I have been using an el cheapo $69 HVLP conversion gun from Harbor Freight tools and actually had it adjusted so it could spray shellac reasonably well. Maybe needed a little more sanding prior to rubbbing out. I usually do a variation of French Polishing after creating a base of 4-5 coats of shellac. Anyway, the gun is now irreversibly clogged and I’m ready to upgrade to something that will atomize more regularly and be more finely adjustable. I have a compressor with a 30 gal tank. I think I like the freedom of movement of the conversion gun as opposed to a turbine system where you have to move the pot along with the gun. Any advice on the pros and cons of each type of system and specific manufacturers recommendation would be appreciated. I am a serious hobbyist, but not pro so it gets used only every 6-9 months after I complete a piece of furniture. Thanks.
Jay
Replies
If your gun is clogged with shellac, it should be cleanable. Ammonia is a cheap solvent for shellac.
HVLP Spray Gun
If want you to start out with a quality spray gun, I'd go to a Sata MiniJet 4 or MiniJet 3000. Its a smaller gun, but has an excellent fan. You can get a decent used one one eBay for around $200. The cup is small, but you can buy a DeVilbiss DPC-52-K1 DeKups Spray Gun Adapter and use larger disposable caps. I'd start with a 1.0 nozzle set and add a 1.2 for lacquer.
If you want a full size gun buy a SataJet 3000 HLVP with a 1.4 nozzle set for thinned lacquer and 1.3 for water base. Expect to pay $300 for a used gun that may need some work and $400 on up for a 3000 HLVP Digital.
Iwata makes some very nice guns too. I am not as versed on Iwata as I am on Sata, but some spray painting experts say they are as good or better than Sata. Like any tool, buy the best you can afford and you'll never regret it . I bought several cheaper guns and a top-of-the-line turbine system, before switching to Sata on the advice a custom car painter. I have seven (7) Sata guns now, and my only regret is that I didn't buy all Sata sooner.
Your 30 gallon compressor should be more than enough for the Minijet, and will be OK for smaller furniture projects using the 3000 HLVP. I have a 60 gallon and have never run low on air doing furniture with 29 PSI at the gun.
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