Right use and tips for air-driven foam blaster

The most popular method of spraying pre-wash or washing products in our country in recent years is the use of metallic or stainless steel foamers, with the 50-liter capacity being the first choice. These tanks are directly connected to the air circuit. The tanks are filled with water and the appropriate detergent from the supply on the upper side (funnel). Ideally, we first fill with water and then add the appropriate amount of chemical to avoid excessive foaming and losing the material. The filling is not done when the tank overflows, but when the level indicator (transparent side tube) shows that it has been filled. The remaining space in the tank is necessary for air filling and smooth and safe operation. The tanks have a safety valve, meaning that when the air pressure inside the tank exceeds 8 bar, it is released through the safety valve. This can be corrected either by reducing the supply from the main compressor or, if that’s not possible due to the need for higher pressure somewhere in the system, by installing a pressure reducer before the air enters the foamer. For example, if the compressor’s output is 12 bar, it does not necessarily mean that the input to the foamer is the same. It depends on the branching and the distance of the system. Therefore, we proceed with experimentation by gradually lowering the compressor’s output. Foamers usually come with metallic nozzles that are suitable for attachment to the end of the spray gun. The larger the nozzle hole, the higher the foam we can create, and vice versa. If we do not want any foam (just material spraying), we use a plastic spray nozzle instead. At the outlet of the foamer to the spray gun, there is a regulator (+-). This regulator determines the amount of air output in relation to the water-chemical solution. When we increase the air output, we reduce the liquid solution output, while decreasing the air output increases the liquid solution sprayed. When we have reduced air output, we have higher material consumption and lower foaming capacity, or even none at all. Conversely, excessive air output creates too much foam and clogs the outlet, causing characteristic operational interruptions. Therefore, depending on the chemical type and air pressure of the system, adjusting the output is crucial for the proper operation of the foamer. When this adjustment is made, the result may not be immediately visible. Allow time for adjustment while pressing the spray gun to observe the result of your adjustment. In a typical foaming operation, a 50-liter bottle can cover 12 to 17 standard vehicles. It is essential to always have a small filter (mesh) installed on the spray gun for safe use on the vehicle. This is because, due to oxidation (especially in metal bottles), pieces of rust begin to be sprayed from the tank, and if not stopped by the filter, they may end up on the vehicle's surface. If this goes unnoticed and a sponge is used afterward, it may cause damage to the vehicle's surface. After considerable use of the tank, frequent cleaning (emptying from the lower side, which usually has a draining hole with a screw) is recommended to remove oxidations. Typically, metal tanks that remain filled with solution continuously start to create oxidations and holes after about two years of use. Ideally, they should be emptied after each job to increase their lifespan. Another factor that can change the operation of the foamer is the change in the length and diameter of the hose that connects the tank to the spray gun. Never try to open the funnel cap of the foamer while it is full of air. Always empty it first through the air release valve. We hope this article was interesting to you. Always at your disposal for further information.