Clean It Up

UK General Cleaning Forum => General Cleaning Forum => Topic started by: Smurf on September 13, 2016, 11:35:46 am

Title: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 13, 2016, 11:35:46 am
Just wondering who has put together or bought a benz van mount/trailer "ultimate" softwash system?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0IvTa4kKgo



Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on September 13, 2016, 09:18:08 pm
Just wondering who has put together or bought a benz van mount/trailer "ultimate" softwash system?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0IvTa4kKgo
I built that system 5 years ago. The comet pump is old hat.
The Dosatron in the video is for mixing bleach at 4:1 not bio-cide at 30:1.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on September 13, 2016, 09:29:04 pm
Mark 1 and 2
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 13, 2016, 09:56:45 pm
Who is that video aimed at?  Complete novices who have zero knowledge of pumps?

I could build one of them with crap I have hanging  around my unit
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on September 13, 2016, 10:04:13 pm
Very few pumps will handle bleach...hence  I chose the Comet. The grey body ones are Viton sealed.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 13, 2016, 10:12:29 pm
Why allow the chemical to go through the pump, I think hydraforces injection sprayers as used by carpet cleaners could be easily adapted for softwashing.

I use one that's 10yrs old and still working perfect, I'll try and find a link to them, they work at 80-500psi

Here yea go...

https://interlinksupply.com/?item_num=AS08
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on September 13, 2016, 10:19:41 pm
Nothing works at a 1:8 mix. some large buildings require 100Lof mix plus ..that would take forever at 5 qt at a time.
Even though I don't know what 5qt is....I do know it aint enough ;D
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 13, 2016, 10:26:28 pm
They come with various tips which alters the  dilution upto  36-1 but you can put a 4-1 mix in the concentrate container with puts out a final dilution of  32-1 with no tip, but if the 36-1 tip is fitted and the a 2-1 dilution put In the container then you get 72-1

You can create any dilution you require
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 13, 2016, 10:29:59 pm
They are a 1gl container so fill it once  with a 2-1 mix and you would create 72gl of RTU solution without the need to refill
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 13, 2016, 10:37:00 pm
Another post :D

This is the new version which has a built in dilution adjustment

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1473802608_image.jpg)
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 13, 2016, 11:06:35 pm
Interesting posts Mike.
So for people that don't have expensive carpet cleaning van mounts what sort of pump setup would you need to get that to work?
Also there is no mention of the max lpm flow rate of that chem injector so do you know what it is?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on September 14, 2016, 06:39:40 am
Another post :D

This is the new version which has a built in dilution adjustment

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1473802608_image.jpg)
Yep that should work...an x-jet will do the same thing if you have a pressure washer.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 14, 2016, 08:04:53 am
Interesting posts Mike.
So for people that don't have expensive carpet cleaning van mounts what sort of pump setup would you need to get that to work?
Also there is no mention of the max lpm flow rate of that chem injector so do you know what it is?
.

That's the only problem with these sprayers they do reduce the flow so are no good for high flow washing but for apply pre sprays or softwashing through a brush then they should work.

Carpet cleaners use these on pumps from 80psi up to pressure washer pumps of 1500PSI plus they can also handle high temps
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Plankton on September 18, 2016, 10:45:40 pm
Can you run biocide 20:1 through your standard pressure washer?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 18, 2016, 11:07:06 pm
Best ask Chris as I think he tried it with an xjet...Looks fun don't it ;D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFFrLESuN1U
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 18, 2016, 11:20:02 pm
Yehaa!  :D https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fwZKT7glEc
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Plankton on September 18, 2016, 11:54:03 pm
Best ask Chris as I think he tried it with an xjet...Looks fun don't it ;D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFFrLESuN1U
It's not going through the pump on this though
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Plankton on September 18, 2016, 11:58:23 pm
Yehaa!  :D https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fwZKT7glEc
Dudes going to spray the neighbours car with hypo! I'm sure he'd be pleased about that. (Assuming it is hypo)
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 19, 2016, 12:03:23 am
Both vids the chaps are using an m5 xjet that fits to the end of a lance.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 19, 2016, 12:09:16 am
Another cowboy at work using an xjet and hypo mix...Yehaa!  ;D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtLmlWrUnyo
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Plankton on September 19, 2016, 12:48:36 am
Another cowboy at work using an xjet and hypo mix...Yehaa!  ;D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtLmlWrUnyo
At least the PPE is better.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 19, 2016, 06:07:46 am
Can you run biocide 20:1 through your standard pressure washer?
I would think so
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Ben Marriott on September 20, 2016, 01:50:09 pm
Please do not run ANY chemical though your pumps, Biocide is thicker than water, TFR is thicker than water, increased viscosity will increase heat and the chemicals will attack the pump seals, valves and pistons.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 23, 2016, 10:58:53 pm
For a test I've just got myself an atv 55 litre spot sprayer from quad bike wales to throw in the van to try out with some small benz blackwash jobbies instead of trying to run it through a standard shurflo wfp pump. Not sure how long that 60 psi 8 lpm pump will last using a weak hypo based softwash mix though but was cheap as chips so I'm not realy that bothered.

