Glue Lap Excellence: Choosing the Best Contact and Non-Contact Extrusion Adhesives for HHS and Valco Systems
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
When it comes to case sealing and carton closing, the strength of your glue lap can make or break your entire packaging line, sometimes literally. Manufacturers running HHS and Valco adhesive application systems know that a poorly matched adhesive doesn't just create weak seals; it leads to production downtime, wasted product, and dissatisfied customers. Choosing between contact and non-contact extrusion adhesives is one of the most important decisions a packaging operation will make, and getting it right requires understanding both the equipment and the materials working together.
In this article, we'll break down what glue lap excellence really means, compare contact and non-contact extrusion adhesive options, and explain how to select the right formulation for your HHS or Valco system.
What Is Glue Lap Excellence, and Why Does It Matter?
"Glue lap" refers to the overlapping section of a case or carton where adhesive is applied to create a secure seal. Achieving glue lap excellence means consistent adhesive coverage, strong bond strength, fast set times, and minimal waste, all while keeping your line running at full speed. For high-volume operations, even small inconsistencies in adhesive application can multiply into significant losses over a single shift.
This is where the choice between contact and non-contact extrusion adhesive application becomes critical, especially when working with precision equipment like HHS and Valco dispensing systems.
Contact Extrusion Adhesives: Precision Through Direct Application
Contact extrusion applies adhesive through a nozzle or die that physically touches, or nearly touches, the substrate as it moves along the line. This method is prized for its accuracy and control, making it ideal for applications requiring tight, consistent bead placement.
Benefits of contact extrusion include:
● Highly consistent bead width and pattern
● Reduced adhesive waste due to controlled application
● Strong performance on uneven or textured board surfaces
● Lower risk of overspray or misting
Contact systems tend to work exceptionally well in operations where board quality varies or where precise placement is non-negotiable, such as food-grade packaging or products requiring tamper-evident seals.
Non-Contact Extrusion Adhesives: Speed and Flexibility
Non-contact extrusion, by comparison, applies adhesive from a small distance above the substrate, allowing for higher line speeds and greater flexibility with varying case sizes and shapes. Because the nozzle doesn't touch the board, there's less mechanical wear on equipment and reduced risk of adhesive buildup on application heads.
Benefits of non-contact extrusion include:
● Higher-speed application suited to fast-moving lines
● Reduced maintenance from nozzle contact and debris buildup
● Greater versatility across box sizes and configurations
● Simplified changeovers between product runs
For operations prioritizing throughput and flexibility over pinpoint bead placement, non-contact systems paired with the right adhesive formulation often deliver the best return on investment.
Matching Adhesive Chemistry to Your HHS or Valco System
As a general rule, HHS systems are designed for non-contact extrusion, while Valco systems are designed for contact application.
For your HHS line, we recommend AQUENCE® FB 7007MUV . For your Valco system, a product such as Corrugating 2100 is an ideal choice.
That said, both contact and non-contact application methods can technically be used with either system. While HHS and Valco equipment are both engineered for precise adhesive application, overall performance ultimately depends on selecting the right adhesive formulation.
When evaluating an adhesive for either system, the key factors to consider include:
Open time — How long the adhesive remains tacky before setting affects your ability to accommodate line speed variations.
Set speed — Faster set times reduce case rework and improve throughput but must be balanced against bond strength requirements.
Viscosity — Adhesive viscosity must align with your nozzle configuration, whether contact or non-contact, to avoid stringing, misting, or inconsistent bead formation.
Temperature tolerance — Cold storage, humid environments, or high-heat facilities all demand adhesives engineered to perform reliably under those specific conditions.
Substrate compatibility — Recycled board, coated stock, and varying fiber densities all interact differently with adhesive chemistries.
Working with an adhesive partner who understands both your equipment and your production environment is essential. The best-performing adhesive on paper won't deliver results if it isn't calibrated to your specific HHS or Valco configuration.
Best Practices for Long-Term Glue Lap Performance
To maintain consistent glue lap quality over time, consider these best practices:
● Schedule regular nozzle and system maintenance to prevent adhesive buildup and drift in application accuracy.
● Monitor adhesive temperature closely, as even small fluctuations can affect open time and bond strength.
● Test new adhesive formulations under real production conditions, not just in controlled lab environments.
● Keep detailed records of line speed, adhesive usage, and seal failure rates to identify patterns before they become costly problems.
Conclusion
Choosing between contact and non-contact extrusion adhesives isn't a one-size-fits-all decision, it depends on your line speed, substrate variability, equipment configuration, and production goals. Whether you're running an HHS system prioritizing precision or a Valco setup built for speed and flexibility, the right adhesive formulation is the difference between reliable, efficient production and costly downtime.
Ready to optimize your glue lap performance? Lanco Adhesives specializes in high-performance contact and non-contact extrusion adhesives engineered specifically for HHS and Valco systems. Our team works directly with your production environment to recommend the ideal formulation for your equipment, substrates, and line speeds. Contact us today to request a sample or speak with an adhesive specialist about upgrading your packaging line's performance.
