Friday, November 8, 2013

Use An Air Gravity Spray Gun

A gravity-fed spray gun is powered by an air compressor.


Gravity-fed spray equipment produces a fine paint finish in minimal time with an efficient use of materials. Using a modern air gravity paint spray gun is a lot like using an older siphon-style gun. Most gravity-fed spray guns are of the high volume, low pressure (HVLP) variety. HVLP guns operate at lower air pressures than conventional spray equipment, resulting in more efficient paint transfer.


Instructions


1. Fill the spray gun with paint while propping the gun on the stand, if one is provided. Place a strainer above the paint cup and pour the paint through the strainer into the cup. Place the lid on the paint cup.


2. Connect the air hose to the spray gun. Adjust the air pressure at the compressor to 25 to 50 psi. The exact pressure requirement depends upon the design of the spray gun, the viscosity of the paint and the size of the spray cap.


3. Adjust the gun's spray pattern by turning the spray cap (on the front of the gun) to adjust for a vertical or horizontal spray pattern. The knob on the side of the gun adjusts the width of the spray pattern. Turn the knob on the back of the gun counterclockwise to let more paint flow or turn it clockwise for a lower flow. The knob at the base of the gun controls the gun's airflow.


4. Paint using steady strokes, keeping the tip of the gun 8 to 15 inches from the surface. Your distance should be closer for HVLP guns and further away when using conventional units. Sweep the gun from one end of the surface to the other, then overlap each pass by 50 percent.


5. Clean the gun by spraying the appropriate solvent or thinner through the gun. Continue spraying thinner through the gun until it comes out clear.