Gluing & Dispensing 4.0: How to Automate Your Application Efficiently
In many production lines, manual gluing has long since become a bottleneck – uneven application of material, error-prone processes and harmful fumes cost time, quality and money. However, modern low-cost automation enables the transition to precise, reproducible and cost-effective dispensing. This is precisely what RBTXpert Peter Stadler demonstrates in his projects: rather than rigid systems, the focus is on flexible, scalable adhesive cells that can be quickly adapted to new tasks – bonding today, dispensing or screwing tomorrow. The key lies in a holistic view of the process. From analysing the required quantities and cycle times, through the correct surface pre-treatment, to selecting the appropriate kinematics, a solution is created that operates reliably, safely and cost-effectively. More and more companies – from the automotive sector to the food industry – are therefore turning to automated dispensing systems that ensure consistent quality whilst protecting employees from harmful emissions. Equipped with state-of-the-art dispensing technology, camera systems and automated feeding and removal, such cells achieve a high level of process reliability and often run autonomously throughout entire shifts. Those planning to get started can benefit from RBTX’s feasibility tests, simulations and direct expert advice – for an adhesive solution that fits their own production perfectly.
The strategy: Three steps to an automated adhesive application cell
Understanding material properties and dosing technology
Not all adhesives and sealants behave in the same way. Viscosity, pot life, curing and reactivity influence the choice of dispensing technology (e.g. volumetric dispensing, jetting, time-pressure systems). Precise coordination between the material, nozzle and control system is crucial for a clean result.
Optimise motion control and path planning
The robot or gantry must apply the adhesive precisely along the desired contour – at a consistent speed, constant distance and synchronised with the dispensing quantity. Linear axes, SCARA or 6-axis robots with precise control are ideal here.
Integrate process monitoring and quality assurance
Sensors, camera systems and flow monitoring help to control the process and detect errors at an early stage. This ensures consistently high quality – even with large quantities or complex geometries.
How to get started with your automated adhesive or dispensing solution
Your guide to planning and launching adhesive automation successfully.
Define use case
What materials are to be processed? What are the requirements in terms of line layout, cycle time, dosing quantity and curing?
Select suitable components On the RBTX marketplace, you will find
Robotic arms, gantry systems and linear axes; Dosing pumps, valves and controls; Grippers, nozzles, sensors and vision systems; Complete solutions for bonding and dispensing tasks
Use tests & advice
Use the RBTX Lab to have your application tested or get advice from experts – free of charge and with no obligation.
Integration & commissioning
Many systems are plug-and-play and can be integrated into existing production lines with minimal effort. igus offers support, training and online tools for configuration.
RBTXpert Conclusion
Automated gluing or dispensing sounds simple at first - but the devil is in the detail. Every adhesive behaves differently: sometimes it is viscous, sometimes liquid, sometimes it hardens too quickly. If you don't choose the right dispensing technique, you will quickly end up with threads, bubbles or uneven lines. First take a close look at your material - viscosity, pot life, curing. Then look for a solution in which the dosing pump, nozzle and robot movement work together perfectly. And: It's better to have it tested once before you invest. That way, you get a system that works really cleanly - and doesn't just look good on paper.

Advantages of automated gluing and dispensing processes
Automated gluing & dispensing improves speed, precision, and consistency over manual methods.
Consistent quality
Higher precision and repeatability
Cost savings
Reduction of waste and rework
Increased productivity
Faster cycle times and higher productivity
Reliable
Cleanliness and process reliability
Safety & Ergonomics
Relief for employees performing monotonous or dangerous tasks
Get started, find your solution now!

Volkswagen AG / VinciTech B.V.

DOBOT

Simprop electronic Walter Claas GmbH & Co. KG

Adley NV
igus GmbH

tapo-fix GmbH

RBTX

igus® GmbH
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the automation of adhesive gluing and dispensing processes
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