Patch applicator

Types of patch applicators

Using the right patch applicator ensures that patches are applied in a timely manner and that the end-user experience with the product is favorable. There are several mechanisms and methods for applying patches commercially and at home.

• Industrial hot press applicator

  This machine uses heat and pressure to apply patches to garments. The heated upper plate is used to apply patches that have heat-activated adhesive on the backside. This machine is the most commonly used in the clothing industry for the application of insignias, logos, and labels. Its three primary benefits include consistently applying patches with a uniform heat level, achieving a better quality of the final product, and reducing the amount of time and effort required for manual application.

• Automatic patch sewing machine

  An automatic patch sewing machine can be used to stitch patches directly onto clothing items. This device automates the sewing process, making it quicker and more efficient than hand-sewing patches. Operators will need to feed the machine with clothing items and patches, and the machine will sew the patches onto the clothing items without further intervention. While the advantage of an automatic sewing machine is a higher level of productivity and consistency-yet another benefit of this machine is that it provides a secure and long-lasting attachment for patches.

• Ultrasonic patch applicator

  This device uses ultrasonic vibrations to apply patches, which is a newer technology. It works by using ultrasonic waves to generate heat, which bonds the patch to the material without using an adhesive. This method offers precise control over the application process and minimizes damage to delicate fabrics.

• Heat transfer patch applicator

  This is a simple device that applies heat to the patch, thus activating the adhesive on its backside. The main difference between this machine and others is that this machine is smaller, portable, and manual. So, it is good for applying patches in places where other machines cannot be used. Secondly, it is a good means of applying patches in low-production environments where insignias and patches are not frequently applied.

• Handheld heat press applicator

  Handheld heat press patch applicators are small, portable devices to apply patches to clothing using heat and pressure. This applicator generally has a heat source, a control system for temperature and time, and a pressure mechanism. It works by heating the patch and activating the adhesive on its backside using pressure and heat. Different types of handheld heat press applicators currently exist. Safety precautions should be taken into consideration whenever the applicator is used.

• Liquid adhesive applicator

  Patches are often applied using liquid adhesive in situations where heat cannot be used or when a more flexible attachment method is required. Additionally, fabric glue can be used to apply adhesive patches. Fabric glue is an alternative for sewn-on patches and provides a non-invasive method for applying patches to garments. This method is also a good way to go on delicate materials. Patches are applied using fabric glue by simply applying a thin layer of glue to the garment and the patch, allowing the glue to get tacky, and then pressing the patch onto the garment.

Specifications and maintenance of patch applicators

The specifications of a patch applicator may differ based on the types available. The highlight features are mentioned in the table below.

• Size and Weight

  Generally, the size and weight of a patch applicator need to be compact and lightweight.

• Compatibility with Patches

  Various patches, including size, shape, and adhesive formulation, need to be compatible.

• Power Source

  The patch applicators can be manual or electric, battery-powered, or gas-powered.

• Production Speed

  The speed at which the applicator can apply patches also varies depending on the model.

• Precision and Control

  The precision and control of patch placement are determined.

• Ease of Use and Ergonomics

  Generally, the patch applicators need to be user-friendly and ergonomic design.

Industry scenarios of patch applicators

• Pharmaceutical companies:

  In the pharmaceutical industry, a pharmaceutical patch applicator plays a vital role in ensuring the proper and accurate application of medical patches. These patches, often infused with medication, are designed for various treatments, including pain management, hormone therapy, smoking cessation, and more. The pharmaceutical patch applicator assists healthcare professionals in one or both of the following ways: applying medication patches to patients with precision and care or enhancing patient self-application by providing a tool that ensures correct placement and adherence.

• Cosmetic companies:

  In the cosmetic industry, a patch applicator device is crucial in delivering beauty treatments efficiently and hygienically. This device allows for the precise application of cosmetic patches, such as under-eye patches, blemish spots, hydrating patches, and more. By using a cosmetic patch applicator, cosmetic companies ensure that these patches are applied accurately to the desired areas of the skin. This precision application maximizes the benefits of the cosmetic patches and minimizes product waste.

• Skincare companies:

  The skincare industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with an increasing demand for innovative and effective solutions. In this booming market, the demand for effective skincare delivery systems continues to rise. These systems offer targeted nourishment and hydration right where the skin needs it. Micro-patches, which are concentrated micro-formulations, are becoming quite popular. To apply these patches precisely and efficiently, skincare companies rely on patch applicators. These applicators ensure accurate application of skincare patches, maximizing the benefits for consumers.

• Food and vitamin companies:

  In the realm of nutritional supplements, food, and vitamin delivery, patch applicators have emerged as a revolutionary solution. These applicators provide a convenient and non-invasive method for consumers to access essential vitamins and nutrients through skin application. Patch applicators play a vital role in ensuring precise placement and adherence of vitamin patches on the skin. By using patch applicators, companies can enhance the efficacy and bioavailability of their vitamin patches, offering consumers an easy and effective way to boost their nutrient intake.

How to Choose Patch Applicators

It is important to consider several factors when choosing a supply of these tools for the customer's market. They include the aim of application, strength, control, and calibration, as well as the demand for the patch applicator.

• Purpose: It is important to consider whether the machine will be used for fabric patches or other types of patches. Different types of patch applicators are suitable for different kinds of patches.
• Quality and durability: The material and construction of the patch applicator should be of high quality and durable. It should be suitable for multiple uses, as this will help to save costs in the long run.
• Ease of use: Consider the ease of operating the patch applicator. It should have clear instructions, and intuitive controls, and be designed ergonomically to allow quick and easy operation.
• Strength: The strength of the patch applicator is the level of heat and pressure it can provide when applying patches. Consider the strength required for different types of patches and choose a patch applicator that can provide the necessary heat and pressure.
• Control and calibration: Some patch applicators allow users to control and calibrate temperature and pressure levels. This flexibility is important because different materials require different settings to apply patches correctly.
• Demand: Consider the number of patches that need to be applied. If only a few patches need to be applied, a manual or simple patch applicator may suffice. However, if many patches need to be applied, it is better to choose an electric or high-efficiency patch applicator.

Patch applicator FAQ

Q1: Which patch applicator is more effective among the hand-held, air-powered, and electric applicators?

A1: While all three methods are effective for patch application, the electric patch applicator is usually considered the most efficient due to its automated stamping process, which provides consistent heat and uniform pressure.

Q2: Can a patch applicator be used for non-embroidered patches?

A2: Yes, a patch applicator can apply any patch as long as the material can withstand the heat. However, adhesive patches are the only patches that can be applied without sewing.

Q3: Can patches be applied without using a patch applicator?

A3: Yes, patches can be applied by sewing or using fabric glue.

Q4: Can a patch applicator be used for irregularly shaped patches?

A4: Yes, the patch applicator can be used for irregularly shaped patches, but the patch's heat plate should be smaller than the patch to apply even heat.