Whether it’s a handheld pneumatic benchtop dispenser or a needle valve mounted to a Cartesian robot, there are many technologies for getting an adhesive, sealant or lubricant from a bulk supply and onto a part. By automating the dispensing process, assemblers can minimize waste, ensure quality and increase productivity.

With the right equipment, manufacturers can accurately dispense milliliter, microliter and nanoliter dots.

From manually operated dispensers to robot-mounted valves, dispensing technology has come a long way in half a century.

Looks can sometimes be deceiving in a positive way. A good example is the t:slim insulin pump made by Tandem Diabetes Care Inc.