Easyflow^® Auto-Feeding Hot Melt Adhesive

Automation continues to grow in consumer goods applications. Reducing manual handling of materials enables fast-moving consumer goods companies to keep up with increased consumer demand. Hot melt adhesives are commonly used in production of a variety of consumer goods to address a variety of bonding needs. 

Manufacturing personal hygiene products is a continuous process where different materials are bonded together in several adhesives’ application points. To keep it running efficiently, operators need to monitor the entire line and involve many staff to keep the hot melt equipment working efficiently. The challenge is:

• Keeping a steady flow of adhesive to the production lines
• Eliminating manual handling for operators
• Maintaining consistent adhesive temperature
• Providing a clean and safe working environment

Eliminating Manual Handling of Hot Melt Adhesives

For nonwoven applications – baby diapers, absorbent pads and adult incontinence products – manual feeding of a few hot melt adhesive chubs occurs every 10 to 15 minutes to keep the adhesive at the right temperature and hot melt tank level. Fluctuations in adhesive level can impact the quality of the consumer products. When the hot melt level is too low, a large amount of adhesive is needed to avoid starving the production line. The influx of hot melt adhesive chubs will reduce the temperature of the molten adhesive. Adhesive applied at lower than recommended temperatures can cause application failures affecting end product quality.

The other challenge is keeping the production area orderly and free of materials. Boxes of adhesive chubs are generally stocked around the production line in easy reach for operators. The pallets of hot melt adhesive create a busy environment. It can be difficult for the operator to move around, even exposing them to tripping hazards. These obstacles can slow refilling of the hot melt tanks and potentially slow production.

Easyflow^® hot melt adhesive system adds hot melt adhesive auto-feeding capabilities to nonwoven production lines solves many of the efficiency problems operators face during each shift. The system:

• Eliminates manual handling of adhesive chubs
• Reduces labor time dedicated to replenishment allowing operators to focus on more valuable tasks
• Provides a clean and safe work area

Level sensors installed within the system trigger the delivery of fresh adhesive in an air-conveyed, closed system.  This assures hot melt adhesive temperature is maintained and improves adhesive performance. Additionally, the adhesive is stored away from the production line to improve the workspace functionality and operator safely.

Hot Melt Adheisve Designed for Operational Efficiency

Easyflow^® is a patented, adhesive in small, non-sticky mini pillows. This unique form enables auto feeding of TECHNOMELT DM adhesives into hot melt tanks, improving production line efficiency while manufacturing disposable hygiene products and minimizing downtime and material handling. Mini in size, Easyflow^® is mighty when it comes to performance and efficiency. Produced with a protective coating, the adhesives is delivered in small, light, non-sticky and easy to handle mini pillows. The protective coating does not compromise or affect the application or end-performance of the adhesive. The coating is 100% compatible with the adhesive. It will not separate in the hot melt tanks.

Easyflow^® In this free-flowing hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive delivered via air conveyance from reusable bag into hot melt tanks and dispensed onto the nonwoven substrate. The adhesive is designed for storage away from the production line and avoid manual handling of adhesive. Easyflow^® is a complete solution and allows different equipment configurations to meet the unique requirements and space limitations for each manufacturer.

Partner with Us to Drive Growth and Innovation

Easyflow^® combines three unique features to increase operational efficiency for personal hygiene applications.  The new melt-on-demand adhesive form enables auto-feeding within a closed system and results in:

•   Reduced risks and manual product handling for operators
•   Decreased operating costs
•   Improved quality and output

Our mini pillows set a new standard in performance and efficiency. Learn how our mini pillows can make a big difference in your production lines. Contact Henkel to learn more about Easyflow^® .