Open Bond Time Allows for Fit Adjustment and Positioning
3M™ Hot Melt Adhesive 3738 features a 50 second open time that allows for positioning and adjustment on wood, polypropylene, corrugated boxes and lightweight substrates. Its nearly instant bonding property reduces production time for POP assembly, joining, attaching, securing, repairing, potting, panel bonding, wire tacking, bundling, sealing, encapsulating, rigidizing, foam bonding, and packaging. For use with a 3M™ Hot Melt Applicator.
Recommended Applications
- Cabinetry
- Woodworking
- Sound damping
- Furniture manufacturing
- Upholstery
- POP displays
- General industrial
Understanding Hot Melt Adhesives
Hot melt adhesives, also known as glue sticks, are liquefied thermoplastic adhesives available in both low and high-temperature versions. Low temperature hot melt adhesives are applied at 250ºF/121ºC temperatures, which makes them ideal for bonding electronics, plastics, cloth and other heat sensitive materials. High temperature hot melt adhesives are applied at 380ºF/193ºC and produce a stronger bond than the low temperature hot melts.
Melted adhesive is extruded through a nozzle using a 3M Hot Melt Applicator by either pneumatic pressure, a mechanical trigger mechanism, or with pressure applied directly on the stick. Different nozzles can be used to apply thin, wide strips or narrow, thicker beads. Hot melt adhesive generally sets quickly, ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on the adhesive formulation.
Bringing Better Ideas to the Surface through Science and Innovation
In our 3M Industrial Adhesives and Tapes Division, we apply the science of adhesion to deliver innovative solutions that improve the design and manufacturing processes of companies around the world. In the end, our technologies help customers like you deliver competitive products to the market faster and more efficiently.

3M 95725, Venture Tape Metal Building Facing Tape 1552CW, White, 72 mm x 45.7 m, 7010313505
Norton 66623335427, 2" Dia Vortex Rapid Prep Quick-Change Non-Woven Abrasive Disc, Medium Grade, 50 Each
3M 41594, Polyurethane Sealant 540, Gray, 310 mL Cartridge, 7000000942, 12/Case
3M™ 07010, Supplied Air Respirator Hose W-9435-25/07010(AAD), 25 ft, 3/8 in ID, Industrial Interchange Fittings, High Pressure, 7000005374, 1 EA/Case
NORTON 66623313931 - 3" Dia. Blaze Rapid Blend Quick-Change TS (TYPE II) Non-Woven Disc, 25 Each
Dynabrade 51750 .1 hp Straight-Line Extension Pencil Grinder, Rear Exhaust, 60,000 RPM, 1/8" Collet
3M 36518, Green Corps Abrasive File Belt, 80 Grit, 1/2 in x 18 in (12.7 mm x 457.2 mm), 7100226321, 20 Belts Per Carton, 5 Cartons Per Case
3M 06504, Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200, Black, 295 mL Cartridge, 7000042727, 12/Case
Dynabrade 55501 .1hp Pencil Grinder, Twin Turbine, 100,000 RPM, Nickel-Plated Aluminum Housing, 3mm Collet
3M 15041, Scotch Electrical Shielding Tape 24, 1 in x 15 ft (25 mm x 4,6 m), 7000031348
Standard Abrasives 541151, Quick Change TS P.A.R.T. #21 Disc Mandrel, 5/8 in TA4 (PILOT), 7000121723 
