Advantages:

• Thicker webbing.
   
• Very durable.
   
• Can span large opening.
   
• Functions in mild wind conditions.
   
• Glue is not destroyed easily In bad weather.
   

Disadvantages:

• Glue vapors can be toxic.
   
• Requires air compressor to function.
   
• Requires electricity to operate.
   
• Do not operate well in windy conditions.
   
• Glue temperature can exceed 380°F.
   
• Glue is highly aggressive.

   

I would also like to point out that the glue for this type of system is flammable.  Most glues are flammable in their vapor, liquid or cured forms.  There are some glues that are not considered flammable once dry.

What to look for in quality units.

• 1/4" tubing used throughout the unit.  Cheap units will use 3/16" tube and increase to 1/4" once outside the unit.  This increases pressure and decreases flow of the air which should be avoided.
   
• Only use industrial rated glue gun units rated at a minimum of 60 watts.  Do not confuse these with blue, white and red craft glue guns which can require you to wait more often.  You should be able to get an industrial version for only $20.00 more than a craft glue gun at the entry levels.
   
• Quality units will have a flex hose option.  This will make using the unit much easier.  The most common breakage I have seen is when a person pulls a heavy compressor hose by just the handle of glue gun.  The pressure cracks the plastic where the pneumatic fitting come through the plastic.