Single Component Metering & Dispensing Systems Comparison

Successfully applying a one component (1K) sealant or adhesive relies on using the correct industrial equipment. This comparison of single component metering systems will help you find the best solution for your manufacturing needs.

What Works Best for Your 1K Application?

When evaluating the best single component metering solution for one component sealant or adhesive applications, it’s important to consider these factors:

1K Comparison Chart

Graco single component metering systems provide precision dispensing control of one component sealants and adhesives. Each product provides a unique solution to fit a range of application challenges.

 

Precision Shot Meter (PSM)


 

Precision Continuous Flow (PCF) System


E-Flo iQ System

Continuous Fluid Delivery
Intermitant Fluid Delivery
Low-viscosity or Pourable Materials
High-viscosity or Non-flow Materials
Minimum Flow Rate*1.2 cc/min.6 cc/min.10 cc/min.
End Effector Weight24 to 35 lbs (11-16 kg)0.11 lbs (<0.5 kg)0.11 lbs (<0.5 kg)
Fluid Temperature RangeAmbient - 158˚F (70˚C) with heating optionAmbient - 400˚F (204˚C)Ambient - 158˚F (70˚C)
Hot Melt Materials**
Closed Loop Flow Control
Metering PrinciplePositive DisplacementFluid Regulator & FlowPositive Displacement
Maximum Fluid Pressure1200 to 3000 psi4500 psi4000 psi
Feed SystemSupply PumpSupply PumpDedicated

*Minimum flow rate varies, based on material viscosity.

**Hot melt materials require pairing a PCF with Therm-O-Flow Hot Melt Supply.

System features and performance can vary depending on the material and application. Contact our experts for a recommendation suited to your production process.

Shot Size and Flow Rate

One of the first things to investigate is the shot size and flow rate. Some applications require small amounts of adhesive, weighing only a gram. Others may require a continuous flow of several gallons per minute.

  • The Precision Shot Meter (PSM), with its servo motor control and high precision meter, ensures +/- 1 percent shot repeatability. On-demand flow control synchronizes dispense rates with automation speeds. PSM configurations fit on robot arms and automated dispensing platforms to deliver maximum shot sizes of 25 ccs, 50 ccs or 100 ccs of one component material. The PSM excels at electronics and automotive component applications and comes with standard or high wear coatings.
  • The Precision Continuous Flow (PCF) system, with its closed loop pressure and flow control, can dispense from very small shot sizes to large amounts of one component material. Its advanced algorithms quickly adjust flow rates, providing consistent, continuous flow to dispense very small shot sizes without having to wait for the meter to refill. The automatic adjustments make PCF a good solution when you need accurate control with no limitation on shot size.
  • The E-Flo iQ uses a servo-driven electric motor to drive a fixed volume piston pump, metering from the drum. This means you can maintain optimal flow control without an external metering device. Smart pump changeover control eliminates pressure winks and leads to smooth and consistent pressure and flow at the outlet. This makes the E-Flo iQ a good solution for robotic application at low to high flow rates.

Material Properties

One of the most important factors to consider is which type of technology is most compatible with the one component fluid that will be pumped through the system.

  • The Precision Shot Meter (PSM) has a first-in-first-out fluid path that eliminates dead zones and downtime due to clogged valves. This makes it great for thicker materials. If your manufacturing requirements involve abrasive or warm melt material, consider these PSM options:
    • Ultra wear resistant coating withstands abrasive and viscous material.
    • Heating function brings material temperature up to 70°C (158°F).
  • The Precision Continuous Flow (PCF) system is a versatile solution for thicker materials. It can withstand a variety of non-thermally conductive fillers, whether they are fragile (balloons) or abrasive. It can also heat the material.
  • The E-Flo iQ is compatible with medium to high material viscosities and chemistries, including some filled materials. It has a reduced number of wetted components and a modular dispense valve.

Manufacturing Style

The physical layout of the manufacturing cell and system configuration can influence the product that works best for the application.

  • The Precision Shot Meter (PSM) has a small size and low mass made for stand-alone benchtop and automated applications. Simple communication protocols provide seamless integration with robots, automated work cells, and data-tracking systems
  • The Precision Continuous Flow (PCF) system includes controls that can be mounted as far away from the fluid panel as needed, offering flexible integration options for large work cells, for example, in automotive applications. Generally, the control center is mounted onto the cage of a robotic cell. The PCF’s simple configuration and compact size should be considered when weighing a robot’s payload capabilities.
  • The E-Flo iQ meters directly from the pail or drum. The dispense valve mounts directly to the end effector in these ways: stationary mount, robot mount, or gentry system. The self-contained electric drive, fluid controls and pump simplify installation and drastically reduce robot payload requirements, making the E-Flo iQ well-suited for automated factory settings.

 

Contact a 1K Expert

Specifying the right process for one component sealants and adhesives can be challenging. The team at Graco is here for you, with the knowhow needed for reliable, accurate, and safe application in any industry.

Contact us to find the right precision metering for your single component applications.

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