The glue gun is becoming increasingly popular, its use is convenient, and the gluing result lasts a long time. You can find equipment in different price categories on the market, for this reason they have begun to use it more often for domestic needs. But in order to get a high-quality result, you should study the rules of how to glue with a glue gun. These points will be described below.
What can be glued
Hot-melt adhesive can successfully cope with various tasks of gluing objects. It is becoming an alternative option to replace many adhesives, for example, Moment. A reliable layer is created that neatly and firmly glues the elements together. The seam withstands moisture and does not emit harmful substances.
Hot glue gun that can be glued:
- Wood can replace polyurethane foam;
- Metal;
- Ceramics;
- Leather/textile;
- Paper/cardboard;
- Stone;
- MDF;
- Chipboard.
Such a variety of options for using the product makes it possible to practice different types of needlework at home; children love to create different fakes with their parents. Any parts will be securely glued together.
The adhesive is suitable for working with elements that do not require active use. Gluing shoes with a glue stick will work permanently, but this option is not suitable for quick repairs. Working with gypsum, cement, and concrete does not give a lasting result, but you can first apply a primer solution to the base or paint it, then the reliability of the adhesion will increase.
Hot-melt adhesive can successfully cope with various tasks of gluing objects.
Application
When tiling a stove or fireplace, all work is carried out in several stages:
- Preparatory. The surface is painstakingly cleaned of dirt, dust, paint, and buildup residues. Seal all holes and bulges. Then moisten with plenty of water. The tile is also smoothed to size, then moistened with water.
- Fastening the tiles.
If a dry consistency is used, it is prepared in advance according to the instructions indicated on the package. But it should be borne in mind that after about an hour the solution loses its viscosity and becomes unsuitable for use. - Next, the adhesive composition is applied to the base. The layer thickness can reach up to 10 mm. It all depends on the brand of glue used. Add a small amount so that the substance does not have time to harden. Then they begin laying the tiles in the direction from bottom to top.
Next, the adhesive composition is applied to the base. The layer thickness can reach up to 10 mm. It all depends on the brand of glue used. Add a small amount so that the substance does not have time to harden. Then they begin laying the tiles in the direction from bottom to top.
The tiled surface is immediately smoothed, and the remaining adhesive is quickly removed.
Completion of work. Approximately four days after the cladding, the joints are grouted. The grout composition must also be heat-resistant.
Safety regulations:
- The composition of heat-resistant adhesive includes various synthetic chemical elements. So, when diluting a solution containing cement, alkali is formed. Contact with the skin or mucous membrane can result in severe burn injuries.
- When using a dry consistency, there is an increase in dust particles, fibers, and grains of chemicals in the air.
When interacting with such substances, you must follow the safety rules:
- All work must be carried out using special rubber gloves. To protect the mucous membranes of the eyes, as well as the upper respiratory tract, use a respirator and safety glasses.
- If an unsafe substance gets on the surface of the skin or mucous membranes, they should be washed with copious amounts of water. If signs of deep damage occur, you must immediately seek help from qualified specialists.
Operating principle of the heating unit, feed mechanism and coupling of an electric glue gun
Before you understand how to use a glue gun, you need to understand the principle of its operation and structure. The heating chamber is located in the barrel of the device and looks like a metal compartment. A heating element is installed nearby as standard. Some devices have multiple heating chambers to ensure even heating. It is the thermal unit that is considered the main part; it determines how long the gun will last.
The size of the heating chamber and its power determine the result of the device’s operation, how quickly the rod will melt, and in what volumes it will be prepared for application.
The feed mechanism is a ring pusher, its action is started by pressing the trigger. This element requires special attention; most often it is the one that fails if you actively try to squeeze out a larger volume of glue. Most often, the size of the mechanism is suitable for a certain type of rod; if its dimensions differ from the required ones, the device will quickly fail.
