Distinctions Between Die Coating and Roll Coating for Hot Melt Applications, 2000 Hot Melt Symposium Proceedings

Bob Dages--Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the relative merits of the two coating application methods that are named in the title of the presentation. As noted, my name is Bob Dages, and I work for an OEM of coating and laminating equipment, Kroenert Corporation. In my work, I have noticed a recent increased interest in hot melt coating applications. This surge in interest can be attributed to a few factors:

· First, improvements in the chemistry of UV cross-linked hot melts have expanded the range of applications for this product.

· Second, producers are looking for methods of incrementally expanding capacity or serving niche markets without accepting the large commitments of capital that are typically associated with solution adhesives.

· A third driving force is the manufacturers’ desire for the elimination of thermal inputs and solvent handling considerations from their operations for health, safety and environmental reasons.

As an OEM, we are often asked to recommend the best alternative for a given application or to provide information for the buyer to make an informed decision. Consequently, we often provide the prospective buyer with alternative proposals. From this perspective, we have compiled the information that is presented today.