Visit Graco at an Upcoming Tradeshow

ICAA Convention & Trade Show

Hilton El Conquistador, Tucson, AZ / Oct. 1-3, 2009

This is the premier gathering of insulation contractors, suppliers, and service companies to the insulation contracting industry. The ICAA show is the only event in the insulation industry that features cutting-edge educational sessions and an explosion of product choice among insulation suppliers. Visit Graco at booth #25.

World of Concrete
Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV / Feb. 1-5, 2010

World of Concrete is the industry's ONLY annual international event dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries. Featuring indoor and outdoor exhibits with leading industry suppliers showcasing innovative products and technologies, exciting demonstrations and competitions, a world-class education program, and the information you need to help sustain and grow your business. Visit Graco at booth # S11127.

PACE

Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, AZ / Feb. 8-10, 2010

This is the industry’s premiere paint and coatings show with more than 300 exhibits of innovative products, tools and technology to help you succeed. This show is a must for anyone involved in the paint and high-performance coatings industry, with workshops, educational business and technical sessions.

Spray Foam
Orlando World Center Marriott, Orlando, FL / Feb. 14-17, 2010

This is a “don’t-miss” event. Feb. 14 – 15 will be the training and accreditation program days, and February 16 – 17 are general sessions, breakout sessions, Annual Contractor Awards Ceremony, exhibit hall, networking receptions and more!

PDA 2010 Annual Conference

Orlando, FL / April 13-15, 2010

The Polyurea Development Association (PDA) is the trade association for the global polyurea industry. PDA was formed in 2000 by leading companies involved in all aspects of polyurea. It is PDA’s mission to promote market awareness, understanding and acceptance of polyurea technology through the development of education programs, product standards, safety and environmental and use recommendations.

Update on Graco Mobile Spray Rigs

Graco has discontinued its mobile spray rig manufacturing operation effective Sept. 25, 2009. Graco will continue to provide quality foam and coating proportioners and other Graco manufactured items such as guns, hoses, supply pumps and agitators for use in mobile spray systems.

“We’d like to thank everyone for supporting this business unit of Graco,” says John Tate, North America Sales Manager, Coatings and Foam Equipment. “It was a difficult decision, but our objective is to provide contractors with the most innovative spray foam equipment on the market, and so we are going to remain focused on new product development.”

The deadline to place a trailer order or truck modification orders was Sept. 25, 2009. All trucks must be present at the North Canton, Ohio facility on or by Oct. 15, 2009 in order to be completed as committed. Trucks arriving after that date will be turned away.

Please continue to work with your Graco Area Manager to place orders for other key mobile spray rig components such as generator/compressor combo units and air dryers. These items and all other components are all available until inventory is exhausted on a first come, first served basis.

New Coatings & Foam Literature

Graco has published a new 24-page brochure for its fast-set plural-component equipment and accessories. The brochure includes information on Graco’s complete lineup of foam proportioners, spray guns, and transfer pumps, as well as parts and ordering information. Ask your distributor for brochure 300615E or download a pdf now.

Graco has also updated its High-Performance Coatings and Foam line card. It includes an overview and technical specifications for the proportioner, spray gun and transfer pump lines. Ask for 337488D or download a pdf now.

No Hose Heat? Try the “Divide & Conquer” Approach

by Barry Taft, Graco Tech Support

If you have been in the spray foam business very long, you are no stranger to the problem of hose heat failures. It is without question the most likely failure of the equipment used in applying polyurethane foam.

When you try to troubleshoot lack of hose heat, try the “divide and conquer” method of troubleshooting – a systematic approach to determine where the problem lies. Only trained and qualified operators who have read the manuals should perform repairs on the equipment.

All hose heat systems (regardless of the equipment manufacturer) require the following components to operate:

1. Path of electricity – In order for heat to be generated, we need voltage applied to an electrical resistance conductor. In our business, this is the heated hose. Think about it. If you had to identify the one component that by its very nature is used and abused, then you would agree it is the hose. It is constantly dragged, bent, stepped on, run over, pulled into attics and crawl spaces. You get the idea. The first check that should be performed is hose continuity. With the power off to the machine, we need to check for hose continuity by removing the hose from the machine and measuring the resistance out, through the whip hose and back. The measurement should be less than two ohms. If your problem is high hose current, then the second test is to check for a hose section short “cross connection” by confirming that there is no continuity when we disconnect the whip hose from the gun end.

2. After confirming the hose continuity is OK, then we need to check the hose heat transformer circuit protection devices. Most machines have a circuit breaker or fuse protecting the hose heat transformer “primary” high voltage side, and the “secondary” stepped down low voltage side.

