What is important to know when choosing a pneumatic spray gun?

Rollers and brushes are a relic of the past. Today, both professionals and amateurs choose spray guns as a painting tool. And there are reasons for this:

1. Excellent work quality
2. Save time
3. Reduced paint consumption

Spray guns are used everywhere - from construction sites and furniture workshops to car services. Each task requires a certain type of tool, and the main thing here is not to miscalculate. How to choose a pneumatic spray gun and not make a mistake? Let's look at this issue in detail.

To be fair, we note that in addition to pneumatic ones (“powered” by air from compressors), there are also electrical devices (powered by the network). However, it is pneumatic spray guns that are more popular.

Rating of electric spray guns

To compile the review, we selected tools from well-known brands with different technical characteristics. Experts analyzed the features of the work, the quality of the assembly and the components used. When compiling the rating of electric spray guns, user reviews and the opinions of professional finishers were taken into account. The main attention was paid to the following parameters:

• Power – affects productivity, painting speed;
• Tank volume – the frequency of refueling depends on the characteristics;
• Nozzle – the variety of paint and varnish materials used depends on the diameter;
• Operating principle – air and airless models are produced;
• Vibration level – affects the quality of work and comfort of use.

Failure of the pump, quickly clogged nozzles, damage to the tank - models with such defects were excluded from our rating.

Best nail guns

How to dilute

The homogeneity of the mixture ready for application largely depends on the component used in the dilution. Before diluting paint for a spray gun, you should read the manufacturer’s recommendations on the packaging, since each paint and varnish material has its own unique composition. Unfortunately, there is no universal means for thinning paint, and although we know such famous solvents as 646 or white spirit, they are not suitable for all paint and varnish mixtures. For example, acrylic-urethane paint is best diluted with solvent R-12, and if you use the previously mentioned products, you can burn the coloring pigment.

You can use universal solvents only when you do not know the name of the paint and are pouring it from an unnamed canister. Or, if the quality requirements are as low as possible. In other cases, you should follow the recommendations on the packaging of a specific mixture or on the manufacturer’s official website. When choosing a solvent/thinner, it is necessary to take into account the temperature of the room in which painting will be done, or the weather if you paint outside. According to temperature conditions, solvents can be divided into 3 groups:

• Slow. Used for painting at temperatures above 25°C.
• Normal. In the range of 18-25°C.
• Fast. When the mercury value is from 10 to 18°C.

Glossy paints, such as pearl or metallic, are diluted only with slow solvents. Otherwise, unevenness, stripe and cloud effects will form on the dried surface.

Best Inexpensive Electric Spray Guns

Low price is not synonymous with poor quality. Manufacturers of inexpensive tools reduce costs by reducing the volume of the tank and installing low-power pumps. Such devices are reliable, efficient, but do not have high performance. The equipment is intended for painting garage doors in a private home, varnishing furniture, and whitewashing ceilings. Equipment from this category is a rational choice for private use.

Stavr KE-800

The lower location of the tank improves visibility: the user clearly sees the nuances of the surface being treated. Refers to low pressure models that are economical. Optimized air supply forms small droplets, evenly distributing them in the torch structure. The tank volume contributes to high productivity: the number of refills is minimal.

The pump is located at the bottom and has a comfortable handle and shoulder strap for carrying. The length of the hose creates comfortable working conditions. The 2 m long electric cable has an elastic braid. The quality of painting and enamel consumption are regulated by the user. The manufacturer has provided the ability to change the shape of the torch taking into account the characteristics of the sprayed paint and varnish material.

Advantages:

• Uniform coloring;
• The rubberized handle fits comfortably in the hand;
• Low vibration level;
• Air supply adjustment;
• Accurate consumption.

Flaws:

• Short electrical cable.

The model is designed to work with various types of paints and varnishes, including enamels with high viscosity. A funnel with a built-in viscometer will help you determine this parameter for the sprayed liquid. To clean the nozzle, a special rod is included in the delivery set.

Special Bpn-600

The spray gun is equipped with a single-phase commutator motor. Double insulation provides effective protection against electric shock. The container for spray compounds is located at the bottom of the gun and does not block the view. Works with low pressure, evenly distributing the paint material. The maximum permissible viscosity allows the application of enamels, varnishes, and antiseptics.

