FOAMit FI-5N 5 Gallon Foam Unit User Manual

: June 15, 2024
: FOAMit

FOAMit FI-5N 5 Gallon Foam Unit

Product Information

Specifications

Model: FI-5N
Capacity: 5 gallons

Safety

WARNING: PEOPLE OR OBJECTS CAN BE HURT OR DAMAGED IF THIS UNIT IS NOT USED CORRECTLY!
Failure to read all the instructions before operating the unit may result in personal injury or death from the improper use or the chemical solution. Anyone handling, operating, or using the unit must read and understand the instructions in the manual. The buyer assumes all responsibility for safety and proper use in accordance with the instructions.
Using or servicing the unit without appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may result in serious injury such as burns, rashes, eye, throat, or lung damage and death. Always wear PPE as indicated in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) when using or servicing the unit. Protect eyes, skin, and lungs against drifting spray.
Chemical solutions may pose a health risk and death if they contact the skin or eyes, are inhaled, or swallowed. Always read and follow all chemical safety precautions and handling instructions provided by the chemical manufacturer and the SDS associated with the chemical solution before using the unit.
Pressure within the equipment may cause an unexpected release of the chemical solution and cause serious injury such as burns, rashes, eye damage, throat or lung damage, and death. Always depressurize and clean the unit after each use. Release any remaining air pressure by opening the discharge ball valve. Never leave the unit unattended while pressurized.
Operating the unit when damaged or leaking may result in exposure to chemical solutions, serious injury, or death. Never use the unit if it is damaged or leaking.
Never point the discharge wand at yourself, another person, or any object you do not want covered in chemical.
Using incoming air pressure exceeding 100 psi (6.9 bar) may result in pressure buildup, explosion, serious injury, or death. DO NOT exceed 100 psi (6.9 bar) incoming air pressure when operating the unit.
Use of hydrocarbons and flammable products may result in explosions, fire, and serious injury or death. Never use hydrocarbons or flammable products with the unit.
Mixing an alkaline with an acid may result in a chemical reaction. Overheating of the mixture may cause it to splatter caustic compounds or release hazardous fumes, gas, and vapors. Always flush the unit with fresh water thoroughly when switching from an alkaline to an acid or an acid to an alkaline.

Product Usage

Step 1: Preparation

1. Ensure you have read and understood all safety instructions.
2. Inspect the unit for any damage or leaks. Do not use the unit if it is damaged or leaking.
3. Prepare the chemical solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.
4. Ensure you have the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as indicated in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the chemical solution.

Step 2: Filling

1. Make sure the unit is depressurized by opening the discharge ball valve to release any remaining air pressure.
2. Remove the lid of the unit.
3. Pour the prepared chemical solution into the unit’s tank. Avoid overfilling.
4. Securely close the lid of the unit.

Step 3: Pressurizing

1. Connect the unit to a suitable air compressor with an incoming air pressure not exceeding 100 psi (6.9 bar).
2. Ensure the air lines are filtered, clean, dry, and free of moisture. Install an air dryer if necessary.
3. Turn on the air compressor and allow the unit to pressurize.

Step 4: Operation

1. Hold the discharge wand firmly.
2. Aim the discharge wand at the target area, ensuring it is not pointed at yourself, another person, or any object you do not want covered in chemical.
3. Squeeze the trigger on the discharge wand to release the foam.
4. Move the discharge wand across the target area, covering it evenly with foam.

Step 5: Depressurizing and Cleaning

1. After use, turn off the air compressor.
2. Open the discharge ball valve to release any remaining air pressure.
3. Remove the lid of the unit.
4. Flush the unit with fresh water thoroughly to remove any remaining chemical solution.
5. Clean all parts of the unit, including the discharge wand, according to the cleaning instructions in the manual.

FAQ

Can I use this unit with flammable products?
No, using this unit with flammable products may result in explosions, fire, and serious injury or death. Never use hydrocarbons or flammable products with the unit.
What should I do if the unit is damaged or leaking?
If the unit is damaged or leaking, do not use it. Operating the unit when damaged or leaking may result in exposure to chemical solutions, serious injury, or death. Contact the manufacturer or a qualified technician for assistance.
How should I clean the unit after use?
After each use, depressurize the unit and open the discharge ball valve to release any remaining air pressure. Remove the lid of the unit and flush it thoroughly with fresh water to remove any remaining chemical solution. Clean all parts of the unit, including the discharge wand, according to the cleaning instructions provided in the manual.

