How Do You Use a Low-Pressure Paint Air Sprayer?
Low-pressure paint sprayers, commonly called high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayers, are small, lightweight and cleaner to use than airless sprayers because they produce little overspray. They're best used for cabinets, doors, trim and even automobiles, because low-pressure paint sprayers apply a very smooth, glossy finish. The Environmental Protection Agency states that they create a "healthier workplace" and are cheaper to use than conventional sprayers. While the precise method of using a low-pressure sprayer varies depending on the model you are using, the basics are fairly straightforward.
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Things You'll Need
- Air compressor
- Spray tip
- Air hose
- Wrench
- Paint
- Clean bucket
- Latex paint conditioner (optional)
- Mineral spirits or solvent (optional)
- Stir stick
- Paint pot
Instructions
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Select the correct spray tip, also called a projector set, for the material you will be using. This is critical -- you cannot use a spray tip sized for low-viscosity material, such as lacquer, with latex paint, or vice versa.
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Attach the air hose to the compressor. Tighten all fittings with a wrench.
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Pour the paint into a clean bucket and thin it if necessary. Thin latex with latex paint conditioner when working in hot, dry conditions; thin oil-based products with mineral spirits. Mix it well with a stir stick. Pour the material carefully it into the paint pot.
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Screw the spray gun onto the paint pot.
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Test the pressure by spraying a little paint on a piece of scrap material. Adjust the air pressure up or down until you get an even spray pattern when the gun is held six to eight inches from the surface. For most applications, you should not hold the gun more than eight inches from the surface.
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Adjust the spray pattern to suit the type of surface you are spraying. Most guns have several settings, allowing you to spray horizontally, vertically or around, for larger, flat surfaces.
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Keep your wrist steady and the spray gun perpendicular to the surface as you spray. Apply light coats of paint, overlapping each previous pass by 50 percent. This ensures an even coat.
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Disassemble the gun and spray tip after use. Clean them thoroughly with a solvent that's appropriate for the material you sprayed.
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Tips & Warnings
There are two types of HVLP sprayers. Turbine units don't require a separate air compressor and are more portable. Non-turbine units consist of the paint pot, hose and spray gun and must be hooked up to a compressor.
Refer to the owner's manual for the type of low-pressure paint sprayer you're using for general use and troubleshooting advice.
Even though HVLP sprayers produce very little overspray, you still need to use dropcloths and masking materials to protect floors and adjacent surfaces.
Work in a well-ventilated area, using fans to dissipate fumes if necessary. If this isn't possible, wear a paint respirator.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit doors to be hung image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