3. Voltage present – After verifying we have a path for the electricity to work, then we need to confirm that we have 15 vac to 100 vac at the transformer “secondary” voltage side. The voltage expected will be based on the length of hose you have on your machine. The rule of thumb is 15 vac for each 50-foot section of hose we have connected. If we have voltage on the secondary, then we know the hose heat transformer, the voltage control, usually a Solid State Relay (SSR) Phase controller, or heat control board or module are working. If not, then we need to work our way back - in other words, “divide and conquer.”

4. Is the heat controller calling for heat? Most machines have a controller that sends a low voltage DC signal (5 – 32 vdc) to turn on the SSR or phase controller, to send the higher voltage AC to power the hose. They all have indicator lights O1 typically or LED’s on the control board that indicate a call for heat.

5. Finally we need to check the temperature feedback device - the fluid temperature sensor, temperature sensing unit, hose thermocouple, or a remote mounted thermometer out by the operator with a manual hose heat system. We use three types of thermocouple junctions: type “E” (10 ohms @70°F) on all Graco and Gusmer units; type “J” (33 ohms @ 70°F), or type “T” (5 ohms @ 70°F) on GlasCraft units. One way to easily check the hose sensor is to connect it directly to the machine, bypassing the hose sensor wire to see if we then read a temperature on our controller display.

I would like to introduce all our customers, distributors and end-users alike, to our online technical support pages. The Product Knowledge Exchange will provide you with many answers to frequently asked questions. Or you can “Ask a Question” which will be answered by one of our product experts by the next business day. This is a great location to find information on all our products, whether in North America or anywhere in the world. Please take time to visit us at www.graco.com.

Biomax Spray Foam featured in SprayFoam Magazine

Biomax Spray Foam, Tyler, TX, will be featured in an upcoming article in SprayFoam Magazine’s online website. Matt Taylor of BioMax, has four Graco Fusion® CS guns and is seeing great results in improved parts life on chambers and side seals, better yield from the chemical, and 25-30% less waste by being able to better control the amount of 1/2 lb foam being applied. Read more about Biomax’s custom home project at www.sprayfoam-mag.com.

Energy Bandits use Graco Fusion® CS Gun for foam and coatings jobs

Whether it’s foam insulation, roofing, or coatings projects such as water tanks, water containment and swimming pools, Alvin Harbour, owner of Energy Bandits Spray Foam Insulation Inc. says his crew now uses the Fusion CS Gun for all of their projects.

“Overall, we’re very happy with it,” he says. “The Fusion CS gun has helped productivity substantially. If you don’t have to worry about drilling the tip every 15 minutes, it really helps us get the job done faster.”

He started using the Fusion CS gun when it was introduced with a free 90-day trial through his distributor. At the time, he was doing a lot of 2-pound work and had great luck with the Fusion CS, but when he switched over to 1/2 pound foam, it got gummed up.

“After some experimentation, I found out that basically that the gun was over-greased,” Harbour said. “Less grease and lower air pressure helped solve the problem. I like the CS gun a lot,” he says, “and I make sure to flush it every day so that it stays clean.”

Harbour says the Fusion CS helps generate a better yield from materials because “it’s spraying better and the foam lays down with a nice even texture. We don’t have to worry about trimming off the excess foam, which means less labor expenses. There’s no re-shooting the foam either.”

Harbour also likes the ergonomic and lightweight attributes of the Fusion CS gun. “When you’re spraying attics with tight spaces, you’re crawling all the time. You need to be able to maneuver the gun and shoot at angles where the joist meets the rafters. If you can’t get the gun at the correct angle, you don’t get decent coverage.”

With his business based in Amarillo Texas, consumers are interested in foam for reasons beyond the insulation factor. “With the straight line winds that we get here, and no trees, the foam adds structural integrity to the building,” Harbour said. “Also with the dust storms, improved air quality is a big selling point.”

Free ClearShot Fluid promotion

Buy a Fusion® CS Gun and get a free 25-pack of ClearShot Liquid valued at $300. Visit the promotion page for details. Download your coupon, then visit your local Graco distributor to learn more. Offer is valid when you purchase a Fusion CS Gun between June 22, 2009 and Sept. 30, 2009. Coupon plus a copy of your invoice must be postmarked by Oct. 15, 2009.

Graco Fusion® CS Gun reference guide available in Spanish

A Fusion CS reference guide has been developed and is now available in a pdf format in Spanish. The guide provides guidelines on how to best use and maintain Fusion CS guns. Download the Spanish pdf entitled, " Obteniendo los Mejores Resultados con su Pistola de Rociado Fusion CS."

Graco launches Reactor® H-VR Proportioner

The Graco Reactor H-VR is a simple-to-operate variable ratio dispensing system that handles polyurethane foams and polyurea coatings.

