Whether you’re stocking your newly established spray foam business or purchasing your latest piece of spray foam equipment, every business must make a big decision: choosing a spray system. Many beginner spray foam contractors wonder which spray foam machine is best between electric, hydraulic, and air-driven systems, but it can be difficult to answer this question. Keep reading to learn more about these three spray foam systems, and discover the best choice when you’re looking for a new machine.
The Differences in Spray Foam Equipment Types
There are three main types of spray foam machines: electric, hydraulic, and air-driven. Each machine type has a unique system and spray process, which makes them ideal for certain applications. Keep reading the breakdown of each type of equipment and how they work. Then, we can explore which is best for you.
Air-Driven Spray Foam Equipment
Let’s start with air-driven spray foam machines, as they are common among beginner spray foam contractors. These machines use a single air motor to power two pumps connecting the foam and polyurea chemicals. Air-driven spray equipment requires a compressed air machine to operate. They are common for on-site sprays where large air compressors are available. Air-driven systems are considered low-output machines, making them cost-effective and easy to use, even for beginner contractors. Consider the size of your average spray area, as air-driven systems could take some time to cover the full surface.
Electric Spray Foam Equipment
Electric spray foam machines offer a medium-level spray output of about 20–30 pounds of material per minute. Their medium output range and ease of use make them some of the most popular models in the industry. Electric spray foam equipment supports both residential and commercial work, though you may need to upgrade when tackling extremely large-scale commercial spaces and buildings. This equipment features electric pumps and motors, offering precise control over air-driven models. Electric systems are long-lasting and reliable; with the right care, these machines can last your business for 15 years or more.
Hydraulic Spray Foam Equipment
Hydraulic spray foam machines have the highest output of the three equipment types. These machines can deliver 30–50 pounds of material per minute, which is ideal for large-scale applications. Hydraulic equipment supports many large-scale insulation projects, including commercial buildings, roofing, and oil and gas applications. Hydraulic systems have even more longevity than electric machines; they can last decades with regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
Benefits of Each Spray Foam Type
Air-driven foam machines’ biggest benefit is their accessibility. Their low output is perfectly fine for beginner contractors. The low price point makes them common units for first-time and startup businesses.
One benefit of electric and hydraulic systems is that they feature pressure monitoring technology. Some machines automatically shut down when they detect pressure imbalances. This helps you avoid damaging the system or wasting foam on a poor-quality spray. Air-driven machines lack this technology, so you’ll need to pay closer attention to your spray output and the quality of foam to catch any pressure imbalances.
Another benefit of hydraulic spray foam machines is their longevity. If you’re looking for a system that will outlast the competition, a hydraulic machine has the longest lifespan due to its durable design. This makes hydraulic spray foam equipment cost-effective, though the initial price can be much higher than the other two systems. Hydraulic systems have the highest output if you’re looking to take on large-scale jobs.
Which Spray Foam Machine To Buy
Now that you know the benefits of each spray foam equipment type and their main differences, you can make an informed decision on which system to buy.
Air-Driven Machines
Air-driven machines are ideal if you consider yourself a beginner or entry-level contractor. Startup spray foam businesses often use air-driven machines for their cost-efficiency and simplicity. Consider their output when scheduling your spray foam jobs. Large-scale sprays may take much longer to complete with this equipment.
Electric Machines
Electric spray foam machines are reliable and consistent. Choose an electric spray foam machine if you anticipate taking on residential and commercial jobs and need a flexible system. Electric machines are easy to operate and suitable for a variety of applications, including large projects that air-driven systems can’t manage. Electric systems also help you maintain stable spray foam pressure to deliver high-quality, consistent spray foam with every job.
Hydraulic Machines
Hydraulic machines are ideal for professional spray foam contractors who want to upgrade their current machinery to support large jobs. This equipment’s high output rate allows contractors to take on a wide variety of jobs, including residential and large-scale commercial buildings. While their initial cost can be much higher up front, hydraulic machines often require less maintenance, which can help you save money on repairs.
You should consider the various insulation accessories you’ll need. Each machine requires heating systems and heated hoses to help spray foam mixtures reach and retain optimal temperatures. Regardless of the type of equipment you operate, you’ll want to heat your foam components to 120–140 degrees Fahrenheit for open-cell foam and 110–130 for closed-cell foam. Heated hoses and drums can maintain this temperature alongside your equipment. This keeps foam at the optimal temperature for high-quality spraying.
Where To Find Spray Foam Equipment
If you have a spray foam system in mind for your business, you may wonder where to acquire the equipment. Fortunately, you don’t need to look far to find high-quality spray foam equipment sellers. At Spray Foam Systems, we offer new and used polyurethane foam equipment for professional contractors. Whether you’re in the market for an air-driven, electric, or hydraulic system, we can pair you with the perfect model for your business’s needs. Browse our selection of spray insulation machines for sale today, and find the right machine to help you grow your business.
When determining which spray foam system is best between air-driven, hydraulic, and electric machines, it can be difficult to uncover a straight answer because it differs for every spray foam business. The system that works best for you as a contractor may not be the right fit for others. Remember this as you explore the different spray foam machines on the market, and consider all your options before choosing your next equipment upgrade.
