How to Choose a Paint Spray Gun

Q: What characteristics are critical to focus on when shopping for a liquid spray gun?

A: Finding the best gun for an application should involve more than focusing on one feature or capability. Before you decide, it’s essential to consider multiple factors relating to the gun’s features, performance, durability, serviceability and ergonomics throughout its life.

When it comes to product performance, consider the “Atomization Triangle” to ensure the best balance of the following three characteristics: application speed, improved transfer efficiency and finish quality.

Typically, when manufacturers focus on only one element of a product’s performance, it can be at the expense of other elements. For example, when focusing on finding a solution with higher transfer efficiency, you might find that some spray guns achieve this at the expense of application speed or quality of finish. Generally, a higher distribution of larger particles might equate to higher transfer efficiency. However, the laydown of larger droplets on a substrate might result in increased mottle. Therefore, compare particle sizes of atomized paint. Equally, particle size and consistency are important factors that reflect the variation of particle size spread generated by a gun’s spray performance.

Likewise, when considering application speed, investigate whether this spray gun does so at the expense of other factors. If it promises increased speed, it could affect transfer efficiency and air consumption. Spray-outs prior to use will guide a user to decide if the spray pattern is suitable for the required application.

Once a spray gun is selected that meets all spraying performance requirements, determine if it can be easily set up, serviced and maintained with minimal effort. Also, is the gun robust enough for your particular application?

User comfort is also essential but remember that gun weight alone is only part of the overall picture. Consider spray gun balance, and realize that the additional influence of hoses, cups and paint can impact the feel of a system.

All users and applications are different. Take advantage of a demonstration to help you decide which spray gun best balances the combination of requirements, ease of use and comfort. Contact a spray gun salesperson to request a demo or trial.