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From the simplest of needs to specifically engineered products, Glue Dots International and John Mulhern Company are dedicated to providing the right product for every application.

These are some frequently asked questions about Glue Dots®. Contact our R&D department with your additional questions at info@jmulhern.com.

Q: Why should I use Glue Dots® instead of other adhesives?
A: Glue Dots are faster and safer that hot glue guns, cleaner than liquid adhesives and leave no sticky residue like double sided tapes. Eliminate hot glue burns, fumes and set-up times with Glue Dots!

Q: Are Glue Dots® safe to use?
A: Yes. Glue Dots are non-toxic, odorless, FDA-approved for indirect food contact and conform to ASTM D-4236. Since glue guns are not necessary, the chance of incurring serious burns from hot glue is eliminated.

Q: How can Glue Dots® be more cost-effective when they're applied manually?
A: Glue Dots can be applied quickly and cleanly (reducing rejects from the QC line), no set up time is required and no drying time is necessary. All of these factors equate to better productivity and cost efficiencies.

Q: Can Glue Dots® be used in an assembly line?
A: Incorporating Glue Dot Applicators into your assembly process can increase your efficiencies.

Q: What materials do Glue Dots® adhere to?
A: Glue Dots adhere to a wide variety of materials. Some examples include paper, plastic, foil, glass, aluminum, cinderblock, Styrofoam, wood, and Teflon. (If the substrates you're working with are questionable, contact John Mulhern Company at info@jmulhern.com for a recommendation.)

Q: How can I be assured of the best bond possible?
A: Some substances may interfere with the bonding quality of Glue Dots® such as moisture, oils, dust, hand lotions, and silicone-coated products. Always make sure that surfaces are clean and dry in order for Glue Dots to adhere properly.

Q: Why use a 3/4" diameter product instead of 1/2" ?
A: Your choice will depend on the size/surface area of the materials you are adhering. When using pressure-sensitive adhesives like Glue Dots®, there is a direct correlation between the amount of surface contact and the overall strength of the bond. 1/2" diameter Glue Dots (as well as several Glue Shapes™) are designed for maximum surface area contact.

Q: Do you manufacture "fugitive" glue products?
A: The term "fugitive" commonly refers to removable adhesives. Many of our products meet that definition.

Q: What is the difference between "tack" and "profile"?
A: "Tack" refers to the aggressiveness of the adhesive. Low tack Glue Dots®, for instance, are removable whereas Super High tack Glue Dots would be considered permanent on most surfaces.

"Profile" refers to the thickness of the Glue Dot. Low profile Glue Dots are very flat compared to High profile Glue Dots which are approximately 1/8" thick. Medium and High profile products are usually best suited for round, concave or irregularly shaped objects.

Q: Does it matter what tack level I use?
A: Yes. As the end-user, you are the best judge of the bond strength required for your application. Your Glue Dots Distributor can assist you in determining the best product for your needs by supplying you with a variety of samples to test.

Q: When should I consider a custom pattern?
A: In those cases where unusual shapes or materials are used, or the bond is under a great deal of stress, a custom pattern may be necessary. Based on your application, your John Mulhern Company can advise you on the best product for your needs.

Q: What is the shelf life of Glue Dots®?
A: While Glue Dots will not degrade over time, contaminants such as moisture and dust can interfere with the bonding qualities. We recommend you replace the product after 18 months and always store in a clean, dry place.

Q: What are the hottest and coldest temperatures Glue Dots® can withstand?
A: This will depend on the amount of stress the bond is under. In some cases, our R&D department may develop a custom adhesive especially for your application.