I'm about to embark on doing some spray finishing, and while I've searched the forum concerning spray equipment, there seems to be some conflicting opinions with regard to the appropriate equipment. I've used rattle-can lacquer and acrylic on a few occasions, sometimes with the piece off the lathe, and sometimes with it spinning on the lathe.
My current compressor is 4.5 gal, has a 1/4" hose on it, and is rated to supply 3 cfm at 90 psi. With that in mind, I'd like to get some feedback and have the following questions:
My current compressor is 4.5 gal, has a 1/4" hose on it, and is rated to supply 3 cfm at 90 psi. With that in mind, I'd like to get some feedback and have the following questions:
- When I've used the rattle-can, I spray for perhaps 3 seconds in one area and release. I repeat the brief spray application until I have the piece covered. Given that the psi at the gun is reduced to perhaps 25 psi, and the actual spray time is only for a few seconds at a time, will my current compressor be able to do the job?
- My plan is to use water bourn finishes (for safety reasons). When researching spray guns, much of the info I've read relates to automotive finishing. For spraying water bourn finishes for wood, what size needle is most appropriate?
- As I'll be spraying hollow forms, anywhere from 6" to 15" in height, what size cup would be appropriate?
- Is there a known shelf-life for water bourn finishes, and if so, what is it (approximately)?
- Should I use a water trap prior to the spray gun?
- As this is a new endeavor for me, I don't want to buy a high end gun. Will any of the guns in the $75 - $125 range give a good finish. What gun do you recommend?