The painting equipment presented on the construction market has long been not limited to the traditional set of brushes, rollers and auxiliary accessories. Today, this list is expanding, including through high-tech tools that can optimize the process of applying coatings. Attempts to automate the painting work, saving the master from painstaking work, have been made many times. But the most successful at the moment is the Graco paint spraying machine, available in several models. The advantages of this tool include an innovative approach to the implementation of spraying paintwork. However, on the market you can find many similar offers, which also deserve attention.
What is a painting apparatus?
Initially, the spraying concept involved the use of two components: the spray gun itself and the compressor, which ensured its operation. The need to purchase two units to perform one function complicated the choice on the part of the user, as a result of which the idea arose to combine these elements into one complex. The modern painting apparatus resembles a small station designed to spray the working composition to the surface. This kit includes a direct spray gun with a nozzle, which carries out the release of the solution, as well as a unit in the form of a compressor unit. However, the configuration may vary. For example, today the airless spray system has become popular, which is worth talking about separately.
Airless Spray Method
A feature of this approach to spraying is the operation of the pump, which exerts force through the hose. In essence, spraying is carried out using the same pressure as in pneumatic devices, but its performance is much higher. Compared to traditional instruments of this type, the airless spraying apparatus allows the composition to pass through a nozzle with a small diameter. There are pros and cons to this decision. As for the advantages, they consist in the possibility of working with viscous paint and varnish solutions. When exiting the nozzle, the composition is crushed, so there are no problems with application.
However, a high pressure force causes disadvantages in the form of the formation of sagging on the working surfaces. For this reason, the airless paint sprayer is not suitable for delicate painting operations with high demands on the quality of the finish.
Key Features
When choosing this station should take into account such parameters as engine power, performance and pressure indicator. The power potential of electrical units varies from 2 to 5 kW. In this range, the equipment can provide a capacity of up to 10 l / min. Small low-power devices produce about 5 l / min. One of the main indicators of the health of this equipment is pressure. It is this characteristic that fundamentally distinguishes new models of airless devices from classical air guns.
So, as standard, the high-pressure spray booster provides 230 bar. This value is comparable to the performance of professional spray guns working in conjunction with piston and screw compressors. Accordingly, with the help of such an aggregate it is quite possible to paint a large area surface, for example, a production site, ship deck, tank or car, in a short period of time.
Varieties of spraying machines
The equipment is available in two versions: with an electric and gasoline engine. The first models are focused on the implementation of construction and repair operations, including cosmetic interior decoration and larger-scale industrial events. The advantages of an electric motor include small dimensions and maneuverability. In addition, high-performance models with this drive allow the possibility of connecting an additional spray gun. Gasoline spraying apparatus, as a rule, is independent in terms of freedom of movement and high power. For these advantages, the user will have to put up with spent fuel exhausts, which makes it difficult to use such a station indoors.
Model Reviews by Graco
It is worth starting a review of reviews with a company that laid the foundation for a new generation of paint equipment segment. One of the most successful developments of the company is the Mark V. unit. It is used both for industrial purposes and in solving domestic household problems. Users note that the Graco Mark V spraying machine effectively copes with interior and facade work. The installation easily spray even dense acrylic and latex compounds, as well as epoxy paints and putty solutions. Owners of equipment are praised as well as a wide range of equipment, which includes a direct spray gun, a protective device and a double-sided nozzle with adapters and hoses.
Wagner model reviews
One of Graco’s few competitors in the market for painting equipment is Wagner, which has attracted the attention of many professionals and ordinary users with the rather successful HeavyCoat 950 G. This is a high-power unit that is available in both electric and gasoline versions. As the owners note, the Wagner painting apparatus in this design provides not only a high speed of application of paint, but also high-quality formation of the final coating. That is, the main problem of airless spray guns is eliminated - the presence of smudges and bumps. The Wagner model delicately applies light formulations and acrylic solutions. Best of all, this unit is answered by masters who work with interior decoration, since this direction requires not so much high performance as the quality of the coating applied.
Titan model reviews
Another development from the general family of airless painting machines. If the previous two models are nevertheless oriented to work with large volumes, the Impact 740 device specializes in high precision and accuracy of painting. Owners of this model appreciate its mobility, compact size and robust design. Separately, the use of a special regulator is noted, due to which the painting apparatus can supply different volumes of solution. Moreover, the range of suitable compositions for work is also quite extensive. This list includes both water-based products and one-component materials, as well as enamels and primers.
Nuances of equipment operation
Before performing painting operations, it is important to fix the installation with the engine in a stationary position. Some models provide the possibility of lifting the structure on special steps. In such cases, special care must be taken in safety measures. Next, you can proceed to connect the unit and directly apply the composition. Almost all airless spray guns contain a spray gun as standard. With its help, the surface is coated with a paint and varnish mass. In the course of work, the user can also adjust the parameters of the composition supply depending on the requirements for the final result.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, it is not yet possible to realize all the necessary qualities of modern painting equipment in airless devices. Even the Mark V painting machine, which is one of the best representatives of the segment, is not suitable for finishing surfaces. This opportunity is supported by models from Titan and Wagner, but they have their drawbacks. For example, compact models for delicate application of paint are not suitable for use in large-scale projects. Therefore, the selection process should focus not on the universality of such devices, but on their ability to cope with specific tasks. In their niches, all models show good results, making it possible to carry out stylish interior decoration and ennoble massive industrial structures.