Glue guns can be purchased in low temperature and high temperature hot-melt versions. Low temperature glue guns heat up to about 120º C and are more applicable where a high temperature is not wanted. High-temperature guns} heat up to approximately 195°C and result in a stronger bond. Also on the market are dual glue guns which feature a switch so that both low and high temperatures can be used for different purposes.
For industrial applications, there are a broad range of heavy duty industrial glue guns available which are designed to optimise production efficiency. These range from high output compressed air industrial glue guns to multi temperature units.
Glue sticks are available in several different diameters for different types and sizes of glue guns. The most common size has a diameter of 11mm. Glue sticks are also available in various lengths, from about 10cm upwards. However, most glue guns will accommodate glue sticks of any length. Hot melt and low temperature glue sticks are available for the different types of glue gun. Hot melt adhesives do not contain any solvents or water. They set when they drop in temperature and this means that they can set quickly.
For industrial applications, different types of glue sticks are available for specialist uses. The most common diameters are 12 and 43mm. For home use, there are only a few types of glue sticks that are available. Glue sticks have different open times, which is the time taken to form a bond. This varies from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Glue guns should be switched on a few minutes before they are used so that the heating element and adhesive can warm up. As the glue stick increases in temperature it melts and then it can be used to bond different materials together. Care should be taken when operating hot glue guns as hot glue can be dangerous.