Gun for polyurethane foam: nuances of choice and review of popular models

Hands from the right place | 09.22.2015

Today, any type of construction and repair work cannot be imagined without the use of polyurethane foam.
And this is truly the best sealant for various types of cracks and an irreplaceable material when installing door and window frames. However, for more efficient use of a foam container, it is recommended to use a special foam gun , the design of which has its own characteristics.

Scope of application and principle of operation

The need to use polyurethane foam, respectively, and the use of a gun used to spray it, arises when performing various types of repair and construction work, such as:

• sealing joints of various building structures, furniture or technical devices;
• insulation of structural elements of buildings and structures at the stage of their installation (windows, doors, roofing, enclosing structures, etc.);
• performing installation work related to gluing various materials to each other (attaching foam plastic and other insulation materials to the building base);
• work related to sound and noise insulation of premises;
• filling voids of various origins and cracks in elements of various structures.

Using a foam gun when installing plastic windows

The operating principle of this type of gun is based on the fact that a cylinder with polyurethane foam is installed in the adapter of the device, which is in it under pressure in an aerosol state. When the trigger is pressed, the valve mounted on the cylinder opens, and the mounting foam begins to move along the barrel of the gun through a fitting installed at its end. The quantity and speed of aerosol supply is regulated by a special clamp (adjusting screw).

What are the dangers of using foam incorrectly?

The main properties of this material are increased volume, reliable fixation and inertness to most influences. But they are the ones that turn into a problem if you use the foam carelessly. After all, polyurethane foam has specific properties:

• can expand uncontrollably, turning mounted slopes or other interior elements into a pile of garbage;
• sticks to the skin and hair so that it is almost impossible to clean them;
• if it gets on furniture or other surfaces, it can irreparably damage them;
• dangerous if ingested or in the eyes.

If the foam has dried, it can only be removed mechanically. True, the real effect comes from using the medicinal antiseptic “Dimexide” or battery acid. But these products will dissolve not only polyurethane foam, but also the coating on the surfaces being cleaned.

Compliance with these simple rules will extend the life of the equipment, save expensive materials and preserve the interior. To protect your health, it is advisable to work with gloves and goggles, ventilating the room.

Sectional design of a foam gun

The main design elements of the spray foam gun are the adapter (gearbox), through which the cylinder is installed, and the aerosol supply mechanism, placed in a single housing. All structural elements of such a device are indicated in the section shown in the following figure.

Sectional view of a spray foam gun

This figure shows the following structural elements, namely:

• 1 – nozzle (fitting);
• 2 – trunk;
• 3 – needle rod;
• 4 – adapter;
• 5 – body;
• 6 – through hole;
• 7 – linings;
• 8 – locking nut (adjusting screw);
• 9 – spring;
• 10 – handle;
• 11 – fixing sleeve;
• 12 – trigger.

For your information! The bolt and handle are attached to the pistol body via a threaded connection. The needle rod and the trigger are mechanically connected to each other, and the foam flow is adjusted due to the presence of a pressure spring, a lining and a lock nut. The rotation of the lining sets in motion the bushing, which moves in the axial direction, which, in turn, limits the movement of the needle rod and, as a result, the amount of foam supplied to the nozzle.

Main structural elements of the mounting gun

Briefly about cleaners

To remove frozen mass in guns, manufacturers produce products in the form of aerosols. As a rule, cylinders hold 0.5 liters. liquids. The basic component here is dimethyl ketone. It is effective not only in cleaning tools, but also removes foam residues from hands, clothes and other surfaces well.

When working with the cleaner, it is important to follow a number of rules:

• stay away from fire, heating radiators and sunlight (limit heating to +50 degrees Celsius);
• do not allow liquid to come into contact with mucous membranes and skin;
• ensure good ventilation of the room.

If you use cleaners for fresh polyurethane foam, they do an excellent job of treating valves on cylinders, adapters on guns, and internal cavities on individual elements of devices.

Additionally, many manufacturers produce special napkins. They are impregnated with a product that can remove small remnants of fresh foam. Their purpose is to process the outer part of the tool.

Main technical characteristics

When choosing a gun model for polyurethane foam, of course, you should know what technical characteristics you should pay special attention to, because... The ease of use and service life of such devices depends on this. The main technical characteristics for such a tool are:

• ability to maintain tightness, depending on the type of valves used;
• material used in the manufacture of the body and main structural elements.