If we talk about the silicone type of gun, then it is worth considering the work of the guide coupling. It looks like a receiver in the form of a tube and is installed in front of the heating chamber. Serves as an obstacle to prevent liquid glue from getting back into the device. This element fails faster; the coupling is made of rubber, which loses its properties over time and allows molten glue to pass through. Therefore, it is difficult to supply glue at the outlet; such problems can lead to a short circuit.
The feed mechanism is a ring pusher, its action is started by pressing the trigger.
Interesting design of postal messages
For many centuries, a wax seal was a sign that the delivered correspondence was genuine. At different times, various materials were invented to seal postal envelopes containing letters with valuable information. And they always put a personal seal imprint with a complex unique design if correspondence was carried out between representatives of the upper classes, rulers of different states.
What prevents you from designing your correspondence or gift not in a modern boring standard, but in a more interesting way? Absolutely nothing! Especially if you have a glue gun on hand.
Making this kind of envelope design is quite simple - melt the hot glue and apply it in the place where the envelope closes.
As an advertisement
Features of the structure and functioning of nozzles
Damage to the coupling can be caused by trying to remove the rod after work by twisting it. Then the glue will spoil the rubber; in this case, it is better to cut off the tip of the rod to avoid such effects.
What is the name of the part of the hot glue gun through which the substance comes out? The answer is the name - the nozzle. It is necessary to regulate the size of the glue seam, determine the dosage of supply and closing the outlet of the substance. There is also a shut-off valve here, which is responsible for holding the solution so that it does not flow out excessively.
To avoid increased pressure due to overheating of the glue, the channel is not completely blocked, for this reason it is better to place some material under the tip.
There are direct-flow nozzles, but with them the glue consumption increases. It happens that different types of nozzles are attached to the device; their replacement can only be done in a heated state, when the glue is in an uncured state.
Many devices have a special window through which you can monitor the glue consumption, the condition of the rod and coupling; this addition may increase the cost. You should not place the gun on its side while heating, otherwise the temperature may damage the product on which the device rests.
The nozzle is necessary to regulate the size of the glue seam, determine the dosage of supply and close the outlet of the substance.
Candlestick
For this work you need a glass vase or glass, glue with a gun, acrylic or aerosol paint and spray oil or regular vegetable oil.
Choose a wide container that you will use as a candlestick, since the temperature of the burning candle can melt the glue, which will undoubtedly ruin the product.
Clean the vase from traces and cover with a thin layer of oil. Create a beautiful pattern or design on the outer surface of the glass, you can even come up with a special structure.
It is best to apply lines of glue that will touch each other in case it is easy to remove the adhesive layer from the glass.
When the job is finished, the glass must be rinsed from traces of glue; a detergent will do the best job. And the candlestick itself needs to be painted with your favorite color. If you are using spray paint, please read the instructions carefully before using it.
An interesting look are crafts made from threads and glue, which cover, for example, a vase with a layer of multi-colored threads, and the glue is used as a binder.
You don't have to look at someone else's work and copy it exactly. Use your imagination and you can come up with adhesive accompaniments for any item in your interior. There are a lot of options, you just have to raise your head and run your eyes over the objects that surround you.
You can also find on the Internet various master classes on crafts made from glue that will help you if you really can’t come up with anything on your own. Some tips can be very useful.
Try to surprise your guests and loved ones with such gizmos that are made strictly only from glue, without the use of other decorative items. Take our instructions on how to make a craft from glue as a basis, supplement them with something of your own and you will truly amaze your future fans.
How to use
The core substance does not stick until it is heated. The required heating time may take a couple of minutes if it is a low-temperature type of rod. After treatment with glue, the elements are pressed together, after 5 minutes the setting stage of the composition is completed, the layer becomes waterproof.
The thicker the layer, the longer it will take to set.
The required time to warm up may take a couple of minutes.
How to charge
Charging an electric glue gun is simple, the first charge will be faster than the others, there is no glue inside yet. For convenience, some models have a light identifier that will show when the process is complete.
For convenience, some models have a light identifier that will show when the process is complete.
