Single Component Metering & Dispensing Systems Comparison

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

• Shot size and flow rate
• 1K material properties
• Manufacturing style

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.

^{*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.}

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.

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.

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.