The Best Glue for Foam (Bonding Foam to Foam)

Foam is a crucial component in manufacturing, used in everything from upholstery to mattress manufacture and insulation. However, bonding foam can be challenging. It requires appropriate adhesives to ensure precision during assembly and strength and durability for the end product. 

Discover how the correct glue for foam can enhance your manufacturing processes and make your adhesive applications faster, safer, and more cost-effective. 

Challenges With Glue for Foam

Be mindful of the following obstacles to ensure successful adhesive application on foam surfaces.

Managing Reactions:

Foam can be a sensitive substrate, with some adhesives causing a reaction that physically damages or even destroys the foam, such as causing the foam to melt.

Maintaining Flexibility: 

When selecting an adhesive, it’s essential to consider the flexibility requirements to ensure the bonded foam maintains its properties. Adhesives should accommodate the foam’s ability to compress and flex without losing adhesion.

Enough Open Time:

To manufacture professionally, you need glue with a long open time for precise assembly.

Ensuring a Strong Bond:

Foam, particularly open-cell foam, is very porous. Absorption can affect the bonding strength and drying time of the adhesive. To combat this, you need an adhesive that isn’t easily absorbed into the foam whilst still giving a strong bond on porous substrates. 

The Best Glue for Foam 

See our suggested glue for foam and methods for combating specific adhesive challenges. 

Hot Melt Adhesive For Foam

Hot melt adhesives, such as Timbond H509, excel in bonding materials like foam and insulation, offering instant grab, a flexible bond line and safe, solvent-free adherence. It’s also an incredibly cost-effective option, as the glue is deposited to your target area and minimises overspray associated with sprayable adhesives.

However, valid concerns arise about whether hot glue will melt the foam, especially when working with sensitive polystyrene and EPS foam. With technical know-how, you can overcome these challenges.

We recommend using hot melt glue with a heat-controllable machine and a web spray attachment for uniform coverage at cooler temperatures. The Meler B4 machine is a notable choice, offering temperature control from 40°C to 200°C with an accuracy of ± 0.5 °C,  so you can completely tailor your adhesive. 

Typically, lowering the temperature of hot glue reduces open time, yet Timbond H509’s unique permanent tackiness combats this issue. This unique characteristic gives total control over the assembly, achieving a precise and robust bond for your foam.

Hire a Meler B4 Machine Today:

Are you interested in how this hot melt system could streamline your manufacture? Adkwik offers a flexible machine hiring service. Visit the Meler B4 product page here, then select ‘Get a QUOTE’ to make a request.

Spray Contact Adhesive For Foam

Another favoured option in manufacturing settings is spray contact adhesive. The glue provides streamlined, uniform coverage on both foam surfaces. This consistent coating also prevents the foam from becoming over-saturated, which is an advantage for working with particularly porous foams. 

Spray adhesives become airborne and ingestible, posing potential health risks if they contain solvents. In light of this, opt for glue with low or safer solvents. For example: Timbond NC Spray Adhesive.

Timbond NC Spray Adhesive has tacky, pressure-sensitive properties, making it an ideal spray glue for foam. It also has a long open time for accurate assembly and good thermal stability.

What sets Timbond NC apart is its commitment to safety. It’s a non-chlorinated, dichloromethane-free glue, significantly reducing health risks in the workshop or factory environment. This quality is particularly advantageous for work in enclosed spray booths, ensuring safer conditions for your team.

You’ll require a portable spray gun and a stainless steel hose to use this adhesive. Opt for Adkwik’s portable spray gun and hose spray kit with a web spray fitting. This kit arrives with all the necessary fittings, allowing you to begin work immediately.

Alternatives to Glue

At Adkwik, we’re keen to find a solution tailored to your specific needs, and the answer isn’t always a traditional adhesive. Read on for alternative ways to bond foam.

High-Tack Double-Sided Tape For Foam

Another efficient way to bond foam is by using high-performance tape. A high-tack, double-sided tape is practical, offering convenience without sacrificing strength. Its straightforward application process makes it particularly suitable for scenarios where precision is paramount, such as upholstery and automobile interiors. 

For this task, we recommend the 6800 High Tack Double-Sided Tape. It’s a double-coated tape that provides exceptional initial adhesion, excellent temperature resistance and a robust, almost invisible bond on foam. 

Acquire the Best Glue for Foam Applications

Choose from the mentioned adhesives to ensure precision, strength, and a secure bond for your manufacturing needs. 

To discuss specific products or adhesive processes, speak to our technical team via our online contact form or call 01223 412373. We’re far from a faceless company and will gladly assist you with your challenge.