Hot melt storage and tank management: how to prevent charring

Charred adhesive, blocked nozzles and rising consumption. Practical advice on storing hot melt, holding it in the tank and managing temperature.

Hot melts are robust products, but poor storage and tank management reduce performance and raise maintenance costs.

Storage

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Recommended storage temperature is usually 5–30 °C.
  • Keep opened granules closed; dust and foreign matter must not enter the tank.
  • Always store PUR in its original moisture-tight packaging.
  • Use first-in, first-out and check shelf life on the data sheet.

Tank management

Charring happens when adhesive is held hot in contact with oxygen for too long. Charred particles block nozzles and leave black specks in the glue line.

Measures:

  1. Little and often: top up regularly according to consumption instead of filling the tank completely, so residence time is shorter.
  2. Correct temperature: never exceed the data-sheet maximum.
  3. Standby mode: lower the tank temperature during breaks and stoppages.
  4. Use the lid: keep the tank closed to limit oxygen contact.
  5. Regular cleaning: clean tank and filters at planned intervals.

A low-char alternative

PO (polyolefin) hot melts have far better oxidative stability than EVA thanks to a narrow molecular weight distribution. Switching to PO can sharply reduce maintenance on lines with charring problems.

Monitor consumption

Measure coat weight regularly. Charred adhesive or adhesive at the wrong temperature is often applied more heavily to maintain quality, which is a hidden cost.

Let's analyse your line's adhesive efficiency together.

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