Designed for unique applications, the Reactor H-VR allows you to spray infinitely variable volumetric ratios ranging between 1:1 and 2.5:1. Maximum fluid output will vary depending on ratio setting, ranging from 15 lbs/min (1.5 gal/min) at 1:1 ratio, to 10.0 lbs/min (1.0 gal/min) at 2.5:1 ratio. The Reactor H-VR dispenses polyurethane foams and polyurea coatings.

The Reactor H-VR is available as a complete proportioner that includes variable ratio frame and steel pallet. Gun and hose are sold separately.

NEW PART NUMBERS

You asked and we listened! The following parts and kits are now available, based on customer demand.

Fusion CS Gun
257422 Check valve kit, ISO
257423 Check valve kit, Resin
256977 Studwall retainer kit/TP100
256978 Studwall housing kit/TP100

The following Fusion CS parts have been re-activated:
256464 Side seal kit
256465 Polycarballoy seal kit, 2-pack

Fusion AP Gun
24C358 Fusion AP TP-100 tip kit

Cross-reference for GlasCraft part numbers
The following GlasCraft parts have been re-activated. Here is a cross-reference table for Graco and GlasCraft part numbers for P2 Gun Airless Spray Nozzles.

Graco – GlasCraft – Description
GC2573 – LPA2-147-1525 – TC Spray Tip, 1525
GC2574 – LPA2-147-1540 – TC Spray Tip, 1540
GC2575 – LPA2-147-1825 – TC Spray Tip, 1825
GC2576 – LPA2-147-1840 – TC Spray Tip, 1840
GC2577 – LPA2-147-1850 – TC Spray Tip, 1850
GC2578 – LPA2-147-2125 – TC Spray Tip, 2125
GC2579 – LPA2-147-2140 – TC Spray Tip, 2140
GC2580 – LPA2-147-2150 – TC Spray Tip, 2150
GC2581 – LPA2-147-2165 – TC Spray Tip, 2165
GC2582 – LPA2-147-2325 – TC Spray Tip, 2325
GC2583 – LPA2-147-2340 – TC Spray Tip, 2340
GC2584 – LPA2-147-2350 – TC Spray Tip, 2350
GC2585 – LPA2-147-2365 – TC Spray Tip, 2365
GC2586 – LPA2-147-2640 – TC Spray Tip, 2640
GC2587 – LPA2-147-2650 – TC Spray Tip, 2650
GC2588 – LPA2-147-2665 – TC Spray Tip, 2665
GC2589 – LPA2-147-3125 – TC Spray Tip, 3125
GC2590 – LPA2-147-3140 – TC Spray Tip, 3140
GC2591 – LPA2-147-3150 – TC Spray Tip, 3150
GC2592 – LPA2-147-3625 – TC Spray Tip, 3625
GC2593 – LPA2-147-3640 – TC Spray Tip, 3640
GC2594 – LPA2-147-3650 – TC Spray Tip, 3650
GC2595 – LPA2-147-3840 – TC Spray Tip, 3840
GC2596 – LPA2-147-3850 – TC Spray Tip, 3850
GC2597 – LPA2-147-4350 – TC Spray Tip, 4350
GC2598 – LPA2-147-4365 – TC Spray Tip, 4365
GC2599 – LPA2-147-5225 – TC Spray Tip, 5225
GC2600 – LPA2-147-5240 – TC Spray Tip, 5240
GC2601 – LPA2-147-5250 – TC Spray Tip, 5250
GC2602 – LPA2-147-5265 – TC Spray Tip, 5265
GC2603 – LPA2-147-6225 – TC Spray Tip, 6225
GC2604 – LPA2-147-6240 – TC Spray Tip, 6240
GC2605 – LPA2-147-6250 – TC Spray Tip, 6250
GC2606 – LPA2-147-6265 – TC Spray Tip, 6265
GC2607 – LPA2-147-7240 – TC Spray Tip, 7240
GC2608 – LPA2-147-7250 – TC Spray Tip, 7250
GC2609 – LPA2-147-7840 – TC Spray Tip, 7840

P2 Chopper Kits
257988 – 23942-01 – P2 Elite chopper attachment kit, B-410
257989 – 23942-02 – P2 Elite chopper attachment kit, B-510

GlasCraft Check Ball Kit
GC2610 – 20315-00 – Check ball valve kit, chrome plated

SPECIAL OFFERS

Closeout sale on Foam Cat® (Therma-Trol) Hose
Graco distributors are offering special closeout discounts on remaining inventories of Foam Cat (Therma-Trol) hose. Supplies are limited. Please contact your local Graco distributor for details.

T1 and T2 Transfer Pump Specials
Graco distributors are offering special discounts on T1 and T2 transfer pumps. Please contact your local Graco distributor for details.

