FOAM FACT FRIDAY
Foam Fact #6
If your proportioner seems to be lacking heat be sure the primary heaters are running at full strength
Proper primary heater performance is necessary for proper yield.
Most spray foam proportioners use multiple heater rods, typically 2 to 4 rods, in each heater block to provide the total heater wattage for each heater. There can be situations where not all the rods are functioning, reducing the Delta-T capability of each heater. This may occur without an error or alarm occurring to alert the user. Since it is common to measure temperature using a single rod on the outlet of each heater the temperature control may appear normal if that rod is working. But if one of the other heater rods is not working properly you may not see any indication of this on the heater control display.
In warm climates or in summer months you may not notice any effect in yield or performance, however in colder climates and/or winter months you may see a poor spray pattern or reduced yield.
It is worthwhile to take the time to measure the amperage to each heater, or the combined resistance to each heater, and to compare results. The amperage draw or total combined resistance should be the same for each A or B primary heater. If the amperage is lower, or the combined total resistance is higher, when comparing the two heaters this would indicate a missing heating element in that grouping. If this is the case, further investigation should be done to identify the exact problem. The necessary steps should be made to resolve the issue.
When troubleshooting your equipment remember to read, understand and follow all instruction manuals and warning labels supplied with all equipment. Only trained and qualified personnel should perform repairs on the equipment.
