Two of the most popular types of adhesives for forming and sealing cases are tape and glue.  Seal type closures can vary between the bottom seal (created by a case erector or box maker) and a top seal (created by a case sealer or case taper).

What is the difference between a glue and tape sealer?

Both types of case sealing equipment do the job of keeping a case closed, but they differ in the materials used in the sealing process and the methods used to apply the sealing fixative.  Hot melt glue sealers use a small applicator to deposit a meltable, heat-triggered synthetic resin onto the cartons.

Tape sealers use a combination of pressure-triggered plastic or fiber, with a polymer acting as the general adhesive component.  In addition, adhesives and sealants have different strengths; typically sealants have lower strength than adhesive.

Benefits of Using Hot-Melt Glue and Glue Sealers

• Hot melt glue is a less costly consumable than tape (packaging tape can cost 3-4 times more per carton sealed)
• Glue sealants provide a stronger structural strength, crucial when packaging heavy cartons
• Glue bonds are designed differently than the bonds used in tape and tape sealers, which provides a longer lasting hold over time
• Appealing and easily handled, hot melt glue offers a more professional seal with no folds that can be opened without scissors
• Glue sealing requires a compression step that bonds the major flap to the minor flat (with glue in between).  Product backup, which is support from the product inside the case, is required for compression.  Some products like bags, do not provide adequate compression.  

Benefits of Using Tape Sealers

• Tape sealers generally require a lower initial start-up cost for use
• Taping cartons is a better option for slower, less frequent case erecting
• Tape and tape sealers adapt more easily to a variety of carton shapes and sizes
• Tape sealers are generally safer to operate due to their simplicity; they can minimize injuries and danger to their operators.  Hot melt systems process their adhesives at high temperatures can burn an operator if improperly handled.
• Tape heads are the main components that require upkeep in tape machines; they are relatively simple and easy for technicians to operate and maintain.

Which is Best, Tape or Glue Sealers?

Thomas Conveyor & Equipment can help assess your existing production and distribution process to help you determine which sealer is optimal for your use.  We will consult with your production personnel to assess the processes in which you are packaging.

As an overall, glue offers a higher level of versatility for sealing.  It provides a custom seal, such as RSCs with gap flaps, trays and others.  Another consideration we use is environmental temperatures.  If you are packing in a cold environment, hot melt glue may cool down too fast to be of use.  Likewise, if you are working in a dusty environment, tape may not be a good fit.

Depending on your operation, if you work with smaller volumes, are constantly changing box sizes or have a very specific distribution process, tape sealers might be the best option for your company.  But if you have a consistently high output, and require a highly durable, reliable seal, a glue sealer might be the better choice. 

Thomas Conveyor and Equipment Company offers a variety of end of process systems for your application. Call today to speak with an application engineer!