FOAMit FI-5N-SM 5-Gallon Smart Foam Unit User Manual
- June 5, 2024
- FOAMit
Table of Contents
USER MANUAL
MODEL NUMBER:
FI-5N-SM
FI-5NK-SM
FI-5NV-SM
AND RELATED UNITS
5 Gallon Smart Foam Unit
Original Instructions
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT
WARNING
Read this manual completely and understand the machine before operating or servicing it.
- Read all instructions before installing or operating the unit.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating or servicing the unit.
- Always follow all chemical safety precautions and handling instructions provided by the chemical manufacturer and Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
- If this unit is modified or serviced with parts not listed in this manual, the unit may not operate correctly.
- Never point the discharge wand at yourself, another person, or any object you do not want to be covered in chemicals.
- Always keep the air trigger port clean and free of blockages or debris. If the port becomes dirty or blocked, disconnect the compressed air source from the unit immediately and clean out the port before proceeding.
- Always keep the discharge hose free of kinks or obstructions.
- Always rinse and drain the unit after use (as described in the After Use Instructions). Always store the unit disconnected from the compressed air source.
- Do not exceed an incoming air pressure of 100 psi (7 bar).
- Do not exceed a fluid temperature of 100˚F (37˚C).
- Always flush the unit with fresh water for 5 minutes when switching from an alkaline to an acid or an acid to alkaline.
- Only use clean and dry air. Air must be filtered and free of moisture or pump life will be diminished. If needed, install a water separator (WS-20CFM) before the unit.
- Do not use an air lubricator 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.
*** Always remember to recycle.
Specifications and parts are subject to change without notice.
OPTIONS
Pump Seal Material
FI-5N| Santoprene (standard)| -SM
Viton (V)
Kalrez (K)
Add bold option codes to the item number as shown. For standard options, no
option code is needed.
Examples:
•Fl-5N-SM (standard unit with Santoprene pump seals)
•Fl-SNV-SM (unit with Viton pump seals)
REQUIREMENTS
Compressed air requirements | 40-80 psi (3-5 bar) with 5-10 cfm (141-283 1/min) |
---|---|
Liquid temperature range | 40-100°F (4.4-37°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 |
Capacity | 5 gallons (22.02 liters) |
Discharge hose diameter/length | 20 ft. (9.1 m) bonded hose, with 5/8 in. (15.9 |
mm) and 1/4 in. (6.4 mm) inside diameter
Discharge wand/tip type| Ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene
handle and wand extension, with 65 fan tip and built-in zero tip
Output distance| With zero tips: 17-21 ft. (5.2 m — 6.4 m)
With fan tip (ST65150): 16-20 ft. (4.9 m — 6.1 m)
Output volume| With zero tip: 20-32 gal/min (75-1211/min) of foam
With fan tip (ST65150): 20-32 gal/min (75-1211/min) of foam
Flow rate*| 2 gal/min (7.6 1/min)
Pump seals| Santoprene, Viton, or Kalrez
Wheel type| Two 3-inch non-marking wheels
*Dilution rates and flow rates given are based on chemicals with a viscosity of water and factory air pressure settings.
Operation Instructions:
-
Follow all instructions from the chemical manufacturer.
Fill the tank with water and the advised percentage of chemical concentrate. -
Verify that the air trigger port is clean and free of blockages or debris, and the discharge hose is not kinked or obstructed.
-
With the wand pointed in a safe direction, connect an air line to the air inlet fitting (AP25).
Note: When you connect the airline, listen for any sound from the unit. If you hear the pump activate and begin to cycle, disconnect the airline immediately. This indicates that there is a blockage or other problem somewhere in the system, which could cause the unit to activate spontaneously. The problem must be addressed before proceeding (see “Troubleshooting Instructions”). -
Place thumb over the air trigger to activate the unit and begin foaming.
-
While the unit is running and discharging product, adjust the needle valve (NV14Y) as needed to regulate the wetness or dryness of the foam following the steps below:
a. Close needle valve completely in a clockwise direction.
b. Open needle valve in counter-clockwise direction 2 complete turns.
c. Continue to open needle valve in ¼ turn increments, allowing 30 seconds between adjustments, until desired consistency of foam is achieved. -
Release the air trigger to stop foaming.
Note: When you release the air trigger, the unit will shut off and depressurize. Foam that is already in the discharge hose may seep out, but no more foam will be created until you cover the air trigger again.
After Use Instructions:
- Rinse the unit tank thoroughly with fresh water. Then fill the tank with fresh water.
- Activate the unit and allow it to run for 2-4 minutes, or until all chemical has been flushed from the system.
- Disconnect the air line from the air fitting (AP25).
- Allow any liquid remaining in the discharge hose to drain out through the discharge wand before storing the unit.
Maintenance Instructions:
To keep your unit operating properly, periodically perform the following
maintenance procedures:
Note: Before performing any maintenance, ensure that the unit has been
disconnected from the air supply according to the “After Use Instructions.”