The pump that came with the tank was the following spec.
Fimco 60 PSI 2.1 GPM Gold Series High-Flo Duplex Diaphragm Pump 12 Volt 5277981

Fimco offers the only FAN COOLED and FUSE PROTECTED pump in the industry

FEATURES:
• 12 Volts
• Max. flow: 2.1 GPM
• Max. pressure: 60 PSI
• 8 Amps
• Demand Switch Model – Operates only when liquid flow is required
• Pump and motor stop instantly when discharge is closed
• Diaphragm: Santoprene
• Check Valve: Viton
• Ports: Quick attach, with 3 polypropylene fittings supplied
• Fittings: 1/2” NPT, 3/8” Male Hose Barb, 1/2” Male Hose Barb
• Max. fluid temperature: 110°F
• Pump can run indefinitely without damage
• Ball bearing drive – assures longer pump life
• Excellent self-priming capability
• Permanent magnetic motor – long life brushes
• Fuse protected
• Built-In cooling fan
• Diaphragm design eliminates troublesome shaft seal
• Fimco Pump Model: 5277981
• “Roundup™ Ready”
• Weight: 3.0 lbs

Yehaa! Job done  ;D

Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 25, 2016, 01:43:46 pm
Just a quick update chaps I've now added a digi flow controller to that new atv spot sprayer 12v pump. That way I now have complete control of the speed of the pump/flow rate and dead end detection instead of running it flat out all the time.. I also did not like the idea of running off the pressure switch that was set to cut the pump out at 60 psi. In my opinioun 60 psi is way too high as puts undue strain on the pump, hoses and couplings especially when using chems.

Having a flow controller fitted to a pump I think is a must as can help reduce runoff, chem wastage and spray drift. Being able to reduce the flow is especially helpful when using brush method. Not only that will help with the life of the pump.

Do any of you chaps use a dedicated chemical 12 v pump for softwashing?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Mike Halliday on September 25, 2016, 03:25:00 pm
Shurflo and flojet 12v pumps are used extensively by carpet cleaners in thier electric pre-spray machines, most run in the 60-100psi range. They either have a flow switch to turn them of when you release the trigger or a bypass mode  so the motor keeps running but no pressure is produced, these are thought to be better as the motor is not constantly cycling on & off so stop wear and tear.

I would think the pump you mention is of the same design, carpet cleaners use mixes of 6-1 upto 100-1  so these pumps can handle quite concentrated solutions. They all  prespray from Ph2-14 so also can handle both acid and strong alkalis.

If it is of the same design then using it for softwashing will not be a problem
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: nathankaye on September 26, 2016, 01:12:57 am
Just a quick update chaps I've now added a digi flow controller to that new atv spot sprayer 12v pump. That way I now have complete control of the speed of the pump/flow rate and dead end detection instead of running it flat out all the time.. I also did not like the idea of running off the pressure switch that was set to cut the pump out at 60 psi. In my opinioun 60 psi is way too high as puts undue strain on the pump, hoses and couplings especially when using chems.

Having a flow controller fitted to a pump I think is a must as can help reduce runoff, chem wastage and spray drift. Being able to reduce the flow is especially helpful when using brush method. Not only that will help with the life of the pump.

