There are several ways to connect various objects and materials, but the simplest and most effective method is adhesive fixation. To use a glue gun, you need to know the general operating rules. The principle of operation is simple - the device heats up a polymer rod, which becomes plastic under the influence of temperature. Using a gun, the adhesive mass is applied to the desired area. Then the gluing itself is done.
How to use
Thermal guns are used at large furniture manufacturing enterprises, where they are used to install finishing elements on cabinets, upholstery of sofas, and armchairs. They are used in construction and the production of decorative items. When purchasing for home use, the list of operations increases. Hobbies, children's crafts, interior decoration, minor repairs are the area of application for a glue gun. You need to know the rules for using the device at home. Additional information will make the gun more effective where it can be used, and put it aside where it is inappropriate.
How to charge
Manufacturers have tried to make the operation of the device simple. The design of the pistol allows it to be loaded without additional devices, disassembly, or other operations. The simplest charge is the first one. The rod inlet and nozzle are clean. There are no traces of past work, signs of physical impact, or damage. For work, take the glue of the required brand. When purchasing, you need to know the characteristics of the rod. Products include the following types:
- Transparent. Universal rods with low melting point.
- Black. Designed for sealing joints, like sealant. They have a high melting point.
- Colored. The polymer is painted over the entire mass and the glue on the parts is not visible. Widely used in handicrafts.
- Decorative. They are used when the glue itself becomes a finishing element. May contain glitter, mother-of-pearl, and fibers.
- High temperature. Special types of glue for fixing elements that are subject to increased loads.
When purchasing, pay attention to the diameter of the rod. The most popular brands have values of 7 and 11 mm. However, products of other standards are also available for sale, for example, 8, 12 mm. The rod size specified in the instructions cannot be replaced.
As a rule, charging the glue gun itself is not difficult. The rod is inserted into the hole in the back of the device until it stops. In some models, it is necessary to advance it by repeatedly pressing the trigger until it rests on the heating chamber. Guns with a temperature indicator are convenient. A glowing diode indicates that the device continues to heat up. When the indicator goes out, you can start working.
Warm-up rules
The melting point is indicated on the packaging with the rods. If you purchased a low-power gun, then not every type of glue will work. There are models designed to work with low-temperature rods that melt at 105 °C. It is not recommended to insert consumables with a higher melting point into them. Even if the glue begins to soften, the work will be very difficult and long. Excessive pressure on the mechanical parts of the gun may cause them to break.
Key properties when choosing
The pistol is selected depending on the goals and tasks that it has to perform. For crafts, the most simple, low-power one will do. For repairs, a more serious unit will be needed. The same applies to the diameter of the working rods. The most popular is 11 mm. Smaller ones are less common, larger ones are used in industrial products.
It wouldn’t hurt to have a switch and a stand to secure the gun “at idle.” It heats up quickly, so the toggle switch does more good than harm. When choosing, you should not buy the cheapest, unsightly, poorly packaged pistols: they will not last long. It is better to give preference to legally manufactured products, with product details and a guarantee in case of breakdown.
Check valve reliability
The presence of a special device - a check valve - allows you to extend the life of the gun and get rid of unpleasant glue drips. Its reliability directly depends on the class of equipment and quality of manufacture, as well as handling of the device.
The check valve is a special ball that blocks the flow of glue in the nozzle. To increase the service life of the unit and the gun as a whole, it is necessary to periodically clean the internal channels of the frozen adhesive mass.
Glue heating time
This indicator is not the same for different models. It is related to power, the presence of a heating regulator, and the type of glue stick. On average, this is a period of up to 5 minutes. Industrial models, with a powerful heater and the function of changing the temperature of the melt, are ready to supply liquid glue faster than their smaller brothers. But the difference in price between them is considerable, and this also affects the choice of a housewife or a crafts maker of “Kulibin”.
Availability of attachments and extensions
Additional devices or additional parts always have a beneficial effect on the operation of the unit, since they expand the arsenal of its skills. In the case of a pistol, these are replaceable nozzles with different outlet diameters and special extensions. The benefits of them are undeniable: penetration into hard-to-reach places, regulation of the portion of glue squeezed out at the touch of a button. Simple models are usually not equipped with such accessories, only expensive and professional ones.
Rods
They differ in diameter (7 or 8 millimeters, 11, 25, and so on), melting point, color. Saving on normal rods for the sake of low-quality and cheap ones threatens uneven melting, the appearance of stretching “snot” and a decrease in the strength of the seam. Colored glue sticks are needed to create applications, three-dimensional figures, and fix some interior details.
Standard rods for all occasions are milky in color. They are used by 90% of pistol owners. Before purchasing consumables, you need to know what standard size a particular piece of equipment works with. The rod is not a pencil; trimming it and somehow inserting an 11 mm into an 8 mm pistol will not work.
