Should I switch from EVA to metallocene?
Consider metallocene when char, clogged nozzles and tank cleaning cost you downtime, when you run coated or high-recycled board, or when you want to use less adhesive. Metallocene is lower density than EVA, so it can use less adhesive in some lines; trial to confirm. Stay on EVA where it runs clean and holds today. A free line trial shows what yours changes.
EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) has been the workhorse packaging hot melt for decades. Metallocene hot melts are built on metallocene polyolefin polymers instead, and are known for stable viscosity in the pot and resistance to char.
Hot melt and hot equipment can cause burns. Follow your equipment maker’s safety manual and lockout steps; qualified personnel only. Call us for data sheets
EVA vs metallocene at a glance
| EVA | Cattie metallocene | |
|---|---|---|
| In the tank | Can char and skin over time at heat | Typically stable in the pot; resists char build-up |
| Nozzles and filters | More cleaning where char builds | Fewer nozzle clogs, typical of metallocene generally |
| Glue use | Baseline | Lower density, so it can use less adhesive in some lines; trial to confirm |
| Color | Typically amber to light | Typically clear/white |
| Hard boards | Good on standard board | Fast hot tack typically helps limit pop-opens on high-memory board; for coated and high-recycled board |
| Cold | Grade-specific | Freezer grades typically to about −40°F (grade-specific) |
Typical behavior, not specifications. Confirm on your line.
Cattie metallocene grades
Grade numbers, set speeds and viscosities are on metallocene hot melt for case and carton sealing. Freezer grades 8280 and 8365 apply at about 250°F and typically hold to about −40°F (grade-specific).
What does it cost per case?
Metallocene typically costs more per pound than EVA. Whether it costs less per case depends on how much less you apply and how much downtime you lose to char today. We do not publish a generic number because every line is different. A free line trial measures it on yours: bring your current grams per case and cleaning schedule.
What to send for a line trial
Your board or stock, applicator (wheel, extrusion or jet), line speed, tank temperature, the adhesive you run now, and whether the cases go into cold chain or hot conditions.
Request a sample Call 800-249-0337 Request a quote
Related
Metallocene hot melt · Hot melt adhesive · Packaging adhesives · Low-temp vs standard hot melt · Charring and gelling
EVA vs metallocene FAQ
What is the difference between EVA and metallocene hot melt?
EVA is built on ethylene vinyl acetate. Metallocene hot melt is built on metallocene polymers, and is known for pot-life stability, clear color and resistance to char.
Does metallocene use less glue than EVA?
Metallocene hot melt is lower density than EVA, so it can use less adhesive than EVA in some lines; trial to confirm. A free line trial shows what yours saves.
Is metallocene good for freezer cases?
Cattie freezer grades 8280 and 8365 apply at about 250°F and typically hold to about −40°F (grade-specific).
Can I switch from EVA to metallocene in the same tank?
Purge and clean the system before changing chemistries; do not mix incompatible hot melts. Follow your equipment maker’s steps and call 800-249-0337 to plan the changeover.
How do I get a free line trial?
Call 800-249-0337 or email sales@cattieadhesives.com. Tell us your board, applicator and line speed.
