HFC stands for hydrofluorocarbon, and is a mix of hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon atoms. There are some issues with HFCs, which have led to many companies transitioning to HFOs. When you compare HFO vs. HFC, and realize the benefits of HFOs, you’ll learn how to avoid the dangers of HFCs and keep your operations compliant.
At SprayWorks Equipment, we are proud to offer an HFO foam, an environmentally friendly alternative to the regular closed-cell spray foam. With over 100 years of experience, we are ready to provide you with cost-efficient and reliable solutions like these.
About HFO vs. HFC Materials
HFO vs. HFC blowing agents are a vital part of the makeup of spray foam. These chemical products help produce foam, and they also help slow down heat movement. Although they have similar functionalities and performances, there are quite a few differences between the two.
HFCs
HFCs are a group of chemicals typically used for cooling and refrigeration equipment, blowing agents, aerosol propellants, and solvents. They are super greenhouse gases that are short-lived with atmospheric lifetimes between 15 and 29 years. While they don’t cause damage locally, they do harm the ozone layer, as they are known to have an effect one hundred times worse than carbon dioxide.
HFCs trap heat in our atmosphere and contribute to global warming, hence why there is a desire to switch over to a more environmentally friendly option. Many states have therefore banned HFCs due to their negative effects.
HFOs
For the best option when it comes to HFO vs. HFC blowing agents, HFO is the clear winner. The name HFO stands for hydrofluoroolefin, and like HFCs, the chemical features the same hydrogen, fluoride and carbon atoms. However, HFOs have zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and a low global warming potential. They have a shorter atmospheric lifespan, which is ultimately what makes them more environmentally friendly. By utilizing HFOs, you’ll be taking part in creating a healthier environment. In addition to having zero ODP and low GWP, features of HFOs include:
- Low conductivity
- Non-flammable material
- No danger to the ozone layer
- Nontoxic composition
- Not considered as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
By choosing HFOs, you’ll reap benefits such as:
- Sustainability – As mentioned above, HFOs have a low GWP, and they provide energy efficiency, offering further environmental benefits.
- Safety – HFOs have a low flammability risk and a low toxicity. When handled properly, HFOs vs. HFCs do not pose risk to the environment or human health at any point of the lifecycle.
- Performance – HFOs perform better than typical refrigerants and industrial gases such as CO2.
While restrictions on HFCs are not in place in every state, more are likely to come, so transitioning from HFC to HFO blowing agents will save your business in the long run while contributing to a greener environment.
Choose SprayWorks Equipment for HFO Spray Foam
At SprayWorks Equipment, we are happy to offer both closed-cell and open-cell spray foam insulation to ensure you are able to tackle any of your insulation projects. We understand the needs of spraying foam and what it takes to implement these based on needs, structures, building envelopes, and other aspects, which has allowed us to work with various industries.
We know that there are quite a lot of states that are now requiring that closed-cell foam meet the HFO compliance standard, and SprayWorks Equipment understands the impact that HFC blowing agents are having on the industry and want to help implement change.
That’s why we are proud to offer the following HFO spray foams:
- UPC 2.0 HFO Foam – Consists of an “A” component (ISO) and a blended “B” component (RESIN) in separate drums. This spray foam is a two-component, one-to-one by volume, medium-density, spray-applied polyurethane foam system.
- GacoOnePass Low FWP F1880 – This liquid spray system can be used for a wide variety of applications such as piping, foundations, walls, attics, and more. It’s a two-component low GWP system that cures to a medium-density rigid cellular polyurethane insulation material. It contains polyols derived from naturally renewable oils, pre-consumer recycled materials, and post-consumer recycled plastics.
With well over 100 years of experience, we are dedicated to continuing to define the future of this industry. We work hard to fulfill the needs of our customers, offering the best equipment and parts. Along with superior customer service, we also are proud to offer:
- Equipment and parts – We are your go-to shop for insulation or coating materials, equipment, and supplies.
- Rigs – Whether it’s turn-key or custom mobile spray rigs, we can help you succeed on the job. We have a full line of rigs for the beginner or advanced applicator, all of which include the proper training for your team.
- Service and support – Our team is available to help at any time of the day. Our first line of support is to help troubleshoot and solve the problem on-site. If you are in need of equipment repairs, we can overnight parts or repair your equipment in our shop!
- Training – We take everything a step further than only teaching you about our equipment. Our simulated application training prepares you for a real job site, with hands-on material application experience. At the end, you’ll know how to maintain equipment, troubleshoot, set up, tear down, and more!
- Material – Typically, we have material available in our shop for pickup or we can ship material to your location. We carry options that include open-cell, closed-cell, roofing foam, polyurea, and more.
Our company approach is providing dependable, easily maintained equipment and supplies, at an affordable cost. All of our products are made in the USA and backed with a manufacturer’s warranty, guaranteed to exceed your expectations.
Ready to Transition to HFO Over HFC Blowing Agents? Contact Us Today
SprayWorks Equipment is ready to help you tackle any upcoming projects. With our team of highly experienced and certified professionals, we can ensure you find the ideal equipment for the job.
As you can see, when it comes to HFO vs. HFC, there are constant changes in this industry. That’s why it’s important that you choose a trusted company that understands this fact, such as SprayWorks Equipment. Contact us today to get started or ask any questions!