Also, ensure that the unit tank is empty.
- Inspect the air pump (P56/P56K/P56V) for wear and leaks.
- Inspect all hoses for leaks or excessive wear. Make sure all hose clamps are in good condition and properly secured.
- Check the air trigger port on the handle for debris and clean as needed. When cleaning, be careful not to push debris into the port, as it may become lodged inside and create a blockage.
- Clean and replace the filter (AFR25) located within the air regulator (R25) as needed. Access the filter by unthreading the air regulator bowl (ABR25) from the air regulator (R25).
- Check the suction line and strainer (STR38-IL) for debris or blockages, and 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, you may wish to install a water separator (WS-20CFM) before the unit.
Troubleshooting Instructions:
-
Check to ensure that the discharge hose is uncoiled properly and that there are no kinks that could obstruct fluid flow.
-
Check the suction line and strainer for debris or damage.
Clean or replace as needed. To prevent damage to the unit, the strainer (STR38-IL) must always be used. -
Check the air regulator bowl (ABR25) and air filter (AFR25) for debris such as water, oil, or dust particles. Clean by unthreading the air regulator bowl (ABR25) from the air
regulator (R25). -
If the needle valve (NV14Y) is open too far, the pump (P56/P56K/P56V) may cycle improperly due to lack of air pressure. If this occurs, close and readjust the needle valve (NV14Y) as described in the Operation Instructions.
-
Make sure proper foaming chemicals and concentrations are being used.
-
If air passes through the pump (P56/P56K/P56V) without cycling, the pump needs to be replaced.
-
If the solution backs up into the air regulator bowl (ABR25), the check valve (CV38) needs to be replaced.
-
If foam comes out wet, no matter where the needle valve (NV14Y) is positioned, the check valve (CV38) may need to be replaced.
-
Check for proper air pressure on the air gauge (AG100).
The air regulator (R25) is factory set at 50 psi (3.4 bar).
The operating range is 40 to 80 psi (3 to 5 bar) with 5 to 10 CFM (141.6 to 283.3 l/min). -
If the unit operates at reduced pressure:
- Check the air compressor supplying the unit. If the pressure is less than 40 psi, turn the unit off until the compressor can catch up.
- If the air supply is 50 psi (3.4 bar) or above, check the air gauge (AG100), 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 (R25).
- If the problem persists, the stainless steel mixing mesh (SS-MESH) inside the tee fitting (SST12HB38) could be plugged. Remove and clean the mesh following the instructions below:
a. Ensure that the unit has been flushed and disconnected from the air supply according to the “After Use Instructions.” Also ensure that the unit tank is empty, and/or that the valve (PVCV34FM) at the base of the suction line is closed.
b. Remove the stainless hose barb (HBSS1258) from the tee fitting (SST12HB38).
c. The stainless steel mixing mesh (SS-MESH) is located inside the tee fitting (SST12HB38).
Remove the old mesh and the screen that holds it in place. If the mesh and screen are in good condition, they can be cleaned and re-used. If not, they should be replaced with new parts.
d. Insert the new mesh (SS-MESH).
e. Insert the new screen (SSST). Make sure it is seated securely, but not bent or deformed.
f. Reconnect the hose barb (HBSS1258) to the tee fitting (SST12HB38). Attach the 5/8 inch hose to the hose barb (HBSS1258) and secure it with the screw band clamp (SSC58).
g. If you found a lot of particles or blockages inside the mesh, check the suction line strainer (STR38-IL) to make sure it is in place and operating correctly.
-
If the unit activates when the air trigger port is not covered:
1. Verify that the air trigger port is clean and free of blockages or debris, and the discharge hose is not kinked or obstructed.
2. If the problem persists, try bypassing the air trigger.
To do this, disconnect the 1/4 inch hose from the wand. Point the wand in a safe direction and connect an air line to the unit. Then, use your thumb or finger to seal the open port of the 1/4 inch hose at the wand.
a. If the unit activates when you connect the airline, the valve block (SM-PV) may need to be replaced.
b. If the unit does not activate when you connect the airline, the hose or wand assembly may need to be replaced. -
If the unit does not activate when the air trigger port is covered:
