The most common mistake when choosing an adhesive is looking only at the price per kilo. What really matters is the cost per part or per square metre.
Basic formula
Cost per part = Coat weight (g/m²) × Bonded area (m²) × Price per kg / 1000
For example, for a part with 0.5 m² bonded at 120 g/m² using an adhesive at 100 per kg, the cost is 120 × 0.5 × 100 / 1000 = 6.
The effect of coat weight
A more expensive but more efficient adhesive can give the same strength at a lower coat weight. PUR hot melts cost more per kilo than EVA, but often work at half the coat weight.
| Product | Price/kg | Coat weight | Cost/m² |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adhesive A | 80 | 200 g/m² | 16.0 |
| Adhesive B | 140 | 80 g/m² | 11.2 |
(Example figures for illustration.)
Hidden costs
- Scrap: Parts that delaminate, are reworked or returned.
- Line speed: Shorter press or cure times mean more output.
- Energy: Low-temperature adhesives save energy.
- Cleaning and downtime: Systems needing frequent cleaning cost production time.
Conclusion
For a fair comparison, measure the actual coat weight in a trial, record the scrap rate and consider line speed together. Our technical team can run this calculation with you.
Need support with your application?Our technical team supports product selection and line trials.
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