Don’t let system errors such as pressure imbalances cause downtime during professional insulation applications. Here are some tips to help you maintain proper pressure balance in your spray foam rigs.
Pay Attention to Foam Consistency
One of the first signs that your spray foam rig has a pressure issue is a change in the consistency of your spray foam. As you apply insulation or other types of polyurethane foam, pay attention to the foam’s consistency, color, temperature, and more. When these factors change within your foam mixture, it could be due to a pressure imbalance in your proportioner or other parts of your rig. The sooner you notice signs of an issue, the sooner you can troubleshoot the problem with your equipment and get your rig back up and running.
Clean Spray Rig Parts Frequently
A common cause of pressure imbalances is when hoses, guns, and other spray foam equipment get clogged. This can cause a blockage where your foam materials mix, causing poor-quality spray. The best practice to maintain your spray foam rig is to flush your hoses, guns, and other parts with foam dissolvent after every use. This will prevent the access foam from curing and clogging your hoses and other parts, eventually leading to an imbalanced system. Cleaning your system regularly will also help promote more efficient sprays and high-quality applications. It can also help keep your equipment in top shape, promoting long-lasting tools.
Perform a Pressure Test
Before starting a spray foam application, perform a pressure test to check your equipment. Spray a small area of foam once you’ve powered your system up and given time for the product to heat. This will allow you to check the pressure settings on your proportioner system and inspect the quality of your spray foam for any inconsistencies. Once you’ve checked your settings, you can apply the rest of the insulation. Don’t forget to monitor your foam tanks to see when you’ll need a replacement—running out of foam is another factor that can cause pressure imbalances.
Practice these tips to maintain proper pressure balance in your spray rig to avoid troubleshooting issues during your next installation. If you’re a spray foam contractor looking for new equipment, browse our selection of low-pressure spray foam insulation equipment at Spray Foam Systems. We offer high-quality systems and replacement parts to help you upgrade your business.
