In this article, you’ll learn:
- How your substrates affect which glue will work best
- Why does your equipment setup impact glue performance
- What production needs to consider when evaluating options
- The “5 P’s” framework for selecting the right glue
How to choose not just the best glue, but also the best vendor for your process
The glue you choose can have a major impact on your production efficiency, product quality, and overall costs. Yet many manufacturers underestimate just how much glue selection matters—until a problem arises. A poor glue fit can cause equipment clogs, bonding failures, or wasted materials that cost time and money.
At LD Davis, we’ve helped manufacturers with packaging, bookbinding, woodworking, and more find glues that keep their operations running smoothly. The truth is: glues are never one-size-fits-all. That’s why we start every new project by asking detailed questions to fully understand your process before making a recommendation.
Questions to Ask When Choosing an glue
Here are the key questions our technical team asks when working with new leads:
- What are you gluing and what are your substrates? The material you’re bonding dictates which glue will succeed. For instance, uncoated paper bonds are different from glossy, UV-coated substrates and film laminate. A bookbinding manufacturer may need a slow-setting glue for durability, while a packaging company may require a fast-tack option for high-speed lines. Sharing photos or videos of your product helps us identify the best fit faster.
- What type of glue are you looking for? Are you considering hot melt, water-based, or protein/jelly glue? Each has unique benefits. Here’s a breakdown of when to use water-based vs. hot melt glues.
- What type of equipment will you be using, and how fast is it running? A slow manual application has very different needs than a high-speed automated line. glues must match your equipment to avoid issues like stringing or poor set times.
- Do you have a target price point in mind? While price is important, the lowest-cost adhesive isn’t always the most effective long-term solution. Price and cost are not the same thing—poor adhesive performance can lead to wasted materials, production inefficiencies, and higher overall expenses. What may seem cheapest per pound often ends up being the most costly in the long run.
- If liquid glue is required, what viscosity do you need? Viscosity, or thickness, plays a big role in how smoothly glue runs through your machinery. Too thin, and it won’t hold; too thick, and it can clog your system.
The 5 P’s of Choosing the Right Glue Vendor
Beyond the glue itself, your choice of supplier impacts your long-term success. At LD Davis, we use the 5 P’s framework to guide every client relationship:
- Process – A good vendor won’t just sell glue; they’ll analyze your substrates, equipment, and goals. Our lab runs application tests to ensure the right match before making a recommendation.
- Product – glues vary widely in capabilities. From freezer-grade options to eco-friendly or FDA-approved glues, we formulate to meet your exact requirements.
- Performance – A high-performing adhesive does more than bond. It runs cleanly, minimizes production stoppages, and maximizes ROI. In our lab, we leverage the latest technology to formulate adhesives tailored to your needs. The right solution should enhance line efficiency while reducing downtime and maintenance.
- Price – Fair, performance-based pricing provides long-term value.
- People – Behind every formula is a team. We see ourselves as partners in your success, providing technical support and guidance every step of the way.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right industrial adhesive goes beyond selecting a product off the shelf. It requires a clear understanding of your substrates, processes, and production goals. With more than 99 years of expertise and hundreds of proven formulations, LD Davis takes a personalized, solutions-focused approach to every project.
If you’re struggling to find the right glue, see how we help manufacturers match glues to their needs.