Warm-up rules
To carry out quality work, you need to properly heat the rods. When choosing them, they look at the heating power of the device; different rods require different temperature exposure. The glue gun that can be glued is determined by this characteristic.
Heating takes from 2 to 8 minutes, this process is influenced by the type of glue and the features of the gun. If it is found that the composition does not come out through the nozzle, then the device cannot cope; the reason may be the wrong type of rod, or a malfunction.
Increased heating is not beneficial for the device; the product can damage the coupling. When frequent changes of rod types are expected, a device with the ability to regulate the heating temperature is selected.
Different rods require different temperature exposure.
Replacing the rod
It is difficult for beginners to remove the remnants of the rod. You should not remove the glue in solid form, as this will lead to breakage. It is better to heat up the gun and carefully remove the old wick. If changing the color of the rod is not expected, then the best option to refill the gun would be to heat the old cartridge in order to drip it onto the new one, then they will join together.
The best option to refill the gun would be to heat the old cartridge and drip it onto the new one, then they will fuse together.
Kinds
The distribution of adhesives by type is carried out according to two distinctive features: by the volume of dry residue and by the composition of the rubber itself. According to GOST, the volume of dry residue can be from 6-8% to 8-12%. The glue, if it contains from 6 to 8% of dry residue, is known as brand A (more elastic composition), and when the figure is from 8 to 12%, then it is glue released under brand B.
The most used classification is based on the characteristics of the rubber it contains.
The most common subtypes of rubber products include:
- Compositions made from natural rubber. This substance contains sulfur. This glue is chosen for gluing parts made of cardboard, leather or fabric. Suitable for carpet.
- Chloroprene composition. To carry out vulcanization, divalent metal oxides are included in it. The composition is very good in terms of connecting qualities, which is why it is chosen for gluing metal and other elements.
- Adhesive containing nitrile butadiene rubber. Sulfur also acts as a vulcanizing element here, but only with the addition of thiurams. This adhesive is waterproof and is selected for a variety of popular materials.
- Organosilicon glue. Its hardening occurs only under the influence of tetrabutoxylane. It is rarely used, since it can only glue homogeneous rubber.
- Styrene butadiene adhesive. It has weak gluing ability and therefore is purchased only for production, for example, for the production of adhesive tape. Other artificial rubbers can also be used as the basis for this type of glue, but their use is limited.
Adhesive compositions for rubber are divided according to their intended purpose: for industrial and home use (for gluing various coatings at home). Industrial glue is used in production, it is produced in huge volumes, and it is applied to coatings using special tools.
Such compositions are glue 88, 88 N and 88 SA. They are found in the construction industry - when installing various finishing surfaces, in the automotive industry - for gluing rubber products, in the production of furniture and any shoes. This product is suitable for gluing rubber and gluing it to metals, paper, wood.
Quick-drying universal adhesive “Moment-1”. It is best chosen for gluing rubber, wood, metals, leather and felt, plastic and glass, as well as ceramics. This high-strength composition is very toxic and quite flammable, so it can only be used in the air or in a ventilated room, while keeping the composition away from open flames.
It is applied in a thin layer to two completely dry elements, which are first cleaned and degreased, then they are kept for about 15-20 minutes until completely dry. After this, press both surfaces firmly against each other for only 10-15 seconds.
You can also often find such a type of rubber glue as liquid rubber - this is a transparent adhesive paste made of polyurethane for repair work, protecting surfaces and their high-quality waterproofing. This composition is wear-resistant, flexible, it completely fills existing gaps, and is not afraid of temperature changes.
It is also worth mentioning rubber adhesive-sealant - this is a high-strength adhesive that is needed for high-quality repairs of seals in doors and windows. It hardens very quickly and perfectly bonds porous and non-porous materials.
Safety instructions for use
An electrical appliance requires compliance with safety regulations. The glue gets very hot when working, so it is better to protect your hands with gloves and your eyes with goggles.
