Before first use, inspect the gun for transit damage, check that the gauge reads zero and moves freely, and prove every hose, coupler and adapter against its rating. Then run a trial stroke on a safe target, watching the pressure response, and record what you did. These checks take little time and catch problems before they reach a live valve.
Knowledge ยท Injection equipment
Commissioning new injection equipment: first-use checks
Simple first-use checks confirm a new sealant gun is safe, clean and ready for service.
1. Inspect the gun before first use
A new gun can be damaged in transit even when the box looks sound. Check the delivery against the packing list first, then inspect the gun itself. Look for dents, cracks and deep scratches on the barrel, handle and reservoir. Check that threads are clean and undamaged, and that seals sit correctly in their grooves.
Look inside the reservoir and the filler opening. Manufacturing debris and old protective caps can contaminate sealant. Remove transit plugs and confirm the coupler face is clean and square. Where the maker supplies documents, read them for pressure limits and warranty terms. If anything looks wrong, stop and tell your supplier before use. Daily care after commissioning is covered in keeping sealant guns reliable.
2. Verify the gauge before you rely on it
The gauge is your main evidence during any injection. Treat it as part of the commissioning, not as an accessory. Check the lens for cracks and the needle for damage. The needle should rest at zero before the gun is pressurised.
Gently confirm the needle moves when pressure is applied, and returns to zero when released. A stuck or lazy needle suggests internal damage, so replace the gauge before work begins. A gauge reading only indicates condition; it never proves the state of a valve. Decisions about a passing valve need a proper seat-leak test under agreed conditions.
3. Prove hoses, couplers and adapters
Hoses and couplers carry the full working pressure of the gun, so check them with the same care. Look along each hose for cuts, kinks, bulges and abrasion. Check the fittings at both ends for damaged threads and deformed sealing faces. Reject anything doubtful rather than testing it on a live valve.
Match couplers and adapters to the buttonhead fittings on your valves before the first job. A mismatch found in the field wastes a permit and a visit. Check hose ratings against the maximum working pressure of the gun, not the pressure you expect to use. Keep spares of the sizes your site uses. See hoses, couplers and adapters for injection work for more detail.
4. Run a controlled trial stroke
A trial stroke proves the pump, gun and hose work together before a valve depends on them. Use a safe target such as an open discharge into a container, never a closed fitting. Follow the site permit rules for the test area.
- Bleed any air from the hose and confirm all connections are tight.
- Stroke the gun slowly and watch the gauge rise and fall smoothly.
- Listen for unusual noise and feel for rough movement or fluid bypass.
- Stop immediately if pressure climbs with no movement, or fluid leaks anywhere.
- Record the result and the date in the equipment file.
For air-operated guns, confirm the site air supply is clean, dry and adequate first. See compressed air for injection guns for what the site must provide.
5. Keep records from day one
A short record turns commissioning into evidence. For each gun, log the serial number, the date, the checks done, any faults found and the person who signed off. Keep the record in the equipment file and update it after any repair.
This helps in several ways. It supports warranty claims with the supplier. It gives repair teams a baseline for later faults. It also shows when each gun entered service, which shapes the service schedule. While you set up the file, note which service kit fits each gun. Our guide to what minor and major gun service kits cover explains the difference. If you are still comparing models, the injection equipment buying guide lists what to check before purchase.
6. What to do when a check fails
A fault found at commissioning is a fault stopped early. Tag the gun and remove it from service. Do not pressurise suspect equipment, and do not send it to a valve. Describe the fault to your supplier with photos and the serial number.
We support guns we supply through an equipment service and repair programme, and the equipment pages list the current models. Ask us for the product guide through an enquiry. An engineer will send it and answer questions within 24 hours. If damage is severe, a proper assessment may point to replacement rather than repair.
Common questions
New gun first-use checks questions, answered directly
How do I test a new sealant gun before first use?
Inspect the gun for transit damage, verify the gauge rests at zero and moves freely, and check hoses and couplers for damage. Then run a slow trial stroke into a safe open discharge, watching the pressure response. Stop if the gauge jumps or fluid escapes.
Why does the gauge on my new gun not read zero?
A needle that rests off zero, sticks or moves lazily suggests gauge damage from transit or storage. Do not rely on it, because pressure readings guide every injection. Replace the gauge, or ask the supplier to replace it, before the gun goes into service.
What should I record when commissioning injection equipment?
Log the serial number, the commissioning date, the checks performed, any faults found and the person who signed off. Add the gauge check result and the hose and coupler condition. This record supports warranty claims and gives repair teams a baseline.
Can I use a new sealant gun straight from the box?
Only after the first-use checks. Confirm there is no transit damage, the gauge works, the hoses and couplers are sound and a trial stroke runs smoothly. The checks take little time and protect both the operator and the valve.
Commissioning a new gun?
Send the equipment details. An engineer replies within 24 hours.
Include the gun model, serial number, date received and the fault you see.