Instructions for Paint Spray Guns

Using an air-fed spray gun correctly can result in a superior paint finish and minimum material waste. Modern paint materials are designed to be painted using high volume, low pressure (HVLP) spray guns that maximize atomization potential while keeping volatile organic compound emissions to a minimum level. Professional body shop procedures can take a little time to perfect, but by establishing a feel for the gun and only using professional quality materials, it is entirely possible to turn out perfect work every time.

Instructions

1

Ensure the spray gun is clean before use. Pour a small amount of cellulose thinners into the holding pot of the spray gun and pull back the trigger to remove accumulated dust from the chambers. Empty the holding pot and check the size of the fluid tip to make sure it is suitable for the material you are painting. Use a 1.2mm fluid tip for colors and a 1.4mm fluid tip for clear coats.

2

Activate the paint with hardener and reducer at the ratio specified by the manufacturer. Pour the paint into the holding pot through a paint strainer to remove traces of grit and secure the lid onto the holding pot tightly. Screw a pressure regulator onto the end of the spray gun and plug into an airline with a compressed air supply.

3

Wrap the palm of your working hand around the side of the spray gun so the fingers fall into position on the trigger comfortably. Use your spare hand to hold the airline away from the auto body panel to stop it brushing into the fresh paint once it is being applied. Position the gun at the top left-hand corner of the panel with the air cap positioned at a 30 degree angle facing downwards. Check that the holding pot is pointing directly upwards on vertical panels to clarify that the spraying angle is correct. Reverse this procedure by 90 degrees when painting horizontal panels.

4

Set the air pressure regulator to between 8 and 10 pounds per square inch. Maintain a distance of 6 to 8 inches from the surface of the panel and pull back the trigger to release the atomized paint. Begin to move the arm immediately across the face of the panel in a horizontal direction, maintaining a sufficient speed so that a wet coat is being applied without the risk of runs or sags appearing. Deactivate the trigger as the first arm movement is complete and lower the gun slightly so the next application of paint is made in the opposite direction with an approximate crossover of 30% to prevent the risk of dry edges.

5

Continue applying horizontal applications of paint while working downwards until the bottom of the panel is reached. Carry out a visual inspection to ensure all areas of the panel, including hidden edges, are covered. Leave the paint to cure for up to 10 minutes before applying a second and final coat. Dispose of the activated paint and clean the gun with cellulose thinners, making sure a small quantity is sprayed through the gun with an airline to clear residue from the chambers.