Weight Versus Volume When Mixing

Here’s how to convert the weight of a product into gallons and determine the volume.

By Sprayworks Equipment.

Spray foam material is packaged, sold and shipped on the basis of weight. Therefore, in order to figure the volume of a product packaged in the drum, converting the weight of the product within the drum into gallons is required. To do so, the specific gravity or weight per gallon of material is required information. There is likely to be a difference between manufacturers, so confirm with the product supplier to provide this info or if a scale is available, weigh the container first. Specific Gravity and per gallon weight of the liquid for some manufacturers are provided on the SDS or product data sheet (formerly MSDS).

When the weight of one gallon of product is known, divide the weight (in pounds) of one gallon of the product by 8.33 lbs. (the weight of one gallon of water). This will provide the specific gravity.

When the specific gravity is known, multiply the specific gravity by 8.33 (the weight of one gallon of water). This will provide the weight of one gallon of the product.

Utilize one of the two following equations to figure how much volume in gallons is in the container:

NET WEIGHT OF LIQUID / (SPECIFIC GRAVITY*8.33)=VOLUME (IN GALLONS)

Or

NET WEIGHT OF LIQUID / WEIGHT PER GALLON=VOLUME (IN GALLONS)

Many manufacturers have made the necessary calculations and have adjusted the drums accordingly while others have not. So, a little due diligence on our part will provide the necessary info to determine how the products are packaged and aid when confirming stroke counter limits.

Learn more about the spray foam and polyurea material offered by SprayWorks Equipment.

Editor’s note: This article first appeared on SprayWorks Equipment’s blog and can be found here.