General Information

In order to decide on the best adhesive delivery system for your facility, it is important to first understand the function of these systems and the differences between them. Adhesive delivery systems are simply a method of delivering adhesive from the container to the exit point or applicator. Applicators can include spray guns (both manual and automatic) and roll coaters.

There are three basic methods available:

• Gravity
• Pressure
• Pump

Simalfa has experience in ALL 3 methods and can supply whichever system is most suitable for the situation. We encourage clients to consult with our staff and rely on our expertise to help make the best decision for each installation. Below is a brief description listing both the benefits and limitations of each system.

Gravity

Uses gravity to supply adhesive to the exit point or applicator.

Simalfa has been granted patents and has patents pending on gravity feeding adhesives. Our system is known as the Simalfa Free Flowing System. Greater than 75% of our customers utilize this system.

(US Patents: 5868319 + 6042024 Canadian Patent: 2292219)

Benefits

• Low start up cost.
• Simple to set up, install, and use.
• System is elevated off the production floor to save space.
• Consists of 3 basic parts: Adhesive, hose / valve system, and applicator.
• Cartridge based corrugated container is easy to recycle.
• No need to transfer adhesive from one container to another (avoids spills, contamination, + waste).
• No maintenance.
• Can be set up for multiple application areas.

Limitations

• Can be limited by distance (contact us to determine).
• Can be limited by low ceiling height.
• Can be limited by areas hard to reach with a forklift (if using larger containers).

Pressure

Uses a pressurized container with air (head pressure) to deliver adhesive to the exit point or applicator.

SIMALFA offers 2 types of pressurized systems. For our larger containers, we offer Simalfa Easy Flow. For our smaller containers, we offer our cartridge based Simalfa Pressure Cube.

Benefits

• Delivers adhesive over long horizontal distances.
• Accommodates low ceiling heights.
• Accommodates areas hard to reach with a forklift.
• Can be set up for multiple application areas.
• Simalfa Pressure Cube is a cartridge based system and does not require material transfer.

Limitations

• System sits on the floor.
• Requires additional equipment investment.
• Requires increased maintenance with a detailed contingency plan for system repair and failure.
• Requires more technical understanding of the system (more complicated than gravity feed).
• Many systems require transfer of the adhesive into the pressurized container (can cause spills, contamination).

Pump

Uses a dual diaphragm pump to deliver adhesive to the exit point or applicator.

These systems are most commonly utilized by clients who already own a pump, have experience with its operation, and have the desire to continue using it.

Benefits

• Able to deliver adhesive over long distances.
• Able to accommodate low ceiling heights.
• Able to accommodate areas hard to reach with a forklift.
• Can be set up for multiple application areas.

Limitations

• System sits on the floor.
• Requires substantial equipment investment.
• Requires substantial maintenance with a detailed contingency plan for system repair and failure.
• Requires substantial technical expertise of the system over that of gravity or pressure.