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What is a Softwash Proportioner and How is it Used?

proportioner settings

Softwash Proportioners Explained

A softwash proportioner combines water, chlorine, and surfactant(soap), and dispenses that mixture into the softwash pump. The mixture is proportioned using metering valves on each of the input lines to adjust the flow to desired ratios. Chlorine is very corrosive so our proportioning systems are built with the highest-grade materials for this specific application. Our softwash proportioner consists of:

(1) Manifold Block: Chlorine and UV-resistant UHMWPE plastic, consisting of 3 input ports, output and bypass ports.

(3) Check Valves: Constructed from polypropylene, Viton, and stainless steel. Check valves to prevent backflow contamination in your system.

(3) Metering Valves: Made from CPVC chlorine-resistant plastic, with Viton seals. Metering valves proportion the mixture.

proportioner settings

3-part softwash proportioner

Ensuring Consistency With A Softwash Proportioner

Using a softwash proportioner ensures consistent mixing of cleaning solutions. The precision provided by the metering valves allows for accurate control over the flow rates of water, chlorine, and surfactant, resulting in a perfect mix every time. This consistency is crucial for effective cleaning and protecting surfaces from damage.

Pro Tip: When you find the perfect mix for a job, take a picture of the valve settings. This will save time and ensure consistency for future jobs.

softwash proportioner

How To Use A Softwash Proportioner

Using a softwash proportioner involves a few straightforward steps:

  1. SETUP: Plumb the proportioner to your water, chlorine, and surfactant tank if you have one. Connect the output port of the proportioner with the input port of the softwashing system; finally – if you have a bypass port on your softwashing system connect it to the bypass port on the manifold block.
  2. PROPORTION: Set the metering valves to the desired flow rate using the precision dial, ensuring the correct proportions for your cleaning task.
  3. CLEAN: Turn on the water supply. The proportioner will mix the solutions accurately and consistently, and the mixed solution will be carried to the softwash pump through the output port.
  4. MONITOR & ADJUST: Keep an eye on the output to ensure the mixture remains consistent. Adjust the metering valves as necessary based on the cleaning requirements.

After Job Maintenance:

  • Close the chlorine and surfactant lines after every job to flush out the entire system with clean water. Chlorine is very corrosive, and failing to flush your system can lead to costly repairs.
  • Once flushed, reset proportioner to your mixture settings.

Role Of Check Valves And Ports

Check valves in the proportioner system play a critical role by preventing contamination of the solution mix. They ensure that the solution flows in one direction, so you don’t end up with chlorine and soap in your water tank :/

  • Output Port: This port carries the proportioned mix directly to the softwash pump, ensuring a steady supply of the correctly mixed solution for cleaning.
  • Bypass Port: Used to relieve pressure in the system when the engine is running but the system is not spraying. This prevents pressure buildup and potential damage to the system, enhancing its longevity and reliability.

Benefits Of Our Softwash Proportioners

Investing in our softwash proportioners offers numerous advantages:

  • CONSISTENCY: Cannot stress this enough, if you are a business owner and want to ensure you dummy proof your softwashing services, you need a proportioner. It is easy to understand and easy to teach and it will be the best money you ever spend.
  • EFFICIENCY: Accurate mixture of solutions saves time and money.
  • DURABILITY: Built with high-quality, chemically resistant materials for long-lasting performance.

Conclusion

A softwash proportioner is indispensable for any softwashing business, providing consistent, efficient, and safe mixing of cleaning solutions. Our high-quality proportioners ensure that you deliver the best results for your clients. Give us a call or visit our store to learn more. We are happy to answer your questions