Tuesday Tech Tip #7

This article is part 2 of a series. You can read part 1 "The Gun" here.

Application is key for consistent quality results in Automotive or any other spray coatings application using traditional compliant equipment.

A cornerstone for achieving the desired result is ensuring both the application equipment and the applicators physical application of the product is (as much as possible) the same every time the spraygun is picked up.

The information presented on here is to outline the basic fundamentals to set any applicator (who may not be aware) of the importance of gun setup and application.

As in any change of technique or the learning of a new way of doing something, the key is Practice, Practice, Practice.

Application

The even physical application of the paint by the applicator (along with gun set up) plays a huge role in achieving a great painted result.

This can be broken down into 3 main points.

1. Distance:, Because modern compliant guns atomise at the air cap at 10psi (not 20psi as they once did) it is important to maintain a close distance of the nozzle to the panel, of approx 100mm. This close distance allows the paint to reach the panel in a finely atomized state which in turn allows the paint to flow out and lay down nicely.
   If your distance from the panel is too great the paint will struggle to reach the panel finely atomised and the paint wont flow as it should, this can result in things like orange peel and dry spray.
2. Overlaps: The overlaps between strokes are also important, traditional overlaps tended to be at an overlap of 50/50, however many painters are now adopting more of a 70% overlap between strokes for a more even application of product. This tighter overlap is achievable because of the needle setting.
3. Speed: Due to a closer application distance and increased overlaps, it therefore follows the speed of the application must increase. You will find the speed of application that suits your style with a little practice.

Distance, Overlaps and Speed - These are the key points to bear in mind during application, but it takes… Practice, Practice, Practice. Master these and see the consistent quality of every job improve.

This tip was originally written for DBNZ Coatings and has been re-posted with permission.

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