A high-pressure lance is a handheld wand connected to a pressure washer, used to apply water or chemical solution at pressures typically ranging from 80 to 200 bar. In touchless washing, the lance is the operator’s primary tool — it applies the active foam and performs the high-pressure rinse that removes loosened contamination.
Key parameters:
- Pressure — higher is not always better. 100–150 bar is optimal for most car washing; above 200 bar risks paint damage.
- Nozzle angle — a 25° fan nozzle is standard for rinsing; a foam nozzle (low-pressure, high-volume) is used for active foam application.
- Distance — maintain 20–30 cm from the surface. Too close concentrates force on a small area; too far reduces cleaning efficiency.
Foam lance attachments:
A foam lance adapter converts the high-pressure lance into a foam applicator. It draws concentrate from an attached bottle and mixes it with water to produce thick foam. This is common in self-service bays and detailing setups.
For professional wash bays, foam is typically applied via a separate low-pressure circuit with a dosing pump, while the lance handles rinsing only. Proper technique and adequate contact time between foam application and rinsing are essential for best results.