What's New in Spray Foam Equipment For 2020?
By Kevin MaloneA growing number ofprofessional home builders are choosing spray foam insulation over fiberglassfor its overwhelming benefits. Compared to traditional fiberglass, spray foamretains internal temperatures more efficiently, block more external noise,which creates a more comfortable and inviting home. Because of these perks,builders are willing to pay the extra cost to install spray foam insulation intheir new builds. Also, more homeowners are interested in removing theirfiberglass insulation to install energy-efficient spray foam in their crawlspaces, walls, and attics.
Naturally, spray foam contractors are working hard to keep on top of this demand in 2020. Having functional and efficient spray foam equipment helps them stay productive and produce great results for all their clients. Industry-leading brands are also working hard to manufacture new equipment that helps contractors stay competitive.
Here is what's new in spray foam equipment for 2020:
Sustainability &Eco-Friendliness
One of the biggest trends in the spray foam industry is the pursuit of environmentally-friendly solutions. Increasing awareness of environmental impacts has inspired the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) to complete rigorous assessments on spray foam insulation to confirm that SPF applications are a responsible solution to energy concerns. There are also more efforts to make spray foam partly (15%) out of bio-based materials like soy to reduce the amount of petroleum-based materials in its composition.
However, regardless ofspray foam's makeup, the increased R-value and reduced airflow out of buildingswork for the benefit of the environment. SPF insulation reduces how hard HVACsystems have to work to keep buildings at a comfortable temperature. Thisreduces energy usage no matter what type of spray foam materials you select.
Energy- Efficient SprayFoam Machines
The effort toward eco-friendliness crosses into the need for energy-efficiency. New spray foam equipment is designed to use less power than preceding models. This trend applies to low-powered machines like the new PMC PF/PFX-1600, the newest spray foam machine from Poly-Mac. It uses the most advanced pneumatic and heating technology to decrease air and power consumption. With an output of 16 lbs/ minute, it has enough production power for both seasoned and entry-level contractors.
Speed & Less Downtime
When you read the product descriptions of the newest equipment from top brands, you'll see one common feature: less downtime. Speed is the name of the game in 2020. Less downtime keeps you on top of your schedule and out of the red. New guns like the PMC AP-3 is an even more lightweight improvement on its predecessor, the AP-2, and promotes quick changes, less downtime, and a more user-friendly experience.
Another effort towardthis trend is to reduce the complexity of the machine so that it is easier totroubleshoot and get back to work. Instead of using intricate circuit boards,top brands are installing easier control panels that even novice users can usewith some know-how. If you get a machine from our Intech Store, you can alwayscall our experts to get to the bottom of the issue or request real-time help.
New Companies; NewProducts
Rising stars like Akurate Dynamics are offering new and innovative products to address common SPF contractor issues. For example, the FSP Stick by Akurate Dynamics is a next-gen fluid supply to the proportioner system that is specifically made to reduce downtime by keeping the material viscous and ready for application. Its pressure and temperature gauge give additional support for monitoring the quality of material so that contractors can spot problems early. This system is compatible with all spray foam machine brands and is a valuable addition to decrease stress on the job.
Companies like thesealso innovate on traditional spray foam machines to create their own productsthat address ratio problems. Akurate Dynamics has also created a revolutionaryheated hose that allows temperature control and monitoring in several sectionsso that the quality of material stays consistent even when the weather isn'tcooperating.
Integration withSmartphones
It'd be difficult to ignore the presence of smartphones and tablets in a world that is depending more on technology. Sometimes, leaders can't always stay on one job site to make sure the work is done. But having advanced app control over machines and to receive real-time reports on proportioner performance and output makes all the difference. Graco's Reactor 2 line offers this solution with their Graco InSite application that enables contractors to see exactly what is going on at all times. This reporting technology also makes it easier to spot the source of the problem.
Spray Foam EquipmentFor Sale
Intech Equipment and Supply is a full-servicespray foam equipment and parts supplier. Our online store features a massive catalogof trusted industry manufacturers, providing the best in spray foam industryequipment? all backed by our expert service.
Contact us. we'd love to talk with you about your spray foam equipment, rigs, and accessory needs.
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.