Solvent-free coating for thermoplastic materials
Hot melt coating applies thermoplastic adhesives in molten form, eliminating solvents, drying ovens, and solvent recovery. The material is heated to fluid state, applied, and solidifies on cooling. This simplifies the line and eliminates solvent-related regulatory concerns.
How hot melt coating works
Material is melted in a heated reservoir and delivered through heated hoses to a slot die or roll applicator at controlled temperature. After application, the web passes through a cooling section where the material solidifies. Cooling rate affects adhesion development and performance properties.
How IMC engineers hot melt systems
The fundamental challenge is thermal management — uniform temperature from melter to applicator, then controlled cooling. IMC systems use zoned temperature control throughout the melt path. The cooling section is designed for the specific solidification behavior of each material. Web handling accounts for substrate thermal expansion.
Applications
- Pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes
- Laminating adhesives
- Sealant films
- Functional coatings where solvent-free processing is required