Safety

WARNING
PEOPLE OR OBJECTS CAN BE HURT OR DAMAGED IF THIS UNIT IS NOT USED CORRECTLY!

Failure to read all the instructions before operating the unit may result in personal injury or death from the improper use or the chemical solution. Anyone handling, operating or using the unit must read and understand the instructions in the manual. The buyer assumes all responsibility for safety and proper use in accordance with the instructions.
Using or servicing the unit without appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may result in serious injury such as burns, rashes, eye, throat or lung damage and death. Always wear PPE as indicated in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) when using or servicing the unit. Protect eyes, skin, and lungs against drifting spray.
Chemical solutions may pose a health risk and death if they contact the skin or eyes, are inhaled
or swallowed. Always read and follow all chemical safety precautions and handling instructions provided by the chemical manufacturer and the SDS associated with the chemical solution before using the unit.
Pressure within the equipment may cause an unexpected release of the chemical solution and cause serious injury such as burns, rashes, eye damage, throat or lung damage and death.
Always depressurize and clean the unit after each use. Release any remaining air pressure by opening the discharge ball valve. Never leave the unit unattended while pressurized.
Using the unit with fluid temperatures above 100°F (37.8°C) may result in scalding, burns, serious injury or death. DO NOT use a solution with a temperature above 100°F (37.8°C).
Operating the unit when damaged or leaking may result in exposure to chemical solutions, serious injury or death. Never use the unit if it is damaged or leaking.
Never point the discharge wand at yourself, another person, or any object you do not want covered in chemical.
Using incoming air pressure exceeding 100 psi (6.9 bar) may result in pressure buildup, explosion, serious injury or death. DO NOT exceed 100 psi (6.9 bar) incoming air pressure when operating
the unit.
Use of hydrocarbons and flammable products may result in explosions, fire and serious injury or death. Never use hydrocarbons or flammable products with the unit.
Mixing an alkaline with an acid may result in a chemical reaction. Overheating of the mixture may cause it to splatter caustic compounds or release hazardous fumes, gas and vapors. Always flush the unit with fresh water thoroughly when switching from an alkaline to an acid or an acid to an alkaline.

NOTICE

Servicing or modifying this unit with parts not listed in this manual may cause the unit to operate improperly. Do not use unauthorized parts when servicing the unit.
Use of an air lubricator before the unit may result in diminished performance and damage to the unit. Do not use an air lubricator before the unit.
Moisture in the air lines will damage the pump and diminish the pump life. The air must be filtered, clean, dry and free of moisture. If needed, install an air dryer before the unit.

PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT
Please dispose of packaging materials, old machine components, and hazardous fluids in an environmentally safe way according to local waste disposal regulations

Product Overview

Requirements

Compressed air requirements 40-80 psi (2.8-5.5 bar) with 5-10 CFM (141.6-283.2 l/min)
Liquid temperature range 40-100˚F (4.4-37.8˚C)
Chemical compatibility
- Chemical products used with this equipment must be formulated for this type of application and compatible with unit materials and pump seals.
- For more information on chemical compatibility, consult the manufacturer or SDS for your product or contact our customer service department.

Specifications

Power type Compressed air
Chemical pickup type Draws from pre-mixed solution
Number of products unit can draw from One product
Suction line length/diameter 3.5 ft. (1 m) hose with ⅜ in. (12.7 mm) inside diameter
Capacity 5 gallons (113.6 liters)
Discharge line length/diameter 20 ft. (6.1 m) hose, with ½ in. (19 mm) inside diameter
Discharge wand/tip type 7 in. (17.8 cm) stainless steel wand with zero tip and ball valve
Output distance 15-20 ft. (4.6-6.1 m)
Output volume 15-30 gal/min (56.8-113.6 l/min)
**Flow rate*** 2-2.3 gal/min (7.6-8.7 l/min)
Pump seals Santoprene, Viton, or Kalrez
Wheel type Two 4 inch (10.2 cm) non-marking wheels

Product Components

Get to know the FI-5N components that you will need to use, adjust or assemble.

