hot melt system modules are located on the front of your applicator guns. There are several different types of modules and in most cases, they can be easily replaced on the manifold versus replacing the entire gun assembly. Changing out a module is a more cost-effective way to increase productivity and lower glue costs. Typically, modules need to be replaced when they are having glue dripping issues or major leaking from the nozzle. This is caused by normal wear or char getting stuck in the piston chamber, not allowing it to seat securely.
When replacing a module, you have the option of buying a standard case sealer module or a micro-adjust module. This refers to the module’s adjustment cap on the module body. A standard case sealer module comes pre-set and typically needs no adjustment. This is our most popular style module. A micro-adjust module cap is typically sold on Zero Cavity or ProBead Reduced Cavity modules. These modules have a user-friendly adjustable screw top that changes the pressure of the glue through the nozzle. This allows the operator to dial in a precise glue bead. Typically, zero cavity and ProBead reduced cavity modules have micro-adjustable caps for this reason. For example, they are used on medication boxes or beauty supplies. Another advantage to a zero cavity or ProBead reduced cavity micro-adjust module is the self-cleaning functionality, limiting charring and clogging.
For more information about micro-adjust modules please reach out to a technical sales rep at sales@ussefl.com or call (561) 272-5442.
When to Replace a Module
One of the most commonly replaced items on any hot melt packaging line is the module. Typically confused with an applicator gun head, the module attaches to the front of the applicator gun and dispenses the glue through the nozzle and onto the applicable surface. If you are experiencing clogging issues with your hot melt line or dripping from the tip of the nozzle, most likely the module has reached it’s end of life and needs to be replaced.
Replacing a module is fairly simple. First make sure the air is disconnected from the applicator. Always wear Kevlar gloves and eye protection when replacing any parts on your active hot melt system. The parts get hot and extending downtime might not be an option, so operator safety is very important. Then, remove the front two screws from the module and pull the module off the surface of the gun manifold. Make sure that you use the new o-rings and screws that come in your new module replacement kit. This will ensure that the new seal is tight and will not leak once operations restart. Also, make sure you are replacing the existing module with the correct replacement module. Below is a list of module options:
- Standard H200 Module
- Reduced Cavity H200 Module
- ProBead Self-Cleaning Module
- Zero Cavity Standard H200 Module
- Zero Cavity Micro Adjust H200 Module
- Swirl Pattern Modules
- Weave Pattern Modules
- H20 Modules
Finally, we also recommend to put a new nozzle on every new module. This will ensure that no clogging will occur. If you have a zero cavity or ProBead module, then the nozzle will already be attached.
If you need any more information about modules for your packaging line, please email sales@ussefl.com or call (561) 272-5442.
The Importance of Product Support
Universal Systems SE has been manufacturing hot melt equipment since 1981. Starting with hoses and nozzles, then moving into applicators, pumps and tanks. Our first ProBilt tank was launched in 1990. Since then, our melter has only had a couple of generational upgrades. We believe that this is what sets us apart from other hot melt equipment manufacturers in the industry today. We have never believed upgrading our equipment or technology so much that it makes our old tanks in operation obsolete. We have added features and improved upon what we initially launched in 1990, but we have not let technology negatively impact the operational ease of our machines.
USSE believes in the importance of long-term product support and cross compatibility. There are hot melt system manufacturer’s in the industry, like Nordson®, who have discontinued not only production but also product support of their old melters. Both the 2300 series and 3000 series melters, while discontinued by Nordson®, are still in operation in hundreds of packaging facilities across America. Unlike Nordson®, Universal Systems still supports those old melters because we appreciate the fact that many of these melters, similar to the ProBilt melters, continue to run even 20+ years after initial operation. We are one of the only manufacturers in existence to still make and service 2300 & 3000 series pumps.
We also believe in product uniformity across all of our melters. That is why when we designed our melters, we made sure that all of Universal Systems’ ProBilt machines run the same control boards, pumps and tank filters. In most cases, facilities run several ProBilt melters, but only need to stock 1 or 2 of each spare part. That uniformity creates a streamlined and more simplistic inventory process.
As we move deeper into 2021 and our new normal continues to change, think about how the importance of long-term product support and a streamlined inventory process can help keep your packaging lines up and running. For more information about Universal Systems and our ProBilt line of melters please email sales@ussefl.com.
Packaging in the Pharmaceutical Industry
It’s been a wild ride over the last year, but the pandemic has brought on several advances in the pharmaceutical industry. Hot melt application in the pharmaceutical industry has always been important, but now more than ever. As the US pushes forward with millions of vaccines, each medication needs to be precisely packaged to make sure that it arrives safely to its destination.
Universal Systems manufactures ProBilt Zero Cavity Modules to apply a thin line of hot melt along medication boxes. Zero cavity modules have a very specific look, with a matched needle and nozzle assembly which eliminates minute material pockets that can cause nozzle clogging or dripping. They also come with an E-Z Micro Adjust option to that allows the operator to “dial in” on an exact adhesive extrusion and precise bead placement. This unique technology allows for line operators to place a small amount of glue on a small, predetermined location without creating any stringing. Typically, because of the precision requirements, most zero cavity modules are made with either a .008 or a .012 diameter orifice, so that there can never be too much glue applied.
Because zero cavities have a matched piston nozzle needle and seat, when they finally wear out, most manufacturers require customers to replace the entire module. Universal Systems does not. We manufacture a rebuild kit specifically for zero cavity modules for a fraction of the price of replacing an entire module. Check out our rebuild kits here: https://www.ussefl.com/products/hot-melt-modules/module-rebuild-kits/.
Not many hot melt application manufacturers offer zero-cavity modules. Luckily, here at Universal Systems we have been manufacturing this specific module for over 25 years. If you would like to learn more about zero cavity modules or get a price quote, please reach out to sales@ussefl.com or call (561) 272-5442.