5 Things to Look for When Buying a Spray Foam Machine

When you’re looking for a spray foam machine, getting the right equipment for the job is key. The wrong equipment can limit the jobs you can do or cause you to struggle to complete jobs. At worst, it can lead to inefficiency or force crews to be equipment mechanics. This costs you time and money.

The goal is to right-size your spray foam insulation rig to optimize productivity and complete jobs efficiently.

Here are five things you need to evaluate to ensure you get a spray foam rig that meets your needs.

1. Proportioner

The proportioner (a.k.a. the reactor) heats, pressurizes, and dispenses the spray foam or coatings. It mixes the A/B materials to produce the spray foam or coating product. When evaluating a proportioner, contractors will pay attention to its components, including:

• Pump drive system. Metering pumps proportion the materials and transport them through heated hoses to spray guns. Most systems are electrical, air-driven, or hydraulic-driven. Which pump drive system is right for you depends on the types of jobs you do. Hydraulic machines are the highest-performance proportioners for the biggest jobs and carry the most expensive price tags.
• Output. Hydraulic spray foam machines are designed for high output and generally deliver between 30 to 50 pounds of material per minute. This allows operators to work faster. Air-driven machines typically deliver around 25 pounds of materials per minute, while an electric spray foam insulation rig can generally output between 20 and 30 pounds per minute.
• Pressure rating. A spray foam machine’s pressure rating measures how much pressure is generated to mix the chemicals and deliver them to the spray gun. You will want to ensure that your spray gun’s output and pressure ratings match your machine.
• Heating unit. Most spray foam machines use temperatures between 140 and 150 degrees to lower the chemicals’ viscosity while mixing and pumping. Contractors will want to ensure their machine has a robust heating system with enough capacity to manage the needed output.
• Electrical system. Proportioners have heaters and control systems that will require electricity, even for hydraulic machines.

It is important to right-size your rig because many machines cannot be retrofitted for upgrades. You should work with Intech Equipment and Supply professionals to ensure you get the right tools to handle your toughest jobs.

2. Compressor

Undersized compressors will not deliver the necessary air to power pumps, guns, mixers, and breathing systems. This can lead to improper mixing, gun failure, or poor output.

3. Generator

Spray foam insulation rigs use a lot of power. You need to make sure the generator you choose produces the energy required to drive your machine. Most proportioners will use pre-heaters along with heated hoses to maintain consistent temperatures. Spray foam machines also need electrical power to run compressors, lights, air pumps, air dryers, control panels, and other accessories.

Diesel generators will cost a bit more but run more efficiently and be cooler. They also tend to have a significantly longer lifespan.

4. Trailer

If you are planning to use a trailer or hauler for your spray foam machine, you will want to make sure it is equipped to handle heavy loads. You will want to ensure you have a balanced load as well. If the tongue weight is too light or too heavy, it can cause mechanical problems and breakdowns.

5. System Integrator and Supplier

One of the most important decisions you will make when choosing a spray foam insulation rig is choosing which company to work with. Whether you are getting a turnkey unit, a pre-configured rig, or a custom-built spray foam rig, you want to work with someone with deep expertise.

Intech Equipment and Supply is an industry leader in spray foam equipment, mobile spray foam rigs, parts, training, service, and support. With a combined 150 years of experience in the residential and commercial industry, Intech Equipment and Supply can help you find the right spray foam machines and rigs to power your business.

Intech Equipment and Supply is a full-service spray foam equipment and parts supplier featuring equipment from Graco, PMC, Leister, and Honeywell.

Contact Intech Equipment and Supply to discuss your spray foam machine needs at 866-652-9975 or shop spray foam rigs online.

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.