Back plate assembly

Inside view

In-line strainer
Quick-change pump
Needle valve
Air regulator
Air pressure gauge
Check valve
Tee assembly
Back plate thumb nuts

Tank Assembly

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIGFOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-
FIG-3-3

9. Handle
10. Solution tank
11. Cap
12. Discharge wand
13. Discharge ball valve
14. Discharge hose
14. Discharge wand
15. Needle valve
16. Air fitting

Using your unit

Operating Instructions

Following all instructions from chemical manufacturer, fill the solution tank with pre-mixed solution.
Verify cap is securely tighted.
With the discharge ball valve in the closed position, plug an air line into the air fitting.
Slowly open the discharge ball valve to begin foaming. Discharge ball valve should be completely open while foaming.
While the unit is running and discharging product, adjust the needle valve as needed to regulate the wetness or dryness of the foam following the steps below:
- Close needle valve completely in clockwise direction.
- Open needle valve in counter-clockwise direction 3 complete turns.
- Continue to open needle valve in ¼ turn increments, allowing 30 seconds between adjustments, until desired consistency of foam is achieved.
Close the discharge ball valve to stop foaming.

After Use Instructions
NOTE: For proper handling and disposal procedures refer to chemical SDS.

Solution should be removed from unit after each use. This can be done in two ways:
- Unthread drain plug from front of tank and drain solution into approved location.
- Place discharge wand into approved container to transfer remaining solution. Turn the needle valve to the wet setting and activate unit until all solution has been flushed from the system.
After solution has been removed, disconnect air line from the air fitting.
Open discharge ball valve to relieve remaining pressure.
Close ball valve after all pressure has been relieved. Store unit with discharge ball valve closed.
Before using unit with another chemistry, thoroughly flush with water.

Maintenance

WARNING
Performing any maintenance with the unit pressurized, and connected to the air supply may result in serious injury or death. Always ensure that the unit has been depressurized, and disconnected from the air supply before conducting any maintenance. Servicing or modifying this unit with parts not listed in this manual may cause the unit to operate improperly. Do not use unauthorized parts when servicing the unit.

Maintaining Your Unit
To keep your unit operating properly, periodically perform the following maintenance procedures:

Inspect the pump for wear and leaks.
Inspect all hoses for leaks or excessive wear. Make sure all hose clamps are in good condition and properly secured.
Replace the filter located within the air regulator as needed. Clean by unthreading the air regulator bowl from the air regulator.
Check the suction line and strainer for debris. Clean as needed.
Drain your air compressor tank on a regular basis to help extend pump life. An air source with a high moisture content will accelerate pump wear.
Note: If your air source has a high moisture content, install a water separator to the air fitting on the backplate.

Servicing Your Unit
To service your unit, refer to the service manual which includes:

Troubleshooting procedures.
Detailed parts breakdowns and illustrations.
Part numbers of serviceable components and assemblies.

Troubleshooting Your Unit

If your unit is not operating properly, try using these troubleshooting tips:

Air regulator bowl or air filter has debris such as water, oil, or rust particles
• Clean by unthreading the air regulator bowl from the air regulator.
Pump is cycling improperly
- The needle valve is open too far. Close and readjust the needle valve as described in the operation section.
- Ensure proper foaming chemical and concentration are being used.
Air passes through the pump without cycling
The pump needs to be replaced.
The solution backs up into the air regulator bowl
The check valve needs to be replaced.
Foam comes out wet, no matter where the needle valve is positioned
- Check for proper air pressure on the air gauge. The air regulator is factory set at 50 psi (3.4) bar. Operating range is 40 to 80 psi (2. 8 to 5.5 bar) with 5 to 10 CFM (141.6 to 283.3 l/min).
- The check valve may need to be replaced.
- Verify correct chemical concentration is being used.
The unit operates at a reduced pressure
- Check suction line and strainer for debris or damage. Clean or replace as needed. To prevent damage to the unit, the strainer must always be used.
- Check the air compressor supplying the unit. If the pressure is less than 40 psi (2.8 bar), turn off the unit until the compressor can catch up.
- If the air supply is 50 psi (3.4 bar) or above, check the air gauge, which should read near 50 psi (3.4 bar). If the air gauge reads more or less than 50 psi (3.4 bar), adjust the pressure by turning the knob on the top of the air regulator.
- Check if the stainless steel mixing mesh is plugged. Remove and clean it by following the instructions below:
1. Verify the unit is not plugged into an air supply and then relieve all stored pressure in the unit by turning the ball valve to the open position.
2. Remove discharge hose from hose barb on back of the unit.
3. Open back plate assembly and hold stainless tee with wrench to remove hose barb from tee fitting.
4. Remove the screen and the mixing mesh from inside the tee fitting.
5. Clean any particles from the mixing mesh and the screen. If the mixing mesh has a lot of foreign particles in it, make sure the suction strainer is still in place.
6. Replace the mixing mesh and screen into the back of the tee. Screw the stainless hose barb back into the tee.
  NOTE: It is recommended to use a pipe thread sealant when reinstalling the stainless hose barb back into the tee fitting.

