Zenith® Pumps Ensure Precise Mix Ratio for Urethane Foam Applications
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Urethane foam is produced primarily for the automotive, building, and
furniture industries for use as padding, cushioning, and insulation.
Depending upon production, urethane foam can offer different
characteristics tailored to specific applications. It can be soft and
springy for a seat cushion or strong and durable for rigid foam insulation.
Industry Challenge
To obtain the proper characteristics, precise amounts of polyol and
isocyanate must be blended. This reaction creates an expanding cellular
structure. By adding catalysts, blowing agents, colorants, and other
additives, manufacturers can vary or enhance the physical properties of the
foam for their particular application.
The quality of the foam depends on the mix ratio between the polyol and
isocyanate. Pumps which pulsate or cannot accurately blend the fluids
result in poor quality and uneven product application.
Another concern is the viscosity of various polyols and isocyanates.
Some polyols tend to be viscous and may contain abrasive colorants. To thin
the fluid, the polyol is heated, or a nitrogen blanket is used to
pressurize the supply tank. Isocyanates are usually thinner than polyols
but have a tendency to crystallize when exposed to moisture. They require
the use of a special shaft seal in the pump to prevent this condition from
occurring.
The Zenith Solution
The pump of choice for producing urethane foam is typically a positive
displacement gear pump, which is capable of pumping high-viscosity fluids
at elevated temperatures and pressures. This high precision pump accurately
blends polyols and isocyanates to maintain a proper mix ratio. The smooth,
pulseless output of a Zenith pump makes application of the foam highly
consistent. These pumps use a special flushable double lip seal to prevent
the isocyanate from crystallizing in the shaft seal.
Zenith precision metering pumps are available in a wide variety of
models to handle most urethane applications requiring accurate mixing under
varying process conditions.
How You Benefit
Precision Blending - The precise, pulseless, and repeatable flow
of Zenith precision metering pumps assures highly consistent blending and
application of urethane foam products.
Complete Flexibility - To gain maximum flexibility in mix ratios,
a variety of independent pumps and drive systems are used. Zenith's
master-ratio control system provides accurate programmable control of two
or more variable speed DC drives.
Improved Quality - Manufacturers of urethane foams can vastly
improve product quality by using Zenith pumps, which ensure the right mix
between resins and catalysts.
B-9000 Series Gear Pumps |