Chamber size and heating element power
The hot glue gun is designed in such a way that the size of the heater, the “firebox” for heating the rod and the power correspond to the dimensions and class of the device. Small, 15-watt pistols have enough chamber to work with a 7-8 mm rod. Solid models are designed for a larger size, which means they will heat up a piece of glue faster and prepare it for work. This is pure physics, which also applies to glue guns.
See also
Characteristics and types of cork glue, instructions for use
Wire length
It would seem that this parameter is insignificant in comparison with others. But it is inconvenient to work with a “short-wire” gun: you need to be directly close to the outlet. The issue is solved by connecting an extension cord, but why do this if you can purchase a gun with a longer power cord?
Availability of replaceable nozzles
Another bonus that will be appreciated by those who plan to use a glue gun a lot and often. The nozzle is clogged, there is no time or desire to clean it - a spare tire will help. It also happens that the nozzle is hopelessly damaged, clogged with glue, and the working unit is needed urgently - changing the nozzle will also help. The total service life of the gun depends specifically on the condition of this unit (not counting the heater).
Power regulator
The presence of a function for controlling the melting temperature of the rod will be appreciated by those who do not have it on their pistol. It will melt everything at the same rate, regardless of the type of plastic charged. And an advanced gun with speed control is convenient because it allows you to save energy and vary the modes in relation to the characteristics of the glue stick.
Nozzle type
Most guns are equipped with standard light alloy nozzles coated with silicone. Options with different spout lengths are available to ensure ease of use for superficial and deep application of glue. The working diameter of the rod corresponds to a certain passage value for the glue in the nozzle, as well as the dimensions and standard thread size for mounting on the gun. It will not be possible to place a nozzle from a “small” unit on a “large” one. In the simplest models of pistols, the spouts are made non-removable and connected to the heating chamber.
Safety instructions for use
The device operates on mains power, and electric current always poses a health hazard. A gun is, first and foremost, a heating device. Temperatures can reach up to 200 °C. Glue is also an energy-intensive substance. It cannot cool down instantly. In case of contact with skin, burns are inevitable. When performing certain operations where contact with heated polymer is possible, it is necessary to wear gloves, ensuring the safety of your hands.
Lifehack. During a break, between individual operations, the glue gun is left on the stand with the nozzle down, under which you can put a piece of paper, a piece of fabric, which after work can be thrown away with the remaining glue. The working surface of the stand will remain clean. The glue will not get on the floor or table.
During operation, do not reach into the body with metal objects to remove glue or correct the position of the rod. Do not touch the nozzle during operation. The very same safety precautions when working with glue are not regulated, with the exception of the heating period. When cooled, it is completely harmless, therefore it is allowed for the manufacture of interior elements and children's toys.
What can you glue with a hot glue gun?
The popularity of the tool is explained by the lightness of the design and the ability to reliably fix dissimilar surfaces together. Glue guns are used by children at school, construction workers and repair specialists. Using a glue gun, you can quite easily pack various goods without spending a lot of time and resources.
Reviews from owners of such a tool allow us to conclude that the tool is easy to use. The low price of consumables is another advantage of such a tool.
Today, the use of hot-melt adhesive is allowed when working with glass, rubber, plastic and wooden surfaces. The composition glues well various fabrics, foam, ceramic, metal and cardboard materials. It is impossible to fix only concrete and plaster with such glue.
At the same time, the dimensions of pistols and consumables for them differ depending on the purpose of use. For home use, small-sized pistols with 7 mm rods are suitable. Construction and repair activities will require the use of a more powerful tool, filled with rods with a diameter of 11 millimeters.
The length of the rods can be from 40 to 200 millimeters. There is no color division of the adhesive composition. Depending on the purpose, the melting temperature of the consumable material can vary from 100 to 200 degrees.
Typically, clear white refills are the most versatile. The use of such materials is suitable for gluing any surfaces. The same white materials, but only opaque, are used for gluing glass and metal surfaces. Black compositions are used for sealing or insulation. Yellow rods are best suited for working with wood, as well as paper and cardboard materials.
Problems and their solutions
Over time, some parts wear out. Most often this is the plastic from which the trigger, the advance mechanism and the o-rings in the feed coupling are made. Being in close proximity to the heating chamber, over time they lose elasticity, crack, and crumble. You can replace them yourself by cutting new seals from silicone or heat-resistant rubber. Then the glue under the pressure of the rod will again come out through the nozzles, and not through the resulting gaps or cracks into the gun body.
The nozzles need to be cleaned regularly. If the glue cannot be removed in a cold state, then the device is heated and excess polymer is removed using rags, thick paper, or cardboard. The device is inexpensive, so repairing it with replacement parts is unprofitable. The most vulnerable parts of the device are the trigger and the rod feed mechanism. During operation, the hot glue in the gun is quite mobile, so you should not press too hard on the trigger. You can damage it, or create excessive pressure in the heating chamber, which will lead to accelerated wear of the seals.