Fusion CS Gun Update

Designed with an innovative liquid purge design, the new Fusion CS Gun is different than traditional air-purge or mechanical purge guns. "End-users are realizing that the new gun is radically different than anything they've every used before," says Graco's Nick Pagano, "and they're learning to modify their spraying and maintenance techniques in order to get the best results from their Fusion CS gun," he says.

A new reference guide called "Getting the Best Results from your Fusion CS Spray Gun" has been developed and will be included with all Fusion CS guns. The guide gives detailed recommendation on how to best use and maintain Fusion CS guns, and includes details on how to resolve most common issues. A Spanish version of the guide is also available in pdf format.

Graco has also provided information, helpful hints and FAQ's online at the Product Knowledge Exchange (PKE). To use Graco's PKE, visit www.graco.com, choose Tech Support, and search by keywords "Fusion CS."

Try Before You Buy
With the Try Before You Buy program, contractors can try the Graco Fusion CS gun free with a risk-free, 60-day trial. If it doesn't live up to expectations, Graco will take it back, no questions asked. Distributors receive 90-day dating and an extra five percent discount. Promotional period: March 1 to May 31, 2009.

New Fusion CS Parts and Accessories
In addition, Graco is pleased to announce that several new repair kits are now available based on customer requests. These parts were previously only available as part of larger assembled kits.

257424 Dosing piston with O-rings
257426 Variable flow O-ring Kit, pack of 6
257428 Check valve housing (resin), pack of 10
257427 Check valve housing (ISO), pack of 10
257420 Check ball, pack of 10
257419 Check valve spring, pack of 10
257421 Check valve retainer, pack of 10
256923 Side seal springs, pack of 10

Graco adds Reactor H-50 Foam Proportioner to line-up

Gets the job done faster on high-volume applications
Graco recently introduced a new high-output proportioner for applying spray polyurethane foam. Designed especially for high-volume applications such as large commercial projects or roofing applications, the new hydraulic Graco Reactor H-50 Foam Proportioner delivers up to 50 pounds (22.6 kg) of foam per minute – allowing contractors to spray more product in less time.

“Larger pumps on the machine drive higher flow rates,” says Nick Pagano, product marketing manager for foam and polyurea equipment at Graco. “The new Graco H-50 will have 140 size pumps installed for high-output users who need to work faster and accomplish more in a day.”

The Graco H-50 foam proportioner is available separately or as a package. The package units include a Fusion® gun, spray hose and whip hose. Download the H-50 flyer.

Manual Updates
Please note the changes to the Reactor H-50 manual:

• A table of specifications has been added to page 3
• Pages 20 and 21 now have electrical requirements

For more information, visit www.graco.com.

Congress approves insulation tax credit

The 2009 economic stimulus bill includes an extension and expansion of the existing federal tax credit for installed insulation. The federal tax credit for installing insulation in 2009 is 30 percent (previously 10 percent) of the purchase price up to a $1500 tax credit for 2009. So a consumer can save as much as $1500 from the purchase price when adding insulation to their existing home. For more information, visit ICAA's website at www.insulate.org or the U.S. Department of Energy at www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm.

Distributor Training Schedule

For distributors of Graco Foam & Polyurea Equipment

The extensive four-day Reactor training includes:

• Component lab: teardown and reassembly of all major components
• Electrical lab: controls, operation and troubleshooting
• Spray lab: install, setup and spray
• Choosing the right equipment, feed systems, material conditioning, set up, operation, basic maintenance, troubleshooting for sales and technical personnel

Upcoming training dates:

• 05-11-2009 - 05-14-2009 Graco Technical Center, Minneapolis, MN
• 06-08-2009 - 06-11-2009 Graco Technical Center, Minneapolis, MN
• 08-03-2009 - 08-06-2009 Graco Technical Center, Minneapolis, MN
• 08-31-2009 - 09-03-2009 Graco Technical Center, Minneapolis, MN
• 11-09-2009 - 11-12-2009 Graco Technical Center, Minneapolis, MN
• 12-07-2009 - 12-10-2009 Graco Technical Center, Minneapolis, MN

To register, complete the Distributor registration form found on GEDI, and email to kolesen@graco.com or fax to 612-623-6580.

Product Literature

"Getting the Best Results from your Fusion CS Spray Gun" Download the English version or the Spanish version.

The Graco Coatings and Foam Equipment line card has been updated to included Guardian A-5 and A-6 proportioners, plus P2 and Probler guns. Distributors may order part number 337488D from GEDI.

Graco Reactor H-50 flyer is available in digital format only. Download the H-50 flyer.

Manual Updates

Download the latest version of the Reactor H-50 manual:

• Operation Manual 312062H

Upcoming Shows and Events

If you're going to any of the following shows, be sure to visit the Graco booth!

• Windpower 2009 - Chicago, IL; May 4-7 Booth 5321