When talking about hot melt glue, sticks, and dispensers, people tend to think of its arts and crafts applications. While most of us were probably introduced to hot glue during craft time, it is one of the most commonly used adhesives in industrial manufacturing. You’ve probably touched several items held together with hot glue today without even realizing it! Industrial hot melt is one of the most versatile adhesives on the market, and its fast drying time, flexibility, and strength make it a recommended choice for many manufacturers.

Check out the top industrial uses for hot melt glue listed below—a few might surprise you!

What holds the world together? Glue.

Industrial adhesives are the sticky backbone of thousands of companies across a variety of industries, including woodworking, packaging, graphics arts, manufacturing, and more. Depending on what you’re trying to stick together, your choice of glue matters!

Polyurethane reactive glue, or PUR, is a synthetic material used frequently in volume manufacturing and home repair. First invented in the 1930s, polyurethane hot melt was used as a less expensive alternative to rubber but has since been refined and has expanded to be one of the most popular adhesives in manufacturing. So why is PUR adhesive so appealing, and what are the best practices for using PUR hot melt in your production?

 Animal glue, also known as hide glue, bone glue, or protein glue, has been in use for as long as humans have been trying to stick things together. Throughout ancient times and into the modern age, animal glue is still the go-to choice for many professional craftsman, designers, and manufacturers. Despite its long history, many misconceptions persist about the production and use of animal glue.