Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

May, 2005

High Efficiency HVLP Spray Guns

Q. What have you heard about newer high efficiency gravity feed spray guns designed for the auto refinishing industry? I have only found the DeVilbiss Plus gun, which claims greater than 65% TE and has been approved for use in several California air districts including South Coast. Are there other high TE, non-HVLP spray guns approved for use in California?

A. Thanks for your question. Most gravity fed HVLP spray guns are efficient and can be used in automotive applications. Please don't be fooled by the >65% claim that is printed in an advertising brochure. The 65% transfer efficiency value is nothing more than a relative number and depends on numerous factors, including air and fluid pressures, gun-target distance, fan size, painter's techniques, size and configuration of the part, etc.. You will not get 65% T.E unless all or most of these parameters work in your favor.

DeVilbiss HVLP spray guns have an excellent reputation in the industry, but there are others that are equally good for your purposes, including Binks, Graco, Sata, and more.

In California you are permitted to use HVLP and electrostatic spray guns for automotive painting. Should you decide to select an electrostatic spray gun, you are free to purchase an airless, air-assisted airless, HVLP or conventional air atomizing spray gun .. provided that it operates on the electrostatic principle!

I hope this helps.

Best wishes,

Ron Joseph