Air compression for painting

To master the supply of compressed air for paint application, here are some facts about air compressors for spraying paint. Unlike various pneumatic tools, such as a riveter or even a sander, a paint gun is a high-precision tool that requires very high airflow and cleanliness.
The ability of the air compressor to provide the right amount of air depends on its engine, but above all on the volume of its tank.

If the tank of this device is too small, the air pressure will quickly drop and drop : if the part to be painted is too large, then the painter will end up with a spray gun full of paint, without air, and half-painted bodywork.
Possible tank volume / coverage in m2*
24 Liters : approximately 1m2

* with a pressure >2 bars, the yield depends on the type of product

Spray paint application with an air compressor

Contaminants present in the air (dust, humidity) or forming in the compressor cause defects in the appearance of the paint applied.
You should know that inside the tank a compressor, water accumulates, with oil and rust. This reservoir must therefore be very regularly purged using the small valve that is unscrewed below. Up to several liters of dirty water can come out during the purge.

How do I get good quality air out of the compressor ?
All air compressors for spraying paint are equipped with a regulator filter. This is not really enough. For professional use, it is important to install a good filter in the cabin and/or before the gun.

Mini-compressors

They do not have tanks or reservoirs to store a supply of compressed air ! Mini-compressors therefore deliver the air directly. Given their small size and their very limited power, they can be suitable at most for drawing with an airbrush. When it comes to painting and coloring surfaces, their pressure and the flow rate do not allow enough product to be delivered. Their advantages : they weigh 2 or 3 kg and their motors make no more than 10db of noise (against at least 80db for a standard compressor).

Hardware maintenance

Whether you have economical or very high quality equipment, whatever the equipment, the gun above all, but also the compressor, the hose and the filter, it is essential to take great care with the maintenance, cleaning, thanks to regular checks and dismantling.
Note that the care devoted to the equipment will save you much more time due to the disappointments caused by bad equipment.
For the compressor, take the time to unscrew the screw under the tank and let the water flow out, this will preserve your tank and also your filters.

NEED MORE ADVICE ?

Please note that we offer a highly effective gun cleaning kit, consisting of various solvent-resistant brushes.
If you have any further questions, or would like advice on purchasing the best suited to your needs, contact our team of sales or technical advisors.

Air filters for applying paint
Compressed air hoses
Pneumatic fittings and accessories
Air regulators for applying paint