Which Glue Is Right for You? Hot Melts vs. Water-Based Glues

Hot Melts

Hot melts are versatile, fast-bonding, and cost-effective adhesives used across bookbinding, packaging, product assembly, fulfillment, and more.

Common Forms

• Pellets:
  • 53-027W — versatile pellet hot melt for offset, bond, and coated stocks. Note: UV and some digital stocks using fuser oil may not be compatible.
  • 37-127W — general-purpose pellet hot melt.
• Pillows:
  • 37-016 — formulated for difficult-to-bond matte and coated stocks.
  • 37-127 — light-amber, moderate-to-fast set speeds.

Applications Beyond Bookbinding

• Folding: Fugitive hot melts for temporary bonds.
• Padding: UD8008 supports a range of flexibility and color needs.

Water-Based Glues

Water-based (cold) glues include permanent, fugitive, and pressure-sensitive formulations. Viscosity is measured in cP; non-contact systems typically require thinner adhesives.

Fugitive (Removable)

• UD900: low peel bond for uncoated stocks.
• UD950: high peel bond for coated stocks.
• UD1000: latex-based fugitive adhesive.
• UD153: semi-pressure-sensitive fugitive hot melt.

Permanents for Folders & Laminating

• UD200: contact-applied adhesive.
• UD500: non-contact, low-pressure systems.
• UD550: non-contact for folding cartons.

Related Supplies

Consider PUR adhesive spine glue for superior flexibility and page-pull strength.