Professional model "Tytan Professional Gun Standard Max"

The ability to ensure tightness determines the quality of the gun’s operation, expressed in the accuracy of dosing and preventing the foam from drying out in the gun. Various types of plastic and metal are used in the manufacture of tools. Models for professional use are made of impact-resistant plastic and metal.

Important! Guns made of metal are easy to maintain, reliable and have a long service life.

Popular models and their prices

The following products are popular among professionals and are included in the rating of the highest quality:

• Hilti. This manufacturer offers models for home use and for professional builders. Prices range from 650 to 1200 rubles.

Hilti CF DS1.

• Bison This brand produces all-metal air guns, including those with Teflon coating. Cost from 400 to 1350 rubles.

This review will help you choose the best foam gun. Which one is better can be decided solely by experience, but the models listed are among the most common and reliable.

How to choose a gun for polyurethane foam

If it is necessary to carry out work using polyurethane foam, the question arises of purchasing a mounting gun for spraying it.

The ability to disassemble the spray foam gun greatly simplifies its maintenance

In this case, the criteria for choosing such a tool will be the following parameters:

1. Purpose and nature of use - for a one-time use, you should not buy a professional tool, and for performing a large volume of work, a household model will not cope with the task.
2. Technical characteristics (valve tightness and materials used).
3. Possibility of disassembling the structure to clean the main elements of the device.
4. The availability of spare parts depends on the reliability of the manufacturer and its demand.

Insulation of interior partitions using polyurethane foam and a professional gun

Gun cost and manufacturers

As for the prices for this tool, they can cost 10 dollars (and there is no guarantee that it will work), and 20 - 50 USD. In the latter case, you will purchase a professional quality product. And naturally, it is advisable to purchase it not on the market, but in specialized stores.

Manufacturers include O (Belarus) and Workman (Canada). They are followed by Stayer, Hilti and Kraftool. The last group of manufacturers produces quite good products. However, there are many fakes. The original models last a long time. And fakes give up after the first use. Therefore, it is advisable to be alert and purchase pistols from trusted stores.

We wish you success and pleasure from using a professional, high-quality tool. May every day bring you satisfaction from your work and joy from the results obtained.

Professional models of spray foam guns

The domestic professional tool market offers models of spray foam guns manufactured by foreign and Russian manufacturers. The most popular among them are products from such (Germany) and “Matrix” (China-Germany), “Hilti” (Liechtenstein), as well as “FINCH INDUSTRIAL TOOLS CANADA INC.” (Canada) and “Zubr” (Russia).

"Kraftool Celnometal"

Appearance of the “Kraftool Celnometal” model

The model is characterized by ease of maintenance, functionality and reliability, which is confirmed by reviews from real users.

In addition, the model has a Teflon coating on the nozzle and sealant supply regulator, which greatly simplifies maintenance of the tool.

Review of the “Kraftool Celnometal” model:

More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3534498.html

"Hilti CF DS1"

Appearance of the Hilti CF DS1 model

Distinctive features of the model are low weight and high quality workmanship.

The presence of a thin nose and the possibility of use in different planes make this model one of the best in the professional tool segment.

Review of the Hilti CF DS1 model:

More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3367215.html

"Matrix 88669"

Appearance of the gun for polyurethane foam model “Matrix 88669”

The model is popular due to its reliability and trouble-free operation.

The body is coated with Teflon, which makes cleaning the gun much easier, and the presence of two limiting handles makes use safe from injury.

"FIT 14270"

Appearance of the model “FIT 14270”

A distinctive feature of this model is the high quality of the materials used and the assembly performed. This gun can be used by both professionals and for personal use, and the presence of special attachments expands its functionality.

Review of the model “FIT 14270”:

More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3305815.html

"Zubr Turbo 4-06877"

Model "Zubr Turbo 4-06877"

The model is affordable and can be used by amateurs and professionals. The cylinder holder is treated with a special coating, and the polishing of the inner surface of the barrel facilitates the process of servicing the product.

Pistol selection

Manufacturers present many models that differ in durability, reliability and quality.

What you should pay attention to when selecting a tool:

1. Material. The price of the tool and its performance directly depend on this.

Pistols can be made from:

Inexpensive plastic. Plastic tools are used for a short period of time, and their quality leaves much to be desired.

