Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Manufacturers And Their Products

Before you get in touch with pressure sensitive adhesive manufacturers, we recommend getting familiar with the product itself. Enjoy these tips from Conversion Technologies International!

What is a pressure sensitive adhesive?

A pressure sensitive adhesive differentiates itself from other adhesives in that it’s activated by pressure. The adhesive won’t adhere to a surface until you apply that pressure. This means the adhesive lacks the need for an “extra” curing process.

Many other adhesives require the application of additional hot or cool air to “seal” the adhesive to the surface. PSAs actually make the process a little simpler. Although adhesive technologies vary, PSAs maintain a few key similarities. They’re often easier to transport and apply. They also tend to speed up the manufacturing process.

However, whether that applies to your situation depends heavily on what you’re trying to accomplish and the type of adhesive you’re working with. The different types of pressure sensitive adhesives include (but are not limited to):

• Silicone PSAs. Based on silicone, these adhesives are highly heat resistant, withstanding temperatures ranging from 100 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. They work well with materials that have low surface energy. Additionally, if the adhesive requires removal at a later time, you can do so easily without leaving extra residue.
• Rubber-based PSAs. These adhesives come in natural and synthetic forms. They’re naturally tacky from the start, and they’re quite cost-effective. Though they bond well to many different surfaces, they’re less resistant to temperature variations, as well as solvents and UV rays.
• Acrylic PSAs. With an acrylic base, this type of adhesive resists chemicals, UV rays, and the problems that come with aging. They last for the long term, which is why the auto industry frequently relies on them.
• Polyurethane adhesives. One of the big reasons why so many industrial adhesive manufacturers prefer this option is that it’s highly tackified, durable, and flexible. They’re also quite shock-resistant.

Is pressure sensitive adhesive permanent?

The permanency of pressure sensitive adhesives depends on the type and your goals. One of the benefits of PSAs is that they can offer a degree of flexibility. This allows you to remove or rearrange the adhesive without residue or damage.

But you don’t have to trade permanence in exchange for flexibility. An experienced adhesive company can guide you as you decide between different options. The key components of PSAs include their natural tackiness. Otherwise, they can function quite differently, depending on conditions and purpose.

Examples of less permanent pressure sensitive adhesive technologies include things like sticky notes, certain labels, and decals. Think of a bumper sticker or wall decal. Some peel better than others. For example, a product like a bumper sticker isn’t necessarily meant to be truly permanent, but you do want it to stick for a good while. In addition, we require a product like that to withstand the elements. Comparatively, a sticky note doesn’t need to last long, with a major concern being a lack of residue.

On the other hand, the permanent PSAs increase their bonding power over time. This does mean they’re less flexible and more difficult to remove. If it’s possible to do so, we often need to use special methods to prevent residue. But most of the time, removing a permanent adhesive results in damage to the surface. The strength of the bond is stronger than the surface material. It’s meant to last for the long term.

How long does pressure-sensitive adhesive last?

Similarly to the question of whether or not PSAs are permanent—it depends. A product like a sticky note obviously won’t last longer than a few days at most if disturbed. Whereas other types of PSAs last for years, or indefinitely.

Broadly, unused PSAs last anywhere from one to five years on average. Permanent PSAs can last up to decades, typically. Semi-permanent bonds can last anywhere from months to years.

Keep in mind that some PSAs take time to fully bond to a surface. Acrylic PSAs, for example, can take as long as 24 to 72 hours to fully bond to a surface. Pressure sensitive adhesive manufacturers can help guide you as you seek out a product that best suits your needs—and your timeline.

Should I buy an adhesive coating machine?

If you need a supply of pressure sensitive adhesive, you don’t necessarily need to buy an adhesive coating machine. In this day and age, it’s easier than ever to work with industry adhesive suppliers. While some suppliers simply sell finished products, it’s often easier and more flexible to work with pressure sensitive adhesive manufacturers.

Unlike those that act as adhesive distributors only, manufacturers produce the adhesive. This means they can customize the product to fit your specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about what working with pressure sensitive adhesive manufacturers looks like? Check it out!

Do pressure sensitive adhesive manufacturers count as third parties?

Yes. When working with a separate adhesive manufacturer, you will be outsourcing. However, this doesn’t mean giving up input. A good third party manufacturer acts as your partner, not your director.

Do pressure sensitive adhesive manufacturers only produce PSAs?

Not necessarily. While some companies specialize in specific adhesive solutions, others work more broadly. This allows you flexibility. If you need something other than a PSA (like hot melt adhesives, for example), you may be able to source those products from the same manufacturer!

How do I select a good manufacturer?

We recommend going through a process of trial and error. Consult with a manufacturer with honest questions. Lay out all your needs. Ask about past client stories—including success stories.

Start by asking CTI! Call us at 419-924-5566 or contact us here. Let’s start today.