The adhesives industry is always evolving. In an issue of Adhesives & Sealants Industry Magazine, ASI outlines some key trends that those in the industry need to pay attention to:
In order to meet the expectations of consumers today, manufacturers are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact. Research is conducted in order to develop sustainable product alternatives that serve as replacements for harmful chemicals. However, in the adhesives industry, performance and cost remain equally important considerations when deciding which products to use. Adhesives typically comprise 1% or less of end products by volume, yet serve a critical function. Instead of focusing on the sustainability of the adhesive itself, manufacturers consider the overall properties and sustainability of the finished product in which the adhesive was used.
Source: http://www.adhesivesmag.com/articles/94611-sustainable-raw-materials-how-to-plan-for-market-success
Use of 3-D vision in adhesive applications
3-D vision systems are used to inspect adhesive applications that can’t be addressed with conventional 2-D vision systems. When adhesive is applied to hold two components together or seal a joint against the elements, it is often possible to determine the footprint of the adhesive using 2-D machine vision or a human inspector, but these techniques cannot accurately determine the volume of the glue or the glue’s features when the adhesive and the part or background are black on black. A 3-D vision system that uses a combination of a laser that projects a line and an image sensor overcomes these challenges and can determine the position and the volume of the adhesive. This makes it easy to verify that the correct amount has been applied and that it is in the right position to seal the part.
Ebeam technology is thriving
Ebeam technology has existed for over 40 years, but more recently, it has been gaining traction among adhesives manufacturers and package converters as an alternative to oven drying and ultraviolet curing. The technology is favorable because it is both powerful and cost-effective. Ebeam technology produces virtually no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) which the The Adhesive and Sealant Council views negatively, since they can contribute to respiratory issues and compromised air quality. The upfront cost of an ebeam system is traditionally more expensive than UV systems but the payback period can often be calculated in months since they offer more consistent output and more efficient energy usage.
Source: http://www.adhesivesmag.com/articles/94620-a-new-cure-for-adhesives-and-sealants
For more information about trends related to the adhesives industry, contact Fishman Corporation.
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