This article will explore airless spraying and its benefits before understanding if we need to thin paint before using an airless sprayer. 

Airless spray is a painting technique that simplifies the process of painting. According to corrosionpedia the simplification of the painting technique can be achieved by using an airless sprayer that pumps the paint under very high pressure, around 3000 psi, via a specialized hose into a small hole in the nozzle of the sprayer.

Most painters prefer Airless spraying because the result is a smooth and even finish, which can withstand wear and tear and harmful corrosion effects, which is the ultimate desire of every paint finishing work.

In the airless spray technique, spray guns that work under high pressure are used to make atomization of coating possible. The airless spraying method is primarily used in heavy-duty marine, chemical, and industrial linings and coatings. Some of the significant advantages of this spraying method include;

• Better penetration of the coating into crevices and pits, which might otherwise not happen with manual or roller brushes 
• Evenly spread coating, which means fewer coats needed, makes it an economically better option because wastage is eliminated.
• Wet coating guarantees excellent flow-out and adhesion.

In this system, almost all types of coating can be used using only a small amount of thinner. This shortens the drying time and the discharge of solvents to the atmosphere. Different types of tips are available for the spray gun, which allow the application of thicker house paints and thinner ones, such as varnish and lacquer. Additionally, airless spray painting allows for more precise pressure control and speed unless the direction changes.

At this point, we can now answer the question that informs this article. The question is if a thinner is needed before using an airless sprayer. The short answer is no, and a good painter can employ an airless sprayer for both thin and thick coatings. As distributors, we carry some of the best brands in airless and paint finishing operations, such as Graco and HVban we also have sprayers such as the Airless Sprayer HVBAN HB760

However, extreme caution should be employed when applying paint through this method, as airless spray guns can predispose an individual to injuries since it uses high pressure. Airless sprayers are connected to electric mains and some are self-powered with gas such as the gas powered airless sprayer HVban GP8300 

Using the airless sprayer

An airless sprayer is the most efficient way to apply paint for larger painting jobs. An airless sprayer uses an electrically run hydraulic pump to move paint from a bucket or container, through a tube, into a high-pressure hose, a spray gun, and, finally, to the surface. Once you understand how this equipment work, you will be glad to use it, an airless sprayer is easy to use, Sometimes it could be pricy so you may have to rent one, but if you rent one, make sure you understand how to use it or ask for written instructions before you start using it.

The instructions will tell you how to flush the system with solvent (usually water or mineral spirits, thinner, depending on the paint you’ll be using) and pump the paint through the hose to the spray gun. For cleanup, the procedure is reversed: Pump the leftover paint out and flush with solvent.

Airless sprayers are equipped with several filters to keep paint particles and foreign matter from clogging the spray tip, but it’s a good idea to filter the paint yourself through a nylon stocking or paint filter before you pump the paint through the hose. 

Safety tips for using an airless sprayer

Airless sprayers are fast and efficient, and note that they supply pressures of up to 3,000 pounds per square inch. Such force build-up moves the paint at 100 to 200 miles an hour through the spray tip. All that power can be dangerous. Consequently, treat an airless sprayer with lots of respect, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. We have developed some instructions on how to use a sprayer to prevent accidents or injury:

• Keep the spray gun’s safety lock on when you’re not painting.
• Ensure the spray gun has a trigger guard and a safety shield around its tip.
• If the spray tip becomes clogged, do not try to clear it by pressing your finger on it while the paint is being sprayed. Keep your fingers away from the information when the sprayer is operating.
• Never point the gun at anyone else or allow anyone to tell it at you.
• Always turn the sprayer off and disconnect it from its electrical source before cleaning out the gun or the sprayer’s filters. If you have to clean the tip, squeeze the trigger to release any built-up pressure in the hose.
• Only work in a well-ventilated area, wear a painter’s mask to avoid inhaling fumes and don’t smoke or work around open flames. If you’re working outside, don’t leave containers of solvents sitting in the hot sun; put them in the garage or another shady spot.

contact us for more information on using the airless sprayer