High-performance application technology for hotmelt UV acrylates
What are hotmelt UV acrylates?
Hotmelt UV acrylates represent a modern class of hotmelt adhesives that combine the advantages of traditional hotmelts (solvent-free, fast processing) with targeted cross-linking via UV radiation. They are primarily used as pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) and are becoming increasingly important in industrial applications, as they are more sustainable, environmentally friendly and efficient than solvent- or water-based systems.
SM Klebetechnik develops application technologies specifically tailored to hotmelt UV acrylates for demanding industrial processes. These high-performance systems enable precise process control, high production speeds and flexible integration into modern production facilities.
How do UV acrylates work (chemical and physical principles)?
Hotmelt UV acrylates are based on oligomeric or polymeric acrylates, which are first melted thermally and then applied. The final adhesive properties are achieved through UV-induced cross-linking.
Cross-linking is achieved through UV-C radiation, which creates covalent bonds between the acrylate chains, giving the adhesive its final properties. The process ensures short reaction times whilst maintaining a high degree of control.
What technology can be used to process hotmelt UV acrylates?
SM Klebetechnik offers high-performance application systems for processing modern hotmelt UV acrylates. The systems enable precise control of all process parameters – from melting to application.
The processing of hotmelt UV acrylates typically involves three main steps:
1. Melting and conveying
The UV acrylate hotmelt adhesive is melted homogeneously at processing temperatures of approx. 120–150 °C and conveyed as a viscous melt in a gentle manner, as required.
GP98 – 130-litre tank melter
2. Precise adhesive application
Innovative application technologies for demanding coating processes
Depending on the product, substrate and process requirements, SM Klebetechnik offers a wide range of application technologies. Contactless methods open up new possibilities in terms of quality, flexibility and process efficiency.
KC0520 – Curtain Coat – contactless coating
Non-contact processes – maximum precision without material contact
Contact processes – tried-and-tested technologies for reliable processes
KM0515 – flat application head for contact coating
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More InformationA technological edge through co-extrusion
A key unique selling point is SM Klebetechnik’s specially developed co-extrusion nozzles. These enable the simultaneous application of two different adhesives within a single process. For example, permanent and ‘wash-off’ adhesives can be specifically combined – an ideal solution for modern, recycling-friendly labelling concepts.
Your benefits at a glance:
3. In-line UV-curing
This is followed by immediate curing using UV radiation, for example via medium-pressure mercury lamps or innovative LED-UV lamps. Curing takes place inline and without additional drying sections – ensuring maximum process efficiency and high production speeds.
In which industrial sectors are hotmelt UV acrylates used?
Thanks to their versatile properties, hotmelt UV acrylates are used in numerous industrial sectors:
- Permanent and removable labels
- „No-Label-Look“ applications for PET or glass bottles
- Recyclable adhesive systems
- Beverage & Food, Home and Personal Care, Tobacco
Adhesive tapes and films
- Engineering adhesive tapes (single- and double-sided)
- High-performance laminates
- Pressure-sensitive adhesive systems
Medicine and healthcare
- Plasters and medical adhesive tapes
- Skin-friendly and biocompatible applications
Automotive and Construction Industries
- Interior bonding
- Technical films and sealing systems
- Functional seals in the construction sector
Other implementations
- Graphics and printing industry
- Electronics and battery production
- Safety and special applications
What are the advantages of using hotmelt UV acrylates?
The combination of modern adhesive chemistry and high-performance application technology offers numerous advantages for industrial production processes:
Curtain coat application in use
Conclusion: Future-proof processing technology from SM Klebetechnik
Hotmelt UV acrylates are among the pioneering adhesive technologies for modern industrial applications. It is particularly the combination of sustainability, high performance and flexible process integration that makes these systems attractive to numerous industries.
SM Klebetechnik develops innovative application and coating solutions for the precise processing of hotmelt UV acrylates. The focus is on maximum process stability, high efficiency and customisable technologies tailored to specific customer requirements.
Drawing on many years of experience in adhesive application technology, SM Klebetechnik offers high-performance solutions for modern production processes – ranging from standard applications to highly specialised custom solutions.
Have we got you interested?
Phone us on +49 (0) 24 52 / 91 72-0 or email us at info@sm-klebetechnik.de – we will be happy to advise you!
About SM Klebetechnik
Our machines for hot melt processing and coating tasks are used successfully in the automotive, mechanical engineering, graphic arts and adhesive tape industries, as well as in the furniture, construction, wood and textile industries. Our units are also integrated into production systems at adhesive and sealant manufacturers and compounders. In our certified, owner-managed company, over 70 employees are committed to the needs of our customers every day.