Do any of you chaps use a dedicated chemical 12 v pump for softwashing?

Just googled an  atv spot sprayer in images, looks quite a good idea for softwashing esp holding more liquid than a 25ltr backpack.
If u dont mind me asking where did you purchase it from? Do you have a link to their web site if they have one?
Cheers smurf
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on September 26, 2016, 09:36:23 pm
Have a look on fleebay for quad bike wales atv spot sprayers.
Like I said before I just throw it in the van as the tank is tiny. It's way too small really for my needs but will do for now as I wanted the option either static or mobile. However I do find it a pain in the arse to keep stopping to refill that small 55 litre tank though.

I will probably bin that 55 litre tank at some point and permanently mount the pump and controller in the van connected to a say 250 tank. After saying that ideally I would like two extra van tanks. One for blackwash and the other for Benz biocide and might eventually get a petrol driven pump for each tank.

This is the one that I ordered http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/55-Litre-Quad-ATV-Spot-Sprayer-System-60psi-SHURFLO-/141393008062?hash=item20ebae15be:m:m-1urVaza-FNNziItFGnXJg

However the pump was not as described as was not a shurflo pump that I wanted. Also the tank was white so if you are thinking of getting one best phone first as you may get stiched up ike I did. Anyway I was not bothered about the colour of the tank nor the pump that came with it as could not be arsed to send the pump back as works ok for my needs.  Not to mention the pump is fitted to the back not the top of the tank as pic which is no big deal either.

Anyway cost wise it was about 30 squid more than a gardiner v3 backpack not including a lesuire battery nor a digi controller that I already had spare so was a no brainer all the same.

Hope this helps?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 19, 2016, 10:46:44 am
Regards to an ultimate softwash system if anyone is thinking of building one here is a new and very simple idea how to do away with a batch blend tank altogether, change % ratio on the fly and does away with having to manually batch blend altogether.  http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=204865.0
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: ascjim on October 19, 2016, 05:38:57 pm
Mark 1 and 2

They look great!
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: ascjim on October 19, 2016, 05:43:56 pm
Next year we are setting up a van dedicated to pressure washing and soft washing.

I was thinking of having a separate chemical tank on board, but I like the look of the pumps that mix the chemical for you.

Where can I get these from? Anyone have one?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 19, 2016, 08:34:39 pm
I've only seen them so far on tinternet ready made for sale which are the pro-portioner or ac locker’s blend module sold in the USA . Therefore I'm sure it will not be long before the likes of Ben from Rutland pumps will be selling his own version knowing Ben as he don't seem to miss a trick.




Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 19, 2016, 09:11:47 pm
Ultimate softwash pump.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 19, 2016, 09:14:02 pm
For sale softwash pumps
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 19, 2016, 09:34:02 pm
Ultimate softwash pump.

Chris so what is different to that pump than any other?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 19, 2016, 10:01:29 pm
Everything proof @ 30lpm
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 19, 2016, 11:33:11 pm
Nothing is everything proof Chris  ;D
30lpm seems OTT to me…What are you going to use it for    ???
Also how come you also went for what look like metal camlock banjo fittings?

Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 20, 2016, 07:12:16 am
Camlocks are s/s  quik release.They seem the most reliable over time...no leaks .
We have a number of attachments ie one for dosatron, one for hoselock, one for tank . Chemical pick up pipe....Camlocks provide a quick and easy way to swap the feed over...making the machine more versatile.
The higher flow pump means we can use a larger  nozzle nozzles ,so bigger droplet ...less drift. We can now run 4 waterfed pole from it for render / cladding cleaning.
The unloader combined with this type of pump means it is soooooooo much easier to  adjust flow ,spray pattern etc  down to around 1 0r 2 litres per min and up to around 30lpm .
The pumps are self priming . It also "unloads " back into the pump....which means less trailing pipe work ,also eliminates the need for a tank to return chemical to.Can be used with metering valve set up to custom mix on site....if you really want to go Yank.
Stainless steel frame so no "real" issues with corrosion.
Pump body is of an high performance "alloy"...less corrosion /wear.
Rollers: Super Rollers standard [Poly (T3) and Teflon® (T2)]
 Shaft Seals: Viton standard
Less moving parts in the pump and very easy to repair on site.
Small footprint frame ...easy to carry. more than Van pack performance without the need for a dedicated  van.
We have used the comet pumps for years with no real issues...we though we would just take it a step further.
These pumps are pretty much everything resistant...acids, tfr, weedkiler ,biocide etc.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 20, 2016, 09:38:41 am
Camlocks are s/s  quik release.They seem the most reliable over time...no leaks .
We have a number of attachments ie one for dosatron, one for hoselock, one for tank . Chemical pick up pipe....Camlocks provide a quick and easy way to swap the feed over...making the machine more versatile.
The higher flow pump means we can use a larger  nozzle nozzles ,so bigger droplet ...less drift. We can now run 4 waterfed pole from it for render / cladding cleaning.
The unloader combined with this type of pump means it is soooooooo much easier to  adjust flow ,spray pattern etc  down to around 1 0r 2 litres per min and up to around 30lpm .
The pumps are self priming . It also "unloads " back into the pump....which means less trailing pipe work ,also eliminates the need for a tank to return chemical to.Can be used with metering valve set up to custom mix on site....if you really want to go Yank.
Stainless steel frame so no "real" issues with corrosion.
Pump body is of an high performance "alloy"...less corrosion /wear.
Rollers: Super Rollers standard [Poly (T3) and Teflon® (T2)]
 Shaft Seals: Viton standard
Less moving parts in the pump and very easy to repair on site.
Small footprint frame ...easy to carry. more than Van pack performance without the need for a dedicated  van.
We have used the comet pumps for years with no real issues...we though we would just take it a step further.
These pumps are pretty much everything resistant...acids, tfr, weedkiler ,biocide etc.

Chris many thanks for the in depth reply.
Can I ask what pump is that exactly?
What size motor is that loncin?
Did you source all the parts needed and build it yourself?



 
 
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: ascjim on October 20, 2016, 09:59:28 am
I like the sound of this. Do I like the cost?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 20, 2016, 07:03:54 pm
I like the sound of this. Do I like the cost?

Probably not as Chris has gone very quite.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 20, 2016, 08:58:42 pm
Camlocks are s/s  quik release.They seem the most reliable over time...no leaks .
We have a number of attachments ie one for dosatron, one for hoselock, one for tank . Chemical pick up pipe....Camlocks provide a quick and easy way to swap the feed over...making the machine more versatile.
The higher flow pump means we can use a larger  nozzle nozzles ,so bigger droplet ...less drift. We can now run 4 waterfed pole from it for render / cladding cleaning.
The unloader combined with this type of pump means it is soooooooo much easier to  adjust flow ,spray pattern etc  down to around 1 0r 2 litres per min and up to around 30lpm .
The pumps are self priming . It also "unloads " back into the pump....which means less trailing pipe work ,also eliminates the need for a tank to return chemical to.Can be used with metering valve set up to custom mix on site....if you really want to go Yank.
Stainless steel frame so no "real" issues with corrosion.
Pump body is of an high performance "alloy"...less corrosion /wear.
Rollers: Super Rollers standard [Poly (T3) and Teflon® (T2)]
 Shaft Seals: Viton standard
Less moving parts in the pump and very easy to repair on site.
Small footprint frame ...easy to carry. more than Van pack performance without the need for a dedicated  van.
We have used the comet pumps for years with no real issues...we though we would just take it a step further.
These pumps are pretty much everything resistant...acids, tfr, weedkiler ,biocide etc.

Chris many thanks for the in depth reply.
Can I ask what pump is that exactly?
What size motor is that loncin?
Did you source all the parts needed and build it yourself?