• Durable polymer. This material is not inferior in characteristics to metal, but has less weight.
• Metal. The guns are quite easy to use, reliable, and can be disassembled and cleaned.

Teflon coated metal. Despite the high cost, this tool is worthy of praise. He belongs to professional models. The most important feature is the easy removal of polyurethane foam from the gun parts.

1. Possibility of disassembling and replacing components. Models that can be disassembled and repaired cost a decent amount, but their service life exceeds non-disassembled devices, which are practically disposable. The instructions for the gun will tell you how to disassemble the structure. In the event of a breakdown, spare parts are available for sale: adapter, seals, rod, etc.

1. Tightness. This characteristic determines how quickly the tool will dry out. You can check the gun using a cleaner. After installing it in the adapter, pull the trigger. If the liquid is sprayed under pressure and there are no leaks anywhere, the tool is sealed.
2. The kit includes mechanisms that allow you to regulate the speed and amount of foam supplied.
3. Weight. Lightweight models make work easier.
4. Manufacturer. The market offers a wide range of tools produced by reputable factories.

Best Foam Gun Manufacturers

Let's look at several models of pistols that are produced by well-known brands:

Hilti.

The Hilti instrument is distinguished by its quality, but is also priced accordingly. The Hilti CF-DS 1 polyurethane foam gun is distinguished by its ergonomics, comfortable anatomical handle with an anti-slip effect.

The trigger is quite large, designed for two fingers, which allows you to work with gloves. The professional foam gun has a safety lock that blocks the trigger from being pressed spontaneously when dropped or transported. The cost of the device is about 3 thousand rubles.

Soudal.

The Soudal company produces not only high-quality foam, but also guns for its use. The manufacturer's line includes several models that differ in configuration. Their cost varies from 800 to 2500 thousand rubles.

For example, the Soudal Professional tool (shown in the photo) has the ability to adjust the needle length. It is made of metal and has an ergonomic handle. During operation, the smooth movement of the trigger ensures accuracy and efficiency.

Stayer.

The Standard model is made of plastic, but has valves (ball and needle) made of stainless steel. The cost of the tool is 700 rubles.

Blast.

The Blast Hard model, made in China, is a lightweight tool that is comfortable and easy to use. The body is made of durable aluminum alloy, which allows it to be used for a long time. The cost of the device is 700 rubles.

Bison

The company offers a good range of equipment and tools, which are characterized by availability and reliability.

The EXPERT TURBO professional pistol has a Teflon-coated cylinder holder, needle valve and nozzle, which makes cleaning easy. The tool is sealed and equipped with O-rings.

The body is made of metal. The inside of the barrel is polished, which prevents the sealant from hardening in it. The cost of the device is about 600 rubles.

Kraftool.

Kraftool guns made in China belong to the professional tool segment. They are characterized by tightness, reliability and ease of use; the cost of different models varies between 500...1800 rubles. The Kraftool Industrie model tops the rating of professional models.

Tytan.

The Titan company offers good all-metal pistols. The price for some models can reach up to 2.6 thousand rubles.

A high-quality spray foam gun will significantly increase work productivity and help optimize foam consumption. In order for a tool to serve for a long time, it is necessary to take a responsible approach to its choice and follow the technology of use and care.

Household spray foam guns

Among the models intended for one-time work rather than professional use, the most popular are the following models (Russia) and “Biber” (Germany), “STAYER” and “BLAST” (China).

"Biber Master 60111"

Appearance of the model “Biber Master 60111”

The model is distinguished by its affordable price and at the same time high technical performance, allowing the gun to be used even under intensive operating conditions.

"PIT P7000003"

Model “PIT P7000003”

A mounting gun from Chinese manufacturers is the best product for performing one-time jobs. In the model, all elements are made of plastic, with the exception of the barrel and valve, which made it possible to reduce the cost of the product and reduce its weight.

Review of the model “PIT P7000003”:

More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_2201679.html

"Stayer Master EconoMax 06861"

Stayer Master EconoMax model

This model is distinguished by its unpretentiousness in use, which is due to its simplicity, as well as its ability to be used for a long time, because only high-quality materials are used in production.

Review of the model “Stayer Master EconoMax 06861”:

More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3508147.html

"Blast Extra Lite 590024"

Appearance of a disposable gun for polyurethane foam “Blast Extra Lite”

The model is one of the cheapest of all offered on the domestic market.

