Sticky Situation: Is Tape or Glue Best for your Case Packing Application?
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Introduction
When it comes to case packing operations, one early decision manufacturers face is how to seal their cases: with tape or glue? Each option comes with its own set of benefits and trade-offs. Whether you're focused on reducing downtime, cutting operational costs, or enhancing the durability of your packaging, understanding the differences between tape and glue is crucial. In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both systems to help you determine which solution is the right fit for your production line.
Tape Case Sealing
Tape is a widely used solution that applies to the major flaps of cases via a tape head and folding rail system after the minor flaps are closed. Common in slower-speed operations, tape systems are simple yet effective, offering versatility and ease of maintenance.
How Tape Works
Tape is applied horizontally or vertically based on packer configuration.
A tape head and folding rail system secure the major flaps.
Sensors can be included to monitor tape levels, application errors, or broken tape strands.
Advantages of Tape
Lower capital costs compared to glue systems.
Reduced maintenance and fewer spare parts.
Provides environmental sealing of flap seams (no exposed gap).
No need for PPE when changing tape - no burn risk.
Decorative tape options available for branding or marketing purposes.
Manual tape application is simple if the case packer is offline.
Does not require compressed air.
Creates a sealed surface - beneficial is cases are handled by vacuum downstream.
Disadvantages of Tape
Downtime during tape head replacements.
Less efficient on high-speed lines exceeding 20 cases per minute.
Less consistent sealing quality compared to glue.
Glue Case Sealing
Glue systems are commonly favored in high-speed operations, where throughput and quality are critical. These systems melt adhesive into a viscous form and deliver it to glue guns via heated hoses, applying glue to the flaps before compressing them for sealing.
How Glue Works
Glue is applied horizontally or vertically, like tape.
Hot melt adhesive is dispensed via solenoid-controlled glue guns.
A compression section creates a strong bond between major and minor flaps.
Programmable HMI's adjust glue bead patterns and lengths for various applications.
Advantages of Glue
Handles high-speed operations of over 20 cases per minute.
Glue is 50-75% less expensive than packaging tape.
Provides greater structural strength for heavy or high-value packages.
Easier for end uses to open without tools.
Professional, seamless appearance.
Glue tanks can be refilled without stopping the line.
Supports a wider variety of adhesives and glue gun configurations.
Disadvantages of Glue
Higher upfront capital investment.
Requires compressed air.
Burn risks require proper standards and PPE adherence.
More components to maintain, including solenoids and glue guns.
Operators require additional training in comparison to changing tape rolls.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of glue system is necessary.
There is a lengthy warm up period required to start a system, and charring is possible is left long periods powered on without use.
Conclusion
Choosing between tape and glue for case sealing is more than just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one. Tape systems offer lower upfront costs, simplicity, and flexibility, making them well-suited for lower-speed or variable production environments. Meanwhile, glue systems shine in high-speed operations, delivering cost savings on materials and providing a stronger, cleaner finish, but at the cost of higher capital and maintenance requirements.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your production speed, packaging needs, and long-term operational goals. By understanding these trade-offs, you’ll be better equipped to optimize your case packing line and improve overall efficiency.
Still unsure which case sealing method fits your operation? Contact our packaging specialists for a free consultation today.
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