GDI Adhesive’s Frequently Asked Questions
What are Glue Dots®?
Glue Dots adhesives are double -sided, pressure-sensitive adhesives that bond instantly to virtually any surface.
Why should I use Glue Dots over other adhesives?
Faster and safer than hot melt systems, cleaner than liquid adhesives, and leaving none of the sticky residue of double sided tapes, Glue Dots eliminates burns, fumes and longer set-up times.
Are Glue Dots safe to use?
Yes! Glue Dots are non-toxic and odorless. Our adhesives are available in FDA-compliant formulas for direct or indirect food contact and conform to ASTM D-4236. In addition, unlike hot melt, there’s no risk of burn injuries with our pre-formed adhesives.
How do I apply Glue Dots?
Press your substrate against the Glue Dot and peel away. Press the adhesive onto the intended surface. Avoid touching Glue Dots with your fingers! Dust and oils will compromise the bond. Glue Dots can also be applied with Glue Dots’ manual adhesive application equipment, semi-automated application equipment or fully-automated application equipment.
What's the best method for applying Glue Dots?
Glue Dots can be quickly and cleanly applied either manually or with a piece of Glue Dots application equipment. From manual to fully automated, Glue dots has a dispensing method that will provide a cost-effective method to achieve optimal productivity.
Can Glue Dots be used in an assembly line?
Incorporating Glue Dots adhesive applicators into your assembly process is easy and cost-effective. If you are unsure of which Glue Dots product will fit your assembly line best, contact us at 1-888.458.3368 and our experienced account specialists can help you find the right solution.
What materials do Glue Dots adhesives adhere to?
Glue Dots adhere to a wide variety of materials including paper, plastic, foil, glass, aluminum, styrofoam and wood. If the substrates you’re working with are questionable, contact us at 1-888.458.3368 and our experienced team will help you find the best adhesive for your specific application.
How can I ensure the best bond possible?
Moisture, oils, dust, lotions and some silicone-coated products can interfere with the bonding quality of our adhesives. To ensure the best bond possible keep the adhesives free of these contaminates and make sure that the surface you are applying the adhesive to are clean and dry.
Why use a 3/4 inch dot over a 1/2 inch dot?
Your choice will depend on the size of the surface area of the materials you are adhering to. There is a direct correlation between the amount of surface contact and the overall strength of the bond. 1/2″ diameter dots (as well as several adhesive patterns) are designed for maximum surface area contact.
Do you manufacture fugitive glues?
The term “fugitive” commonly refers to removable adhesives. Many of our products meet that definition and can be used in the same application as fugitive glues.
What is the difference between tack level and profile?
Tack level refers to the aggressiveness of the adhesive. Low tack Glue Dots are considered removable when adhered to most surfaces. Medium tack and high tack Glue Dots can either be removable or permanent dependent upon the substrates used in the application. Super high tack and high tack Glue Dots are considered permanent and will tear paper. Profile refers to the thickness, or height of the adhesive pattern. Low profile dots are considered flat when compared to high profile adhesives, which are 1/8 inch thick. Medium and high-profile dots are best suited for round, concave or irregularly shaped objects.
Does it matter what tack level I use?
Absolutely! Different applications require different tack levels. As the user of the product, you are the best judge of the bond strength required for your specific application. Your Glue Dots distributor can assist you in determining the best product for your needs by supplying you with a variety of samples to test on your substrates.
What is the shelf life of Glue Dots?
While Glue Dots adhesives will not degrade over time, they do need to be stored in a clean, dry environment in their original packaging, without being exposed to extreme temperatures, high humidity, sunlight or other UV light sources, which can interfere with the bonding qualities.
What are the hottest and coldest temperatures Glue Dots can withstand?
This will depend on the amount of stress the bond is under. In some cases, our Research and Development Department team may develop a custom adhesive solution for your application.
Where can I purchase Glue Dots Adhesive Products?
We sell our products through qualified distributors. To locate a distributor nearest you, contact us or call 1-888.458.3368.