In addition, thanks to the maximum possible use of plastic, the product turned out to be the lightest in comparison with analogues of the same type.

Review of the model “Blast Extra Lite 590024”:

More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_2048118.html

How to use a spray foam gun correctly

A spray foam gun is a fairly simple tool to use, so to use it correctly you need to know a few basic rules:

• the container with polyurethane foam should be located on top, if possible in a vertical plane, because otherwise, the gas may come out, or its pressure will not be enough to spray the contents of the cylinder;
• before use and during a long operating cycle, the foam can must be shaken a certain number of times;

Expert's point of view

Dmitry Kholodok

Technical director of repair and construction

Ask a Question

“Before starting work, the foam can should be shaken at least 20 times, and during work - in accordance with the need.”

The foam canister should always be located on top of the gun

• before installing the can, the adjusting screw must be closed all the way, and after installation, open it ½ turn and press the trigger, thereby checking its functionality;
• during operation, the sealant supply speed is set by an adjusting screw;
• an open container cannot be disconnected from the gun until the foam is completely used up, otherwise it will dry out;
• After finishing using the can, the gun should be cleaned.

Before applying foam, the surface must be cleaned of dust, dirt and foreign objects

You can learn how to use a foam gun by watching the following video.

Benefits of using gun foam

The use of pistol foam compared to the use of household spray cans has a number of advantages. The main one is the precisely adjusted amount of sealing material supplied to the surface being treated. In addition, quite long breaks in work are possible. Polyurethane foam in a pistol device does not harden much longer than in a can with a straw.

The long barrel of the gun allows for treatment of hard-to-reach areas; the supply of foam through the nozzle is much smoother than through a plastic tube

This is very important when filling large cavities layer-by-layer and when it is necessary to apply sealant vertically

The plasticity indicators of professional foam are better than those of household foam; due to this and more accurate dosage, the material is consumed more economically.

How does a pistol work?

The design of the foam gun is quite simple. The main components of its design are:

• Threaded or snap-on fastening to a container of polyurethane foam. A valve with a pin is placed on it.
• Foam outlet opening mechanism. It is manufactured in hammer form.
• A device that regulates the supply of material. It is made in the form of a screw.
• Outlet tube. Foam is supplied through it.
• Pistol grip. It should fit comfortably in your hand.

The more metal parts there are in a gun, the more reliable it is to use. This is especially true for the parts of its design that are subject to the greatest operational loads.

Preparing and replacing the canister, installing the gun

Before installing the can on the gun, the material must be prepared. To do this, the following procedures are performed:

• The container is heated in water to operating temperature and shaken vigorously to bring the active substance to a uniform consistency. This is done to ensure a uniform release of material.
• The pistol device is positioned with the handle down; a cylinder with a previously removed protective cap is screwed or snapped on top. A hissing sound indicates the beginning of the foam release process.
• Using the adjustment screw, pressing the trigger mechanism ensures that the foam comes out at normal density. The first portions are sent to a plastic bag to bleed excess air from the system.

Before replacing the cylinder, the design parts of the pistol device must be cleaned of dirt. To do this, perform the following manipulations:

• the trigger mechanism is pressed to release excess pressure in the system;
• a container with a cleaning solution is installed on the pistol device;
• Rinse several times for about ten seconds until a clean solution comes out;
• structural elements are lubricated.

Rules for working with pistol foam

Pistol foam is applied to the surfaces to be treated evenly in the direction from the left side to the right or vertically from the bottom to the top. The cavity is filled by half or a third of the volume in accordance with the expansion coefficient of the material. If it is necessary to seal seams on the ceiling, the barrel of the gun is extended using a flexible tube so that the can is placed under the ceiling. The length of the applied layer should not exceed ten, and the thickness - four centimeters. The next layer is applied after the initial hardening of the previous one.

As it cures, gun foam expands and puts pressure on adjacent surfaces, which can cause them to deform. As a result, if there is a need to fill through gaps, polyurethane foam is poured only on one side, and on the opposite side, a different sealant is used, most often silicone-based.

During the work process, it is necessary to ensure that the end of the gun barrel is always placed inside the applied layer of sealing material. The hardened foam is cleaned using a rag moistened with acetone or another solvent. A specially selected video clearly demonstrates the described process.