7th Feb 2025
When it comes to spray painting, choosing the right equipment is crucial for achieving smooth, even finishes. One of the most popular types of spray guns is the HVLP sprayer, but how do you know if you're using or buying one? Identifying an HVLP sprayer can be tricky if you're unfamiliar with the details, so this guide will break down the key features that set these sprayers apart from other types.
What is an HVLP sprayer?
HVLP stands for high volume, low pressure. This type of sprayer uses a high volume of air to atomise the paint at a lower pressure, ensuring less overspray and a smoother, more controlled finish. HVLP sprayers are commonly used for fine finish work, like furniture or automotive painting, due to their ability to apply paint efficiently and evenly.
Key characteristics of an HVLP sprayer
- High volume, low pressure: As the name suggests, HVLP sprayers operate with a high volume of airflow and low pressure. This design helps to reduce overspray, making it ideal for situations where you want to minimise wasted paint and avoid overspray mess.
- Adjustable airflow: Most HVLP sprayers allow you to adjust the airflow. This is essential for fine-tuning the finish, allowing you to control how much paint is released.
- Large air cap: HVLP sprayers are often identified by their larger air cap compared to conventional spray guns. This larger cap helps spread the paint evenly while maintaining a low pressure.
- Design: HVLP sprayers typically use a gravity-feed, pressure-feed or siphon-feed design for the paint reservoir.
- Nozzle configuration: The nozzle setup is key in ensuring smooth paint application. In HVLP sprayers, the nozzle is often wider and designed to control the flow and dispersion of paint.
- Air compressor or turbine power source: HVLP sprayers require a dedicated air compressor or turbine to provide the airflow. A turbine unit is most commonly seen in portable HVLP systems, while larger setups may use a compressor. Smaller turbines are used for portable, lighter units, while more powerful compressors are used for more demanding workloads.
How to test if you have an HVLP sprayer
- Check the specifications: Refer to the user manual or product description. It should mention HVLP technology if it’s built to high-volume, low-pressure standards.
- Inspect the pressure settings: Use a pressure gauge to check the pressure at the nozzle. An HVLP sprayer will have a significantly lower PSI compared to conventional spray guns. Depending on the make of a HVLP spray unit, this can be as low as 7psi.
- Test the spraying pattern: Turn on the sprayer and observe the paint output. HVLP sprayers will produce a fine and even spray pattern with low spray mist. The paint will be finely atomised, leaving a smooth finish without the heavy mist that comes from traditional sprayers.
- Look for a turbine or compressor: If your sprayer is powered by a turbine, it’s most likely an HVLP model. If it requires a separate compressor, it may still be HVLP but check the PSI ratings to be sure.
Why choose an HVLP sprayer?
- Minimised waste: HVLP sprayers are designed to reduce overspray and waste, making them more efficient than traditional sprayers.
- Fine finishing: These sprayers provide a smooth, even coat of paint, which is especially beneficial for jobs requiring a professional, smooth finish.
- Reduced health risks: The low-pressure design reduces the chances of fine paint mist inhalation, providing a safer working environment.
Conclusion
Identifying an HVLP sprayer involves looking for a combination of features such as high air volume, low pressure, adjustable controls, and a larger air cap. Understanding these characteristics will not only help you identify an HVLP sprayer but also help you choose the right sprayer for your projects.
HVLP sprayers are a fantastic choice for high-quality, efficient painting. As the UK’s sole distributor of all major spray equipment brands – including Graco, DeVilbiss, Binks, Wagner, TriTech, WIWA, and Anest Iwata – Airblast Eurospray has the expertise and range to help you find the ideal sprayer for your needs. Get in touch today to explore your options!