During operation, the gun is installed on a stand, the nozzle is placed down, and protective material is placed under it. The nozzle of a working device must not be touched. The gun is used for safety as follows:
- There should not be high humidity in the room;
- Work is carried out in good lighting;
- You should not connect the device to a network with voltage surges;
- There should be no children nearby, or work should be carried out under adult supervision;
- You cannot pull the cable.
The nozzle of a working device must not be touched.
How to change the color of the rod correctly
Decorative work often involves changing colors. Then the gun is heated and the old shade is removed with care. A new one is placed, when the heating stage is completed, the remnants of the previous shade are released, and the new color can be applied to the product.
It is advisable to use rods of the same brand.
A new one is installed when the heating phase is completed.
Range
Hotmelt adhesives of various colors are in demand, as this makes it possible to choose the adhesive to match the color of your material so that the adhesives do not stand out. Of course, PVA cannot be compared with thermoplastic glue; PVA does not have such strong adhesion.
The most common shades available on the market are transparent (universal: suitable for cardboard, ceramics, plastic, fabric, tiles), opaque (for glass and metal), yellow (suitable for wood), black (suitable for insulating wires, suitable for as a sealant), colored (suitable for decorative work, used on cardboard and paper).
Popular models:
- Bamfutura;
- 5 second fix;
- Rtv-904;
- Sealant;
- Termo.
They differ in technical properties: fire resistance, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, heat resistance.
How to use glue sticks without a gun
The step-by-step instructions for using glue sticks include a mandatory heating step for the adhesive structure to activate. If there is no special gun, then there are life hacks for heating with other devices:
- Gas-burner;
- Electric stove;
- Construction hair dryer;
- Candle;
- Soldering iron.
The step-by-step instructions for using glue sticks include a mandatory heating step for the adhesive structure to activate.
How to clean a glue gun
The device is cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions. The general rule of care is to clean the outside of the nozzle after the device has cooled down. When the glue particles have dried on the device, you can remove them using foil and heat. Foil is placed on the area, the glue is heated with a finger, this will lead to the composition sticking to the foil. After which the removal of the layer will take place without problems.
The general rule of care is to clean the outside of the nozzle after the device has cooled down.
Common faults and solutions
In order for the device to last a long time, you need to know how to use a glue gun. But sometimes malfunctions happen, some can be solved on your own.
In order for the device to last a long time, you need to know how to use a glue gun.
The rubber coupling has deteriorated
If you remove the rod from the gun incorrectly, you can damage the rubber coupling. Its integrity will lead to glue getting into other compartments, which may result in a short circuit. Therefore, when working, always act carefully.
When the clutch has worn out over time, there is no way to replace it. You'll have to buy a new pistol.
The work is always done carefully.
Doesn't heat up
The most common cause is the failure of a ceramic heating device. It is impossible to replace it. Sometimes heating occurs. But only up to 110 degrees, then you can use the “raptor”, a plate is removed from it, which is installed in the gun. The failure may consist of broken wires near the heating chamber, then they are simply soldered.
You can use a “raptor”, a plate is removed from it, which is installed in the gun.
A glue gun is a convenient solution for fastening a variety of materials. The layer turns out strong, and you can get beautiful decorative fakes; hot-melt adhesives are also suitable for more serious tasks.
Some tips
A hot-melt gun and hot-melt adhesive are devices specially made for each other. They are intended for gluing various surfaces. However, if the gun is missing or broken, glue sticks can be melted without it.
To do this, just heat the glue stick with a lighter. It should be remembered that this method is very inconvenient. Suitable only in emergency situations. You must be extremely careful when carrying out such manipulations.
We recommend watching the video instructions:
If it is necessary to replace the glue stick in the gun with a different color or composition, it must first be cleaned. Remove the old rod and warm up the device. Press the trigger until any remaining glue comes out.
It is more convenient to paint crafts using hot glue using cans of paint. This way the color will lie more evenly. It is better to carry out this work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Protect the table and all surfaces from accidental paint.
