An apparatus for melting thermoplastic material is disclosed. The apparatus includes a heated manifold and at least one heating element disposed within the heated manifold. The heated manifold defines a plurality of cavities, a pump supply passage, and a discharge passage. The plurality of cavities are spaced apart from one another, and each receives particles of thermoplastic material from a hopper. The particles of thermoplastic material are melted within the plurality of cavities. The pump supply passage receives molten thermoplastic material from the plurality of cavities and supplies the molten thermoplastic material to a pump. The discharge passage receives pressurized molten thermoplastic material from the pump and is in fluid communication with a dispenser. The heating element transfers heat substantially throughout the heated manifold.