Are you new to the spray foam insulation industry? The sheer amount of information to digest and understand can be overwhelming for beginners. The best place to start is by examining the equipment essentials. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about spray foam machines for selecting your own equipment. Even if you’re already an established spray foam contractor, you can still benefit from brushing up of this useful spray foam equipment material. You might discover a new piece of equipment or parts that your spray foam rig is missing. Keep reading for all the details you need.
The Different Types of Spray Foam Machine
One of the first things to note about spray foam machines is that there are multiple varieties and models. Distinct spray foam machines may fit your individual project and business needs better than others, so it’s important to know the differences between machines. The major differences come from the type of power or motor that operates each machine. Keep reading to learn a bit more about these distinctions between different spray foam machines.
Electric
Electric spray foam machines have become the go-to instruments for many modern spray foam companies and contractors. This is due to their wide range of applications and consistency in spray foam coverage. Electrical spray foam machines work on electrical motor and pump systems, providing precision and control that other spray foam machines can’t live up to. Electric machines are also capable of performing high-output spray foam applications, which make them ideal for even larger spray foam jobs.
Hydraulic
Hydraulic spray foam machines are high-output models capable of handling the largest industrial foam projects due to their hydraulic motors. Like electrical machines, hydraulic spray foam machines are capable of a range of spray foam applications, especially due to their powerful output. Having such a powerful output allows hydraulic spray foam machines to provide more coverage at faster rates than other spray foam equipment. Additionally, hydraulic spray foam machines are some of the hardiest and can last your business 10 years or more.
Air-Driven
Finally, air-driven spray foam machines use air compressors to operate and apply spray foam materials. Air-driven systems are ideal for beginner spray foam contractors, as they are easy to use and cost effective. Air-driven systems don’t offer as powerful an output as the other machine types and can be a bit less flexible due to the need for an air compressor. However, if you’re looking for a spray foam system as a startup, air-driven machines are a smart option.
Elements of a Spray Foam Machine
Spray foam machines also have various moving parts that help them work efficiently and safely. There are a few crucial parts that make up a spray foam machine, including:
- Air supply (for pump and air-driven machines)/power supply
- Transfer pumps
- Heated hoses
- Spray gun
Without these elements and the corresponding equipment, your spray foam machine won’t be able to operate properly. If you don’t coordinate your power supply or air supply with your type of spray foam machine, you won’t be able to run it. For example, if you have an air-driven machine and don’t have a portable air compressor or there isn’t one present at your work site, you won’t be able to operate your system. These elements are also important to know for maintaining and caring for your equipment. Always clean out your spray hoses and inspect your spray gun between uses. Foam buildup can cause lower foam outputs or even equipment failure or accidents.
Different Types of Spray Foam
While not an element of the spray foam machine itself, the application process is very crucial. Like the machine itself, there are also several types of spray foam insulation materials. For example, there are low-density, medium-density, and high-density foam varieties to choose from. High-density foams tend to have higher R-values, which are better for building insulation projects. On the other hand, low-density foams have lower R-values but expand more during the application process, which makes them ideal for insulating tight spaces.
Another classification of spray foams to note is open-celled foams versus closed-celled foams. Open-cell foams are the type to expand more but closed-cell foams offer greater moisture and heat resistance. Make sure to examine these differences when considering your spray foam rig and equipment.
How Does a Spray Foam Machine Work?
Once you understand all the moving parts and aspects of the machine itself, you can start to understand how a spray foam machine works. First, you need to connect all your material supplies, such as hoses, spray guns, and transfer pumps. Spray foam may come in a variety of forms, such as in drums and other containers. From there, the equipment pumps the material through a filter and pressurizes it as it passes through a heater. Spray foam must be heated to activate its chemical properties. These materials are separated until they reach the tip of the spray gun, where the contractor applies the formed foam material.
Where To Find Spray Foam Machines for Your Business
After learning everything you need to know about spray foam machines, you might be wondering where you can find spray foam equipment of your own. Whether you’re looking for spray foam machines to start your own business or replacement equipment, turn to Spray Foam Systems LLC. Here at Spray Foam Systems, we carry a wide range of spray foam equipment and rigs so that you can find everything you need for foam applications. With a spray foam rig, you can keep your materials safe and bundled in one place to transport to your next appointment or jobsite.
Now that you have more information about spray foam machines and the insulation process, you can use this knowledge to improve your own spray foam business. Make sure you have the right equipment for the job so that your business offers the most efficient spray foam applications. And if you’re looking to expand your spray foam fleet, remember that Spray Foam Systems offers various spray insulation machines for sale. Find yours today!