A remote pump with a 1.8 m hose; the equipment is lightweight and has a convenient handle for carrying. Belt included. The feed amount is varied using the regulator located on the start button. Depending on the position of the nozzle, it produces a vertical, horizontal jet and a flow with a circular cross-section. It features easy maintenance of the nozzle and air filter.

Advantages:

• Light weight;
• Increased productivity;
• Durable engine;
• Service life more than 5 years;
• Easy setup and use.

Flaws:

• Plastic needle in a spray bottle.

Diold Cre-3

A good option for those who have planned a large amount of finishing work. It is equipped with an electric motor with a forced cooling system, which makes it possible to paint for 30 minutes without interruption. The electric motor is double insulated and protected from radio interference, which increases its service life. The remote compressor is connected to the gun with a hose 1.8 meters long. The switch is reliably protected from dust, convenient access to the filter simplifies maintenance.

The reservoir has a lower location. The nozzle of increased diameter allows the use of different types of paintwork materials. The petals are installed in one of three positions, creating a flat and round jet. Adjusting the flow rate helps to evenly use materials with different consistencies. The nozzle shape can be easily adjusted to paint hard-to-reach surfaces.

Advantages:

• Easy cleaning;
• Carrying strap;
• Start button lock;
• Light weight.

Flaws:

• There are no nozzle cleaning products included.

Bort Bfp-280

A model with a built-in pump, small size and lack of connection to a portable compressor makes it convenient to use in hard-to-reach places. Works at low pressure, distributing paint evenly. Low fogging and lower location of the tank make use comfortable for a beginner. The supply of enamel or antiseptic compounds is controlled using a rotary switch next to the start button, which makes it possible to use any surface materials with different adhesion to paintwork materials.

The rubberized handle provides a secure grip. Light weight: the hand does not get tired during short painting. The coloring is uniform, without streaks. The design is simple, providing easy access to filters for routine maintenance.

Advantages:

• Low vibration level;
• Extended warranty 5 years;
• Economical consumption;
• Good equipment.

Flaws:

• Small nozzle diameter.

And some more tips:

1. For convenience and more delicate work, choose spray guns equipped with adjustments - air flow, paint flow, and torch shape. For example, adjusting the spray pattern on your paint sprayer will help achieve wider coverage.
2. Working with a paint sprayer requires careful cleaning of the air leaving the compressor from oil, which will inevitably be in it. If your compressor is not oil-free, you need to take care of cleaning the air from oil - install a filter at the outlet

Having replenished your knowledge base, you can safely go for a spray gun. To consolidate, better understand and remember, we recommend that you watch a specially prepared video that will help you determine which spray gun is better:

The best electric spray guns at an average price

By purchasing an electric spray gun for painting walls and ceilings in the mid-price category, the buyer gets at his disposal a more productive tool with expanded functionality. Manufacturers equip models in this segment with more powerful engines, tanks with increased volume, and long hoses. The equipment is designed for intensive use and can be used in the private sector and by small non-specialized teams.

Bison KPE-750

The design is designed for painting large areas: the remote compressor has wheels and a handle for transportation, and a 4-meter long hose allows you to paint walls in rooms with high ceilings. Powerful motor ensures high performance. A nozzle of increased diameter quickly and evenly distributes paint, regardless of the relief and configuration of the object being processed. Adjustable flow rate allows you to choose the optimal painting mode.

The user can change the shape of the nozzle, choosing the optimal torch for painting vertical or horizontal surfaces and working in hard-to-reach places. Created using HVLP technology, it transfers a large percentage of paint with minimal losses due to rebound and fogging. It is easy to clean after use thanks to its collapsible design.

Advantages:

• Reliable engine;
• Stable painting under increased loads;
• Suitable for any paintwork materials;
• Low noise compressor;
• Available components;
• Low vibration.

Flaws:

• Small tank volume.

Black+Decker Hvlp400

Electric floor spray gun for all types of paint; the equipment can be used for applying polyurethane. It is equipped with a hose 6 meters long, with a reliable tight fit system. This allows you to spend less time moving the compressor. Side filling of the tank is convenient and easy thanks to the wide neck. An indicator helps monitor the consumption of paint and varnish material.

