Independent Air vs. Common Air Glue Guns
Hot melt applicators are used in high-speed packaging to apply melted hot glue onto the sub-straights of boxes. There are several different styles of applicators that Universal Systems manufactures, both single module and multi-module. If you are running a multi-module pneumatic applicator, you can run the air to the module either independently or at the same time, otherwise known as independent air versus common air.
If you are running your system where your modules all fire at the same time, common air applicators are what you want. They are easy to use and only require one solenoid to fire all the modules on that gun. They are by far the most machined and used applicator gun in the industry.
If you are running your system where your multi-module gun fires the modules at different times, then you will need an independent air applicator. An independent air applicator requires each module to have its own airline and solenoid to fire independently of the other modules on the manifold. It allows for more versatility, but is more expensive to operate due to the need for multiple solenoids.
If you are running a multiple module applicator and don’t know if you need a common air or independent air operation, call your sales rep at Universal Systems. We will help you identify the positives and negatives of each set up and understand which is the best for your line. An added value of using a Universal Systems ProBilt applicator gun, is that our manifolds are machined with our unique design to allow you the versatility to go from common air to independent air with just the addition of one of our patented plates. This way, if you decide to change your setup after purchasing a manifold, they can be easily converted between common air and independent air.
For more information, call us at (561) 272-5442 or email a sales representative at sales@ussefl.com.
The Importance of Graphite Seals & PTFE in Hot Melt Equipment
Graphite seals and PTFE are used in all of Universal Systems SE’s pumps and modules to increase the longevity and life of those products. But why? In order to understand how we can boast about the quality of our products, it is first important to understand the quality and reasoning behind using certain key components.
Graphite seals are used in both the pumps and modules to create a smooth seal for the piston to move seamlessly through. Below are a few bullet points that explain why this particular component is so important.
- Excellent heat resistance – up to 500°F – most all hot melt adhesive systems will heat up to 450°F, so even if a packaging line runs at the highest temperature allowed by the system, the graphite seals will remain unscathed.
- It has a medium to high pressure rating – the maximum operating pressure on any pump should not exceed 35 – 45 psi. The most common operating pressure is 20 – 25 psi. These seals are rated perfectly for this type of application.
- Excellent abrasion resistance – some packaging lines are not run with the cleanest adhesives, so utilizing graphite seals allows for any adverse environmental condition.
- Very resistant to chemicals – this allows the end user the ability to not only use multiple types of adhesives, but cleaners as well.
- Excellent extrusion resistance in severe conditions.
If you are interested in learning more about the components used to manufacture Universal Systems line of ProBilt™ equipment, please call (561) 272-5442 or email tech@ussefl.com.