Tank Assembly

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-6

TNKA-5N-BK:
5 gallon natural tank assembly – black* lid – includes handle, wheels, and backplate thumb nuts

BPTNA:
Back plate thumb nut assembly – includes bolt, thumbnut, and tether

CSTA-5WHL:
5 in. caster wheel – includes bolt and washers

Back Plate Assembly

Inside view

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-10

PA-PF12:
Plate assembly for portable foam units with ½ in. hose – Santoprene pump

Additional plate assembly pump options:

PA-PF12K: Kalrez pump
PA-PF12V: Viton pump

1. A **P56** Pump with Santoprene seals – includes hose barbs, air fitting, and exhaust barb

B P56K Pump with Kalrez seals – includes hose barbs, air fitting, and exhaust barb
C P56V Pump with Viton seals – includes hose barbs, air fitting, and exhaust barb

2.  **NV14** Needle valve – ¼ in. NPT – includes black knob
3. R25 Air regulator – two ¼ in. FPT ports – two ⅛ in. FPT ports – includes filter and bowl
4.  **AG100** Air gauge – ⅛ in. NPT – 100 PSI dry model
5.  **CV38-AP** Check valve – ⅜ in. barbs – PVC body – Hastelloy spring – Teflon ball – white
6.  **SSC38** Stainless screw band clamp for ⅜ in. hose
7.  **SST12HB38A-MX** Stainless tee assembly – ½ in.

FPT x ⅜ in. barb – includes mixing material and screen

8.  **STR38-IL** In-line strainer – ⅜ barb – EPDM gasket – 20 mesh SS – black bowl
9.  **H14BL-F** ¼ in. blue hose – hybrid TPE – available per ft.
10.  **H38BL-F** ⅜ in. blue hose – hybrid TPE – available per ft.

Back view

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-10

PA-PF12:
Plate assembly for portable foam units with ½ in. hose – Santoprene pump

Additional plate assembly pump options:

PA-PF12K: Kalrez pump
PA-PF12: Viton pump

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-11

Optional Components
WSA-20CFM:
Water separator assembly – 20 CFM – ¼ in. FPT ports – includes air plug and union fittings

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-12

Back Plate Sub-assemblies

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-13

NVA-NV14-PF:
Needle valve assembly for portable foam units – includes hose barbs, and screw band clamps

SST12HB38A-MX:
Stainless tee assembly – ½ in. FPT x ⅜ in. barb – includes mixing material and screen

RGA-R25-PF:

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-16

Air regulator assembly for portable foam units – includes air gauge, pump barb, hose, bulkhead fittings, and air plug

HBB14P ¼ in. hose barb – brass – for G57/P56air fitting with o-ring
EC14 Oetiker clamp for ¼ in. hose
H14BL-F ¼ in. blue hose – hybrid TPE -available per ft.
HBSSEL1814 Stainless hose barb ⅛ MPT x ¼barb elbow
SSC38 Stainless screw band clamp for⅜ in. hose
H38BL-F ⅜ in. blue hose – hybrid TPE -available per ft.
HBSSEL1438 Stainless hose barb ¼ MPT x ⅜ barb elbow
R25 Air regulator – two ¼ in. FPT ports -two ⅛ in. FPT ports – includes filter and bowl
AG100 Air gauge – ⅛ in. NPT – 100 PSI dry model
SSA14BKH Bulkhead adapter – stainless – ¼ NPT x ¼ NPSM
SSSFN12 Serrated flange nut – stainless – ½ in.
AP14 Air fitting ¼ MPT x plug – nickelplated brass

Suction Assembly

FOAMit-FI-5N-5-Gallon-Foam-Unit-FIG-17

SCTNA-PF-TNK5:
Suction assembly for portable foam units – includes hose, in-line strainer, and pump hose barb – for Santoprene pump

Additional suction assembly options:

SCTNA-PFK-TNK5: Portables with Kalrez pump
SCTNA-PFV-TNK5: Portables with Viton pump

1. A HB5638 Hose barb for P56 pump – EPDM o-ring

B HB5638K Hose barb for P56K pump – Kalrez o-ring
C HB5638V Hose barb for P56V pump – Viton o-ring

2. STR38-IL In-line strainer – ⅜ barb – EPDM gaske- 20 mesh SS – black bowl
3. SSC38 Stainless screw band clamp for ⅜ in.hose
4. H38BL-F ⅜ in. blue hose – hybrid TPE – availableper ft.
5. HBSS1238 Stainless hose barb ½ MPT x ⅜ barb