The nozzle diameter is optimized with the engine power. The decorative layer is applied evenly. Adjusting the nozzle allows you to select the shape of the torch to treat surfaces with any relief. The user can change the location of the aspiration tube depending on the spray angle. The manufacturer has provided easy access to the filters and power supply for regular maintenance.

Advantages:

• Container for diluting paints and varnishes included;
• Light pistol;
• Easy cleaning of the sprayer;
• No leaks.

Flaws:

• Pauses are required every 25-30 minutes.

Wagner W 100

Designed for painting small to medium sized objects. The configuration of the device and high performance make it convenient for interior work, painting fences, metal structures, and utility buildings. Current-carrying elements have reliable two-layer insulation. No grounding required during operation. At the point of connection to the paint sprayer, the power cable is reinforced and well protected from damage and chafing.

A spray intensity regulator is installed on the trigger guard. The union nut allows you to quickly change the shape of the torch and adjust the tool to the characteristics of the materials being painted and working conditions. The spacious tank is made of impact-resistant translucent polymer, which makes it easy to control paint consumption. The nozzle and needle fit tightly to the feed channel, this avoids leaks. The standard nozzle can be replaced with specialized components for fine work.

Advantages:

• The nozzle is easily removed for cleaning;
• Convenient to work in cramped conditions;
• Suitable for confectioners;
• Distributes paint evenly.

Flaws:

• Low power.

Hammerflex PRZ600

An air sprayer capable of uniformly applying compounds to a surface. The modification with a remote compressor is equipped with a tank made of translucent plastic, on the surface of which there is a marking to control consumption. It is connected to the pump using an elastic reinforced hose. The paint consumption is adjusted with a circular regulator.

The case has a compartment for storing components and auxiliary accessories. The viscometer is included. The shape of the torch is adjusted with a nut. The power is sufficient for using paintwork materials with high viscosity. The supply system reduces the consumption of paints and varnishes by 30%. The characteristics of the engine and the separation of the compressor and the gun made it possible to reduce vibration levels to a minimum.

Advantages:

• Double electrical insulation;
• Good equipment;
• Convenient carrying handle;
• 5 year warranty.

Flaws:

• Low elasticity of the gasket under the tank cover.

Device selection criteria

When choosing a spray gun for use at home, the owner needs to focus on his own needs. To do this, you need to understand what functions it will need. And only after that should you move on to studying the characteristics of the model that interests you.

The key parameters of the spray gun that should be considered when choosing are the following:

1. Pressure . Most compressors can compress air up to 6-8 bar. With this indicator, the motor automatically turns on and pumps in air. But there are devices that can maintain operating pressure at 10 bar.
2. Productivity . One of the main characteristics on which the quality of the work performed depends. It should be understood that the performance of the tool is not affected in any way by the volume of compressed air that the device can produce in one minute of working time. The performance of a particular model can only be determined in practice by creating special conditions for it. Therefore, this parameter will be different for each device.
3. Spray adjustment . This feature can be very useful if you are going to paint the ceiling. With its help, you can change several actions without taking breaks during work:

• output air indicators;
• torch shape;
• needle stroke.

The best professional electric spray guns

For use on construction sites, workshops produce electric spray guns for water-based paint and varnish, which are characterized by an increased service life and high productivity. The equipment is well equipped; all main components can be quickly disassembled for regular maintenance. High-quality materials are used in production. Our experts recommend the two best models with reliable compressors and even paint distribution.

Wagner W 450

Designed for painting walls and ceilings with latex, water-dispersion paints. Can be used for spraying plants, treating wood with fire retardants or varnishes. The material flow rate is adjustable over a wide range from 0 to 230 ml/min. This allows you to select the optimal mode and obtain a high-quality decorative coating.

The distribution system is distinguished by its strict torch geometry, which makes it possible to paint edges and corners in one pass. The patented nozzle for water-based paints makes work economical. Spraying is cloudless even when working in a horizontal position. A special nozzle allows you to use an electric spray gun to treat a car with an anti-corrosion compound based on liquid rubber.

Advantages:

• Capacious tank;
• Quick cleaning when changing paint color;
• High performance;
• Extension cable included;
• Relief overlay on the handle.

Flaws:

• Short cord.