1. Confirm the incoming air supply is consistently 50 psi (3.4 bar) on the air gauge (AG100).
2. If the problem persists, the valve block (SM-PV) may need to be replaced.
TANK ASSEMBLY
ITEM NUMBER: TANK-5N-A
WAND ASSEMBLY
ITEM NUMBER: SMWA| DISCHARGE HOSE ASSEMBLY
ITEM NUMBER: H5814-20
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|
BACKPLATE
ITEM NUMBER: PA-PF-SM
BACKPLATE
Outside View
ITEM NUMBER | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|
AG100 | 1.5 INCH DRY MODEL 20 DUAL SCALE GAUGE |
AP25 | PLUG 1/4 NPTM AIR FITTING – BRASS |
BPS-5850 | Back Panel Screw – 5/8 inch with Stand-Off |
BPS-SSR | 1/4 INCH PUSH NUT BOLT RETAINER STAINLESS STEEL |
CSTS-WAS | 4-INCH REPLACEMENT WHEEL FOR CSTSSS AND CST5SS-L |
CV38 | PVC CHECK VALVE 3/8 BARBS – SS SPRING |
EC14-2 | OETIKER CLAMP 13.8 |
EC58 | OETIKER CLAMP 0.625 ID |
FWAX15 | FLAT AXLE WASHER |
FWP12 | 7/8 ID X 1.5 OD X 0.05 THK SSFW |
FWP14 | C-816 1/2in SS WASHER |
H14B-H | 1/4 INCH BLUE HOSE – Available per ft. |
H38B-H | 3/8 INCH BLUE HOSE – Available per ft. |
H5814 | BONDED HOSE 5/8in ID – 1/4in ID |
HBBEL1414 | 1/4 MPT X 1/4 HOSE BARB BRASS 90 DEG |
HBSS1238 | STAINLESS HOSE BARB 1/2mpt X 3/8 barb Tariff 8479.90.9496 |
HBSS1258 | STAINLESS STEEL HOSE BARB 1/2 MPT BY 5/8 INCH BARB |
HBSS1438 | STAINLESS HOSE BARB 1/4 MPT X 3/8 BARB |
HBSS1814 | 1/8 MPT X 1/4 STAINLESS HOSE BARB |
HBSSEL1438 | STAINLESS HOSE BARB ELBOW 1/4 INCH NPT X 3/8 HOSE BARB |
JC35B | BLACK 3.5-INCH WAY VENTED CAP POLYPROPYLENE-EPDM GASKET AND CHECK VALVE |
NV14Y | FLOW CONTROL VALVE – INCLUDES BLACK KNOB |
NV14Y-HNDL | BLACK KNOB FOR NEEDLE VALVE – 2839-1/4 |
P18 | PLUG 1/8 MPT HEX HEAD 304 SS |
P56 | PUMP WITH SANTOPRENE SEALS – INCLUDES HOSE BARBS, AIR FITTING, AND |
EXHAUST BARB
P56K| PUMP WITH KALREZ SEALS – INCLUDES HOSE BARBS, AIR FITTING, AND EXHAUST
BARB
P56V| PUMP WITH VITON SEALS – INCLUDES HOSE BARBS, AIR FITTING, AND EXHAUST
BARB
P56-BRKT| PUMP BRACKET- STAINLESS STEEL
P56-BRKT-SCREW| HI-LO SCREW FOR RETAINING P56-BRKT
PLPF| PORTABLE FOAM ER BACK PLATE W/ HINGE AND HOLES
PLPF-PIN| 302 STAINLESS PORTABLE PLATE HINGE PIN
PW1238| POLY WAND – 1/2 MPT X 3/8 FPT – UHMW
---|---
R25| AIR REGULATOR – 1/4fpt TWO PORT 1/8fpt TWO PORT – INCLUDES FILTER AND
BOWL
ABR25| METAL AIR BOWL for R25
AFR25| AIR FILTER for R25
S142058-VS| 1/4-20 X 5/8 PHIL TRUSS MACHINE SCREW 18-8 W/#516 VIBRASEAL ORANGE
PATCH
SC1212| S.S. COUPLER 1/2in BY 1/2in
SM-PV| PNEUMATIC VALVE FOR SMART TECHNOLOGY UNITS
SMH| HANDLE FOR BONDED HOSE – 1/2in FPT AND 1/8in FPT – UHMW
SN1414| STAINLESS 1/4MPT X 1/4MPT NIPPLE
SSA14| SS304 MALE/FEMALE ADAPTOR 1/4 MPT X 1/4 NPT
SSC14| WORM GEAR CLAMP, SS 1/41N
SSC38| WORM GEAR CLAMP, S/S (.25-.63)
SSC58| WORM GEAR CLAMP, SS 5/8IN
SST12HB38| STAINLESS TEE COMBO 1/2in FPT X 3/8 in BARB WITH SSST AND S.S. MESH
SS-MESH| STAINLESS STEEL MESH WITH SSST FOR REPLACEMENT
SSL| SCREEN DISC .687 DIA. 10 X 10 MESH @ .020 DIA. 300 SERIES S.S.
SS-TAB| STAINLESS STEEL TAB 5/8 x 3/4 WITH 1/4 INCH MOUNTING HOLE
ST65150SS| SPRAY TIP-65 DEGREE-15.0 GPM-STAINLESS-3/8 MPT
STR38-IL| IN-LINE STRAINER 3/8 BARB 20 MESH 304 STAINLESS EDPM GSKT
TANK-5N| 5 GALLON ROTO MOLDED TANK WITH HANDLE
TANK-SN-HNDL| HANDLE FOR TANK-5N
TW916| 1/2 INT TOOTH L/W 41055
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