Created on 08.31
How to Automate Special Packaging Adhesive Applications with KQ Retrofit Solutions
The Customer Problem: Existing Machine Works, But One Process Is Still Manual
A typical packaging factory may already have:
- A folder gluer
- A paper bag machine
- A printing machine
- A packaging production line
The main production process is automated.
However, one adhesive-related operation may still require workers.
For example:
Existing Automated Production
Manual Tape Application
↓
High Labor Requirement
↓
Lower Overall Automation
Replacing the entire machine may be unnecessary.
KQ Solution: Online Adhesive Application Retrofit
KQ can integrate an adhesive application module into suitable existing equipment.
The concept is:
Existing Machine
↓
KQ Adhesive Module
↓
Automated Adhesive Application
↓
Existing Production Process Continues
KQ's product materials identify retrofit applications for folder gluers, paper bag machines, printing lines, and packaging equipment.
Customer Pain Point 1: High Labor Cost
Manual adhesive application requires workers to repeatedly perform the same operation.
For high-volume production, this can create significant labor requirements.
KQ's automatic application modules can replace repetitive operations with automated feeding and application.
The potential benefits include:
- Reduced manual operation
- Higher production efficiency
- More stable application
- Reduced labor dependency
Customer Pain Point 2: Inconsistent Adhesive Position
Manual application may result in different positions from one product to another.
This becomes more difficult when the adhesive must be applied to a specific structural area.
KQ develops customized application heads and mechanisms according to:
- Product structure
- Tape type
- Tape width
- Tape length
- Application position
- Production speed
The goal is not simply maximum positioning accuracy.
The goal is to make sure the adhesive performs the required function.
Customer Pain Point 3: Special Packaging Structures
Some packaging applications are difficult because of the product structure itself.
A good example is inner-side tape application for high-end packaging boxes.
The tape needs to cover internal metal staples or other structures to help prevent:
- Product scratches
- Contamination
- Problems caused by rust
KQ's application requires inline installation because after the box is fully formed, it may be difficult for a separate machine or operator to reach the required internal position.
This is a good example of why packaging automation needs to be designed around the product process.
Customer Pain Point 4: The Customer Does Not Need More Precision — They Need the Function
Special packaging applications can sometimes be misunderstood during equipment discussions.
For example, the customer's real requirement may be:
Cover the metal staple completely.
It may not be:
Achieve a specific theoretical positioning tolerance.
KQ's internal training specifically emphasizes that for this type of application, the key objective is to reliably cover the staple and prevent it from damaging or contaminating the packaged product.
This is an important engineering distinction.
A machine should be designed around the customer's actual production objective.
Customer Pain Point 5: Finished Adhesive Material Costs Too Much
Some customers use large quantities of finished double-sided tape.
For high-consumption products, this can create significant material costs.
KQ can evaluate whether hot melt adhesive + release liner is suitable.
The alternative process can be:
Hot Melt Glue
↓
Release Liner Coating
↓
Adhesive Layer
↓
Product Application
For suitable high-volume packaging applications, KQ materials indicate potential material-cost savings and flexible adjustment of glue width, amount, and coating length.
Customer Pain Point 6: Different Products Need Different Adhesive Solutions
A packaging factory may produce several products.
One product may require:
- Double-sided tape
Another may require:
- Transparent tape
Another may require:
- Easy tear tape
Another may require:
- Hot melt adhesive + release liner
KQ's product family supports multiple adhesive application technologies instead of forcing every product into one machine configuration.
How KQ Selects the Retrofit Solution
KQ's process starts with the customer product.
Step 1 — Product Analysis
Understand the product structure.
Step 2 — Application Analysis
Determine where and why adhesive is required.
Step 3 — Adhesive Selection
Evaluate tape, hot melt adhesive, cold glue, or another suitable technology.
Step 4 — Existing Machine Analysis
Review the customer's current equipment.
Step 5 — Module Development
Design the required application head and mechanical structure.
Step 6 — Testing
Validate the solution against the actual production requirements.
This follows KQ's core approach:
Customer Product → Analyze Structure → Select Adhesive → Design Application Module → Automation Solution.
KQ Retrofit Applications
KQ online retrofit solutions can be considered for:
- Folder gluer machines
- Paper bag machines
- Printing lines
- Packaging production equipment
The actual feasibility depends on the existing machine structure and production requirements.
When Should a Customer Choose Retrofit Instead of a New Machine?
Retrofit can be worth evaluating when:
- The existing machine is still reliable
- Most production functions are already automated
- Only the adhesive process needs improvement
- Replacing the machine would create unnecessary investment
- The new adhesive module can be physically and technically integrated
A new machine may still be more appropriate when the existing equipment cannot accommodate the required process.
KQ Is More Than an Equipment Supplier
KQ's approach is based on application engineering.
The company provides:
- Automatic tape application
- Hot melt adhesive application
- Cold glue systems
- Plasma surface treatment
- Vision inspection
- Retrofit solutions
- Customized adhesive modules
This allows KQ to approach a production problem from the process side rather than simply recommending a standard machine.
Conclusion
Packaging automation does not always mean replacing the entire production line.
For manufacturers with reliable existing equipment but one or more manual adhesive processes, an online retrofit solution can be a practical approach.
KQ analyzes the product, adhesive, application position, production speed, and existing machine before developing the appropriate adhesive application module.
The objective is simple:
Solve the customer's actual production problem with the most appropriate automation solution.
Ryan Liu
KQ Overseas Sales Representative
Website: https://www.besthotmeltmachine.com
Email: lc@keqi-auto.com
Tel / WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 18925560856
We are committed to excellence in everything we do and look forward to working with you!
We are committed to excellence in everything we do and look forward to working with you!
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+86 181 0293 8927
+86 189 2556 0856
+86 181 0293 8927
+86 189 2556 0856
luna@keqi-auto.com
lc@keqi-auto.com
luna@keqi-auto.com
lc@keqi-auto.com
No.8 Jinniu Street, Taigongling, Dalingshan Town, Dongguan City, Guangdong Province
No.8 Jinniu Street, Taigongling, Dalingshan Town, Dongguan City, Guangdong Province
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+86 181 0293 8927
+86 1892556 0856
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+86 1892556 0856
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