Airless Spray Gun
Learn about Airless Spray Guns and other airless spray equipment
Airless Spray Gun
An airless spray gun is one of the most efficient methods used in commercial painting. As the name suggests, an airless spray gun does not use compressed air to drive the paint to the surface. Instead it uses hydraulics to send pressurized paint over the tube. Because of the efficiency and the effectiveness of this method, it is often used for heavy duty industrial and chemical work.
Since the paint is directly delivered through a pressurized hose, this method has few advantages over other spray painting techniques. First of all it produces a thick uniform coating thus reducing the number of re-coatings required. Also because of the direct pressure, the paint has a much better penetration to pits and crevices. Generally, less solvent is released to the environment by this method because less thinner is used for the coating.
Most airless spray guns have filters to prevent large particles from clogging the paint nozzle. Before starting and after finishing using a spray gun, it should be properly flushed and cleaned with a solvent to prevent any build-up.
For the maximum effectiveness, an airless spray gun does require some practise beforehand. The spray gun should be held about 6 to 12 inches parallel to the surface at all times. If not, because of the high pressure it will be difficult to get a uniform coating. Avoid holding the spray gun at the same position for too long or too little as that may lead to paint patches.
These spray guns typically require a power supply of around 30AMPs. Therefore make sure the power outlet you plug in has the capacity to serve the device. Generally, the power outlets used for large home appliances (such as refrigerators, washing-machines) are able to support the power requirements of an electric airless paint sprayer.
As with any other painting activity, be sure to use an airless spray gun in a well ventilated area. If possible use an exhaust fan to release vapour out of the premises. Always use a painter's mask and other protective gear before you start work.