For nearly two decades, insulation contractors have relied on hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) blowing agents for closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF) applications. However, those agents can no longer be sold or used anywhere in the United States.
Although the nationwide HFC ban is better for the environment, switching to low global warming potential (GWP) hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blowing agents is proving challenging.
“The foam techs out in the field have been run pretty hard trying to get guys up to speed to learn how to spray this,” says Darren Plowman, business development manager for ICAFe Professional Contractor Rigs (PCR).
While the transition to HFO blowing agents presents challenges, it also offers insulation contractors opportunities to finetune skills and adopt more environmentally friendly practices.
The shift from HFCs to HFOs has posed challenges throughout our industry. While chemists focused on refining formulations, applicators worked to adjust their systems for optimal performance and yields.
Many HFO formulations seem to have a narrower temperature and pressure range than HFC formulations. Additionally, like all polyurethane foam products, HFOs are influenced by ambient conditions during application.
Performance, yield and application issues also are forcing contractors to adapt to new spray techniques. Working with field technicians is proving vital in this transition process.
“Current equipment can handle HFOs. You just need to change how you’re laying it into the wall,” says Plowman, “adjusting the spray parameters, temperatures, pressures, or maybe the mixing chamber you’re using.”
Moving from HFCs to HFOs requires contractors to understand the new blowing agents’ characteristics and how to manage them effectively. Proper training on the job and at industry events can help contractors effectively navigate the change and continue to deliver high quality insulation results.
Keith Van Stavern from TALON Pros will discuss HFOs during Spray Foam Tech Day. The free event co-sponsored by ICAFe PCR and Red Rock Building Products also offers valuable opportunities to gain hands-on experience with new equipment and learn latest about building science codes, material cost calculations and takeoff services.
