How to Care for a Used Spray Foam Insulation Machine
By Kevin MaloneWhether you are working with new or used spray foam insulation equipment, you want to extend the life of your equipment as long as possible to get maximum value and use. It is important to conduct regular checks and cleaning to keep your equipment in good shape.
When it comes to used spray foam equipment, you will want to take extra care to avoid breakdowns or problems on the job site.
Used Proportioners
If you are working with a used spray foam machine or buying a used spray foam insulation machine for sale, proper maintenance is crucial. You will want to follow any manufacturer recommendations. The following are some key tasks you will want to perform regularly.
- Make sure the drum mixer is free from excess buildup. As the drum empties, air enters the chamber, which can cause materials to crystallize.
- The y-strainer prevents large pieces of crystalized material from entering the machine, but it can get clogged. Blockage will decrease performance and may affect the quality of the spray foam application.
- You should also regularly check the power source. Make sure the incoming voltage meets manufacturer specs and maintains a consistent level.
- Check hydraulic oil to ensure proper pump lubrication.
- Change the Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP) fluid to lubricate and protect pump seals.
Transfer pumps need to be lubricated properly, but avoid petroleum lubricants, which can damage O-rings. A little lithium grease at the air inlet can do the trick.
Used Spray Foam Guns
Used spray foam guns should be regularly stripped and cleaned to avoid blockage. Regular cleaning will remove any buildup or hardened foam to prevent internal parts from wearing down more quickly. Spray foam guns can be soaked in solvent to remove debris, as long as you remove the O-rings to avoid damage from the solvent. This is also a good time to check for any damage to O-rings that could prevent an effective seal between the mixing chamber and nozzle.
While spray foam guns can often run for up to three weeks without being rebuilt, you should perform basic maintenance after every use to make sure it is cleaned and greased for optimal output. Used guns may have a few years of use already, so it is important to flush out the mix chamber and keep the gun cleaned to maximize machine life.
Hoses
You will want to do a daily inspection of your hoses to make sure there are no leaks, holes, or cracks. If you spot any worn parts, such as fittings or coupling, replace them to prevent leaks or damage. Hoses should be cleaned after each use and flushed out with solvents or cleaning solution to eliminate any remaining foam residue to prevent build-up and clogs.
For heated hoses, you should check the insulation regularly for signs of wear to ensure you can maintain the spray foam at the necessary temperature for application.
Spare Parts
When buying a used spray foam insulation machine for sale or taking care of your used spray foam equipment, it is always a good idea to carry spare parts. You do not want to have to shut down a job because you do not have the replacement parts you need.
Just in case, most contractors make sure they have a ready supply of:
- Filters
- O-rings
- Spray foam gun nozzles
- Pump seals
- Hoses
- Valves
You may also want to keep air and fluid section repair kits, side seal cartridges and repair kits, pump rebuild kits, and transfer pump parts as part of your spray foam rig. Keeping a stand-by stock at the ready helps prevent downtime.
Always Follow Manufacturer Recommendations
Regardless of the type of spray foam equipment you use, you should check with the manufacturer and follow their recommendation to keep your equipment running smoothly.
If you are searching for a used spray foam insulation machine for sale, Intech Equipment & Supply can help. We carry a selection of new and used spray foam equipment to fit every type of job. All of our used equipment has been thoroughly tested to ensure everything works properly. We also refurbish equipment when needed.
When you work with a reliable and reputable distributor like Intech Equipment & Supply, you can be confident that you will be getting quality used spray foam equipment.
Contact the spray foam experts at Intech Equipment & Supply to help you find the right used spray foam insulation machine for sale.
About Kevin Malone
Kevin Malone is a leading expert in the spray foam insulation industry with 34 years of experience in spray foam fluid handling and a passion for innovation. He currently offers his extensive knowledge to Intech Equipment and Supply customers by supporting them in selecting quality spray foam equipment to optimize their business. Learn more about Kevin here.