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What is a Turbine HVLP sprayer? High volume low pressure sprayers.

What is a Turbine HVLP sprayer? High volume low pressure sprayers.

Posted by Gary Alan Goel on Feb 29th 2024

A Turbine HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) sprayer is a type of paint sprayer that uses a turbine to generate airflow and atomize the paint, resulting in a fine, even spray pattern. This technology is widely used in various industries, including automotive, woodworking, and bathtub refinishing. Here are 55 major brands that produce Turbine HVLP sprayers: 

1. Fuji Spray

2. Graco

3. Apollo Sprayers

4. Capspray

5. Titan

6. Apollo

Turbine HVLP sprayers work by drawing air through an electric motor-driven turbine, which creates a high volume of low-pressure air. This air is then directed through a hose and into the spray gun. The paint is fed into the gun, where it is mixed with the air and atomized into tiny droplets. These droplets are then evenly sprayed onto the surface being coated. One of the major advantages of Turbine HVLP sprayers is their ability to produce a fine, spray pattern with minimal over spray. This results in a smooth finish and reduces the amount of paint wasted. Additionally, these sprayers are generally more portable and easier to use compared to other types of paint sprayers. 

Turbine HVLP sprayers are often sold in stages to accommodate different levels of power and performance. The difference between a 2-stage and 6-stage sprayer lies in the number of turbines used. A 2-stage sprayer has two turbines, while a 6-stage sprayer has six turbines. The higher the number of turbines, the more power the sprayer has, allowing it to atomize thicker coatings more effectively. Bathtub refinishers often choose Turbine HVLP sprayers for several reasons. Firstly, these sprayers provide a fine, even finish, which is essential for achieving a professional-looking bathtub refinishing job. 

Secondly, the low-pressure technology of HVLP sprayers reduces the risk of over spray, minimizing the mess and ensuring a cleaner working environment. Lastly, these sprayers are portable and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for refinishing bathtubs in tight spaces. When using a 2-stage Turbine HVLP sprayer, it may be necessary to over thin a low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) high solid coating. This is because a 2-stage sprayer may not have enough power to effectively atomize thicker coatings without over reducing them. Over reducing the coating compromises the integrity of low VOC coatings and can lead to a compromised end product. In the past, bathtub refinishing coatings were thinner and lower in solids, making them easier to atomize with 2 or 3-stage sprayers. 

However, with the advent of high solid low VOC coatings, more power is required to atomize them without over reducing. Over reducing these coatings not only affects their performance but also increases the release of VOCs, which is harmful to the environment and human health. In addition to their ability to produce a fine, even finish with minimal over spray, Turbine HVLP sprayers are also known for their high transfer rate of coatings. Transfer rate refers to the amount of paint that actually adheres to the surface being sprayed, as opposed to being lost in the air as over spray. Turbine HVLP sprayers are designed to maximize the transfer rate of coatings, resulting in efficient and cost-effective paint application.

 The combination of high volume and low pressure in these sprayers allows for better control and atomization of the paint particles, ensuring that a larger percentage of the coating reaches the surface. Compared to traditional airless or compressed air sprayers, Turbine HVLP sprayers typically achieve a higher transfer rate. This means that less paint is wasted, leading to cost savings and a more environmentally friendly application process. The high transfer rate of coatings by using a Turbine HVLP sprayer is particularly beneficial when working with expensive or specialized coatings. These sprayers can help minimize waste and ensure that the coating is evenly distributed, resulting in a more consistent and professional finish. Another advantage of the high transfer rate is the reduction in cleanup time and effort. With less over spray to deal with, there is less paint residue to clean up from surrounding areas, floors, or equipment. 

This can save valuable time and resources, making Turbine HVLP sprayers a preferred choice for many professionals. It is worth noting that while Turbine HVLP sprayers offer a high transfer rate, proper technique and adjustment of the sprayer settings are crucial to achieving optimal results. Factors such as air pressure, paint viscosity, and distance from the surface should be carefully considered and adjusted accordingly. Overall, the high transfer rate of coatings by using a Turbine HVLP sprayer enhances efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. This makes them a valuable tool for various industries, including bathtub refinishing, where achieving a smooth, even finish while minimizing waste is essential. In conclusion, Turbine HVLP sprayers are popular tools for bathtub refinishers due to their ability to produce a fine, even finish with minimal over spray. 

The choice of a 2-stage or 6-stage sprayer depends on the thickness of the coatings being used, with a 6-stage sprayer offering more power and efficiency. It is important to avoid over reducing low VOC coatings to maintain their integrity and minimize VOC emissions. For more information on the above mentioned brands of turbine HVLP sprayers or about Liquid Porcelain Enamel please call EAH Industrial at 210.822.9393 Article submitted by: Gary Alan Goel 

* Refinishing Photos provided by Darryl Anderson : https://www.facebook.com/darryl.bathtub?mibextid=...