 
It's a roller pump.
Loncin is a 5.5hp although 1hp is enough.
Sophie built it for me.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 20, 2016, 10:19:13 pm
Nice one  ;)

I would imagine that roller pump could also double up and make a great washdown pump too going by this vid...
Who needs a pressure washer to washdown stuff at low pressure anymore  ;D ;D https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCr-XRFzgGA
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 22, 2016, 12:20:36 pm
Chris can I ask how much you paid for your new pump set up?
I take it Sophie  works with Ben from rutland pumps?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 22, 2016, 12:25:42 pm
Chris can I ask how much you paid for your new pump set up?
I take it Sophie  works with Ben from rutland pumps?
Don't know ...I only gave them the spec. You need to speak to Sophie ..the custom pump builder.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 22, 2016, 12:33:25 pm
Chris is it ok if I send you an email as I guess you don't want to give too much away on here.  ;D
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 22, 2016, 12:36:49 pm
I honestly don't know...they have not sent me the bill !
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 22, 2016, 12:38:50 pm
Maybe £700 or 800 ...but thats a guess. It's top spec... even down to the stainless frame compared to a painted one.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 22, 2016, 12:45:08 pm
I'm guessing it's a field test trial freebie then...Say no more  ;D  ;D
To be honnest I've never seen a hypro pump with an unloader combined like that so must be a first surely?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on October 22, 2016, 01:17:09 pm
It's no freebie....I ordered exactly what I wanted. So you will not have seen one.
 I just have not received the final invoice. ...so I really cannot tell you how much it was.
Ask Sophie the price....the price might increase depending on how many of her nails she snapped whilst putting it together.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on October 22, 2016, 02:05:50 pm
It's no freebie....I ordered exactly what I wanted. So you will not have seen one.
 I just have not received the final invoice. ...so I really cannot tell you how much it was.
Ask Sophie the price....the price might increase depending on how many of her nails she snapped whilst putting it together.

I bet Sophie broke one or two and cussed you like a trooper too.  ;D
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on November 03, 2016, 08:13:21 am
I like the sound of this. Do I like the cost?

Probably not as Chris has gone very quite.
Not much change from £1000 ....nice machine tho'. I suppose quality comes at a price.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: ascjim on November 03, 2016, 05:40:48 pm
Actually, I'm looking for a pump that will also mix the chemical. Where can I get something like this?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on November 03, 2016, 06:14:50 pm
In the for sale section on here ...I have several for sale.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: ascjim on November 03, 2016, 06:46:21 pm
I can see the one with the tank, do you have any others?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on November 03, 2016, 07:25:48 pm
yep
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on November 03, 2016, 07:50:49 pm
James...what exactly are you wanting to do with the machine? I have loads of stuff for sale.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: ascjim on November 04, 2016, 09:39:20 am
I want a motor that can suck water and mix chemicals for us. Then plug that into a wfp pole. Have you anything?
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: Smurf on November 04, 2016, 12:18:29 pm
My understanding Chris still does mixing by hand like most of us.

I know going by some pics/vids Chris has posted using an algoclear pro box in the past to apply the correct dose of algoclear pro. This will mix it for you but the downside it needs an outside tap and good pressure for the dosatron inside the box to work properly. http://www.algoclear.com/site/equipment.html

Interesting to see on that link above that algopro  now sell a petrol driven pump  with the internal pump bypass simular to the one that Chris has just had built. However the pump etc on his is of a much higher spec for chemical use. But still it don't mix chems for you as you would need something like a proportioner (metering ball valve) type setup to do that for you if wanting to use a 12v or petrol driven chemical pump.

Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on November 04, 2016, 04:36:43 pm
I want a motor that can suck water and mix chemicals for us. Then plug that into a wfp pole. Have you anything?
What chemicals do you wish to mix ? Why do you want to do that?
That pump will feed 3 waterfed poles. or a lance .
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on November 04, 2016, 04:41:52 pm
If you wish to clean cladding/render/connie roofs ...you want the pump.
If you are using Quats you want a Dosatron and pump.

If you tell me what you are trying to do I can best advise...if you lads cannot make a softwash mix up manually ,the best course of action would be to change the lads.
As if they don't have the sense to mix it ...they should definitely not be applying it.

Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: ascjim on November 04, 2016, 06:16:31 pm
It's better not to handle hypo at all really.

Also if there is no tank there's more room.
Title: Re: Ultimate softwash system
Post by: chris scott on November 04, 2016, 07:33:47 pm
You confuse me.
The blue framed pump has no tank.
You don't want to handle the bleach ...but you will spray it all over a customers house?