Bosch PFS 5000 E

The tool is designed for all types of paint; for glaze, water-based emulsion and enamels, the kit includes special nozzles that allow you to spray paintwork without dilution. High application speed allows for use on large construction sites. Increased engine power guarantees high-quality, uniform spraying at any speed of work.

The equipment comes with two containers for paint, this reduces the number of refills and ensures continuous painting. The portable compressor is equipped with wheels for easy movement. A 4 meter long hose helps to increase the working area. The quality of painting does not depend on the geometry of the surface and its location: the tool evenly applies enamel overhead or when working close to the floor.

Advantages:

• Efficient tank fastening system with quick replacement;
• Air flow adjustment;
• Foot switch;
• Convenient winding of the hose onto the body;
• Durable plastic.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Examples of specific solvents

The most common paint thinners are:

• № 646;
• № 647;
• № 650;
• R-4;
• White Spirit.

No. 646 is a polar solvent. The substance is quite aggressive. It is often used for washing spray guns after use. It is not used to dilute paints. Suitable only for diluting acrylic mixtures.

No. 647 is also from the polar category. Widely used when working with nitro varnishes and similar coloring compositions.

Polar Solvent No. 650 can be used on a wide range of materials. It is quite versatile; it can be used to dilute almost any paint when painting with a spray gun.

P-4 (polar) - used only with alkyd enamels. It is incompatible with other dyes.

White spirit is the only non-polar substance on this list for dissolving oil and alkyd enamels.

To dilute the paint composition, percentages are usually used. Most often, you need to pour 50-60% of the solvent into the working composition and mix thoroughly. Any type of sprayer can operate on this mixture. A spray gun is usually used to paint surfaces of a large area; a small spray gun is used to apply small strokes and designs. If the proportion written on the package is violated, the paint will either not paint over small cracks or will leak heavily. Therefore, you should not violate factory recommendations.

How to choose an electric spray gun

Manufacturers offer equipment in different price categories. How to choose an electric spray gun that will serve you well for several years? The answer to this question is relevant for everyone who is planning to purchase an instrument. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you need to pay attention to the basic characteristics - power, tank volume, pressure. The scope and type of equipment used matters.

Type of spray gun

They produce airless and air models. The tool is distinguished by its performance and quality of painting. In air models, paints and varnishes are sprayed by vacuuming with air. The paint is applied in an even thin layer. This allows you to use equipment for painting a car, applying decorative coatings to wooden frames of windows and doors. The disadvantage of the design is the low paint utilization rate. In airless models, the compounds are supplied under very high pressure. This ensures complete transfer of the compounds used, but the layer may be uneven.

Application area

Not all devices are universal: technical parameters limit the scope of application. To paint a car, work with water-based paints, and polyurethane-based compositions, it is necessary to select specialized models. An alternative is professional equipment with a powerful compressor and several attachments included.

Power

For painting small surfaces: furniture, wooden toys, decorative items, you can choose a model with a power of up to 200 W. For finishing work in an apartment, house or small commercial property, choose a 450-600 W tool. For professional use, body and facade work, you need equipment of 600-1200 W, capable of providing stable high output power.

Tank volume

The household model is capable of using 300-400 g of paint and varnish material within a minute. The smaller the tank, the more often you will have to refuel. The downside of a container with a larger volume is that the weight of the tool increases. It is difficult to hold a heavy sprayer suspended; this negatively affects the quality of painting and leads to excess consumption of emulsion. The recommended volume for household use is 700-800 ml.

Pressure

Productivity and consumption of paints and varnishes depend on this characteristic. They produce models with low, medium and high pressure. At low pressure (up to 3 atmospheres), the speed of paint movement is average, its consumption is 60-70%. As a result, a thin, uniform decorative layer is formed. Medium pressure devices (up to 10 atmospheres) provide increased productivity with high quality painting. High-pressure models (up to 55 atmospheres) allow you to quickly work on large objects, but the increased speed of paint movement increases fogging and energy consumption.