Important points when using
The glue stick must be inserted into the gun carefully, ensuring that it is grasped with an elastic band. A nozzle passage clogged with frozen glue is the cause of failures and breakdowns of guns. Therefore, you should develop the habit of cleaning the nozzles after finishing work. When the gun is not in use, it must be turned off. In models with a toggle switch, this action is performed by pressing a key; in conventional models, the plug is removed from the socket. The position of the pistol in the idle position is with the nose down, on a special stand and nothing else.
How to change the color of the rod correctly
Often during operation it becomes necessary to replace the rod. For example, to change the color of glue for decorative finishing. To do this, turn on the device. After heating, carefully remove the rod. Insert the desired one. After the time recommended to achieve the required temperature has been maintained, the remnants of the old rod are squeezed out of the nozzle until new glue appears. It is advisable to refill with a rod of a similar brand. Then the operating mode will remain the same, and there will be no noticeable difference in texture on the finished product. You can change not only the color of the glue. You can install a rod with filler to create an original design.
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.
Direct operation of the glue gun
In fact, the rod does not contain adhesives. Adhesive qualities appear only when heated. It is a waterproof polymer that, in its liquid state, can adhere to almost any surface. This is achieved with the help of a pistol. The inserted rod is brought to the melting temperature in the heating chamber and extruded through the nozzle onto the part. The mode depends on the power of the device and the brand of glue.
Preparation time for low temperature rods is about 2 minutes. Then the glue is applied to the surface. The second part is pressed and held in this position until it sets. The time may increase if a significant amount of glue is used. If it is a small drop, then a few seconds are enough. If several grams are applied, then the structure needs to be kept for up to 2 minutes. Complete cooling and set of operational characteristics occurs in approximately 5 minutes.
Application area
To solve certain problems, rods are produced in both a wide range of shades and transparent ones. This is very convenient for those who love handicrafts. Having selected the desired color, the product will look solid, no traces of glue will be visible. Models of filled rods have appeared.
For example, glitter and mother-of-pearl are added to the mass. The glue itself becomes a decorative element of the product, part of the composition. Thermal gun can be used in construction and repair. However, it is worth remembering that setting time is limited. After application, it is advisable to fix the part in place in the first few seconds.
There are also some restrictions. For example, where heavy loads are expected, it is not recommended to use a hot-melt adhesive connection; it is not designed for this.
You can glue decorative elements to shoes, but the soles will not last long. Do not use a gun to secure power structures during construction and repairs. It is not recommended to apply glue to plasters and putties without first treating them with primers and paints.
Sealing and insulation of seams
During operation, cracks and gaps appear in various structures. They appear in window and door systems, openings, and shafts. Often such a defect occurs in finishing materials. In addition to the untidy appearance, there are also undesirable consequences in the form of drafts and further destruction of the structure.
If there are no building mixtures or sealants at home, but you have a glue gun, then you can quickly solve this problem. With its help, you can easily make the desired connection and seal the seams. It is recommended to purchase special black or gray rods for this work. But first you need to clarify whether the gun is capable of maintaining the required temperature.
Video: Glue gun - why and how
The edges of the crack are cleaned of debris, foreign substances, and degreased. Then, after heating the gun for the required time according to the instructions, fill the seam. The result is reliable, durable insulation.
After cooling, you can cut off excess glue with a knife. The connection is not afraid of moisture, is not subject to corrosion, and will not emit substances harmful to health, so it can be used both in utility rooms, and in kitchens and children's rooms.
Tile
What to do when a tile falls off at home? You can get to the nearest hardware store and buy the required mixture. But it is usually sold in large packages and most of it will probably simply disappear. Repairs can be made with a glue gun.
Before starting work, you need to remove all remaining mixture from the tiles and the seat. It is advisable to do this even with a small margin, so that the tiles fall through with a small gap, no more than 1 mm.
Before applying the glue, it is recommended to warm the part with a hairdryer, and after installing it in place, hold it in the desired position for 2-5 minutes
Furniture
The interior will lose greatly if any element is broken or missing altogether. Front parts of furniture often fail during use. Decorative decorations and overlays can be restored with hot glue. There is no need to fix the glass with a gun.
The operating temperature of the glue is from 105 °C to 200 °C. These are critical values for glass; it may crack or break. A wooden surface easily tolerates this temperature.
Excess glue can be easily removed from it later. It is not recommended to glue load-bearing structures and functional mechanisms of furniture. The loads are too great and the glue cannot withstand them.
Glue sticks for heat gun
Glue guns differ not only in appearance, body size and different operating parameters, but also in the diameter of the glue stick (7 or 11 mm). A number of models work with rods with a diameter of 7 mm, while others use rods with a diameter of 11 mm.
For small decorative sewing and needlework work, it is better to use guns designed for glue sticks with a diameter of 7 mm. Firstly, the body size of such a gun will be smaller and more compact, and secondly, the glue will heat up faster. Accordingly, its price will be significantly lower than a pistol intended for professional installation and construction work.
Glue sticks intended for needlework are available not only colorless, but also colored. This allows you to glue rhinestones and jewelry without traces of the glued area. There are also special rods with various types of fillers, such as glitter. Consider all this when purchasing a gun and rods for it.
