HEALTH CONCERNS FOR EMPLOYEES prompts search for safe spray adhesive

With increasing regulatory pressure on solvent-based adhesives, an Alberta branch of Palliser Furniture decided to make the switch to water-based adhesive in their furniture manufacturing. "We were concerned about the help of our employees and in employee safety," says Richard Siemens, Production Manager, Palliser Furniture, "so the choice to move to a water-based solution was the right one for our employees." Unfortunately, the transition was not initially as smooth as Siemens had hoped it would be. "We struggled with the mechanics of it," he explains, "but then 3M came in and once we switched to the 3M adhesive, things began to turn around quickly."

Following unsuccessful attempts with another water-based adhesive brand, Palliser Furniture opted to employ 3m™ Fastbond™ Foam Adhesive 100. It is a one-part neoprene-based formulation that can replace solvent-based adhesives in many applications. This adhesive gives all the advantages of a water-based product along with reliable bond performance and efficient  production in bonding flexible foams to themselves and other materials. Palliser Furniture is making use of the adhesive on a foam-to-foam basis in the construction of their modern furniture.

Palliser Furniture has been in business over 57 years. With operations in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, the company employs over 5000 people. The Alberta operation employs 230 people and produces 275 pieces of  modern furniture per day. With a strong reputation for creating quality furniture, it is important that nothing slow down the operation or compromise their final product in any way. Siemens is pleased that Fastbond Foam Adhesive 100 allows for a workable solution for their production. "We simply cannot work efficiently just doing one piece at a time but that isn't an issue with the Fastbond 100."

Siemens was impressed with the support 3M has provided in helping make the switch. "3M came in and loaned us an applications system for a while," he says, "and they have worked with us to ensure that we are using the product efficiently." With the former water-based adhesive, they felt as though they had been left to their own devices but they were grateful to have the local representation to assist them with any challenges. "One thing that has really helped us," Siemens adds, "is the 3M support staff."

3M Canada Company

Canadian Industrial Equipment News May 2003