Determination of viscosity

The consistency of a substance can be very approximate, especially when determining it “by eye”, without the use of special equipment, and even more so, experience. Of course, you can always refer to the fluidity of certain common liquids (oil, kefir, shampoo), but you will never be able to achieve accurate indicators this way. Namely, the basis for uninterrupted quality of work is the ability to set the exact viscosity of the paint for the spray gun. Determination of paint viscosity is carried out with a simple device - a viscometer, and the data obtained is calculated in DIN units or seconds (in domestic models). The device of the viscometer is extremely simple and consists of a 100 ml container with a hole of 4, 6 or 8 mm and a holder that can be removable. Budget models are made of plastic, while more professional ones are made of polished metal. We'll tell you how to use a viscometer to measure paint viscosity point by point:

1. We fill the container full with paint, after plugging the bottom hole of the device with your finger.
2. We take a stopwatch and start it, while simultaneously removing our finger, thereby opening the way for the mixture to flow out.
3. When the container is completely empty (drops don’t count), stop the stopwatch and record/memorize the time.
4. We compare the obtained data with the table included with the viscometer and determine the viscosity of our paint in DIN.

Average performance for a 4 mm hole:

• Alkyd enamels and nitro enamels – 15-22 sec.
• Acrylic paints – 14-20 sec.
• Water-based paints – 18-26 sec.
• Oil paints – 15-22 sec.
• Water – 13 sec.

It is important to note that the measurement should be carried out at a temperature of 20-22°C. In the cold, the paint thickens, and in the warmth, on the contrary, it becomes more liquid.

A visual process of handling a viscometer, with comments, is demonstrated in the video below.

Which electric spray gun is better?

Which electric spray gun is better to buy for the home, and which one to use on a construction site? There is no universal solution. For occasional use, you can buy an inexpensive household tool, but for professional use you will need a top model from a well-known brand. The VyborExperta.ru team recommends the following brands:

• Stavr KE-800 - for repairs in a small apartment, in the country;
• Bort Bfp-280 – option for a home workshop;
• Bison KPE-750 – for painting a country house;
• Hammerflex PRZ600 – for planned repairs in a cottage;
• Bosch Pfs 5000 E is the choice of professionals.

All the sprayers from our review are worthy of attention, but only the most economical and reliable ones deserve the title of the best tool in their category.

What to do if the mixture is too liquid

If your solution has lost its viscosity due to excessive dilution, there are only two ways to return it to its former consistency.

1. Add exactly the same, but thicker paint to it. If we are talking about oil, alkyd or nitro enamels, you can try adding alkyd varnish or another binding mixture used in the production of your paint to the solution.
2. Let sit for several hours or days, stirring occasionally. Since the solvent tends to evaporate, a certain part of it will come out. It is advisable to increase the evaporation area and install the container in a constantly ventilated place.

As an extreme option, which will clearly affect the quality of the material, you can try cooling the paint in the refrigerator.
If the color is white, you can try adding filler (gypsum, chalk, talc). Even if your paint is too thin, the spray gun will be able to spray it, and even quite well if you install a nozzle of a smaller diameter. Therefore, you should not despair too much and resort to extreme measures.

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Equipment options for various fields of activity

Today there are many types of equipment that are suitable for different types of activities. In this case, it is recommended to focus on the following tips:

• For domestic use, a piston oil compressor can be used from time to time. Now there are many ready-made stations on sale that supply pressure up to 8 bar. Such kits include a receiver with a volume of 6-100 liters. Experts advise using a container of at least 50 liters. Such devices can operate for 20 minutes every hour.
• Semi-professional compressor stations are based on oil piston compressors, which have a coaxial or belt drive. Their kit includes a receiver with a minimum volume of 50 liters. The devices also cannot be used constantly. However, effective operating parameters are up to 40 minutes for every hour. Average pressure readings reach 16 bar.
• Industrial equipment that belongs to the professional category does not have clear parameters. Its typical feature is the impressive size of its receivers. They reach 1 cubic meter. Such stations may feature continuous operation. At the same time, you can buy devices that fit any needs.

For one-time garage work, you can assemble the compressor yourself. To do this, it is recommended to buy oil and moisture traps and pressure switches. It is also necessary to prepare an empty gas cylinder. In this case, it is permissible to use a compressor from a refrigerator as a supercharger. Such elements will help to obtain a piston oil device.

For simple one-time work, you can assemble the device yourself

Compressors for spray guns differ in design features and can be used to solve different problems. This allows each user to choose the best option based on their needs. Experts advise considering the price-quality ratio.