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Hot Air Tools for Welding Self-Adhesive Membrane Laps

Etorch MAX with welding nozzle can also be used for welding side and head laps of self-adhesive membrane.

Bauder are pleased to announce, as part of our continued commitment to providing comprehensive technical solutions, that the Etorch MAX, together with the appropriate nozzle attachment, can be used for welding the side and head laps of our self-adhesive membranes without the need for a gas torch.

Why have Bauder been working with Imperial Thermal Engineering?

Bauder are seeing increasing numbers of Main Contractors pursuing sustainability initiatives to achieve their Net Zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 commitments. As part of this journey, many organisations are looking to replace fossil fuel-based processes with more sustainable alternatives.

To support this transition, Bauder has worked closely with Imperial Thermal Engineering in the development of the Etorch system for lap welding. Originally conceived for drying roofs and fusing laps in bituminous sheet membranes, the technology has been further developed and tested with Bauder's support.

Testing has proved successful in bonding the side and head laps across all three layers of a self-adhesive bitumen membrane system.

Etorch MAX - Drying Roofs and Membranes

Bauder testing has found that drying roof and membrane surfaces using the Etorch MAX is just as effective as using a traditional gas torch. In some situations, it has even outperformed gas torch methods.

Feedback from contractors has been very positive, particularly regarding its effectiveness as a roof drying tool. Imperial Thermal Engineering also provides information regarding potential cost benefits associated with moving to hot air installation methods.

Bitumen Self-Adhesive Membranes

Using the air blade directly in front of a self-adhesive membrane as it is rolled out can assist adhesion to the substrate during cooler temperatures, provided sufficient pressure is applied to prevent air entrapment.

The Etorch MAX is not intended as a replacement for Bauder Activator-Primer.

Bitumen Self-Adhesive Membranes - Lap Welding

The in-seam lap welding nozzle performs particularly well when used alongside Bauder's long-handled lap roller. Testing was carried out on AVCL, underlayer and capping sheet applications.

Observations showed neat, consistent bitumen bleed along welded laps. Feedback from the Bauder Germany laboratory regarding the fusion achieved between side laps and head laps of KSO-P SN and Sprint DUO membranes was extremely positive.

Which Self-Adhesive Membranes Can Be Lap Welded Using the Etorch MAX?

AVCL:

  • BauderTEC KSD FBS
  • BauderTHERM DS 1 DUO

Underlayer:

  • BauderTEC Sprint DUO
  • BauderTEC KSA DUO
  • BauderTEC KSA DUO 35

Capping Sheet:

  • BauderTEC KSO SN
  • BauderTEC KSO-P SN
  • BauderTEC KSO ALP SN

What About Bonding Torch-On Membranes?

Bauder does not currently endorse the use of the Etorch MAX for the installation of torch-on membrane systems.

What Will Happen with Regards to Using or Specifying the Etorch?

Bauder specifications already reference two options for hot air welding equipment. The Etorch will now be added as a third approved option.

Approved Hot Air Welding Equipment Suppliers:

Who Will Deal with Queries Relating to the Etorch?

Imperial Thermal Engineering should be contacted for all enquiries relating to the Etorch system and its accessories, including equipment supply, servicing and technical advice.

Technical Requirements

  • Power Supply: 415V, 3-phase, 32 Amp. Earth and neutral required (5-pin plug).
  • Air Blade: Deck/substrate drying and self-adhesive sheet activation.
  • Accessories: In-seam lap welding nozzle.
  • Detail Work: BAK ErOn or LEISTER handheld hot air blowers.
  • Expansion Capability: Three plug-in ports can accommodate hot air blowers and self-driving lap welding devices (220/240V).

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Richard Clennell
RBM & Insulation Product Manager
Email:  [email protected] 
Tel: 07824 539684