There is a glaring similarity between human beings and machines – their limited lifespans. But unlike humans, the lifespans of the machines can be manipulated. An Airless Sprayer is no different. Just like taking care of the body requires one to know about anatomy, the medicines, and healthy habits, taking care of an airless paint sprayer requires the basic know-how of its parts, how they work, and their cleaning methods.
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Well, there is also another kind of paint sprayer called HVLP. However, here we will discuss only Airless Paint sprayer. Hailing from the same family but differing in their build and usage, essentially, airless sprayers are for high production and the HVLP, for fine production. HVLP has a softer and controllable force while the airless sprayer has more speed and can cover more ground in less time. This means Airless paint sprayers are powerful than HVLP from a functional point of view.
However, both require attention to the individual parts when it comes to cleaning their parts, but the airless sprayers require quite the extra aftercare. Here are a few things to note about the maintenance of airless paint sprayer.
Relieving Pressure
It is important not to let the paint build up inside the sprayer and harden. The paint should always be pumped out meticulously from the sprayer and the airless hose. Or else, the built-up pressure would destroy the device.
Removing Paint
According to the material being used to spray, the paint remover one can use different. For lacquers, it is lacquer thinners; for latex, it is water; and for oil-based paints, it is mineral spirits. A bucket with the required remover should be filled up, and another bucket could be set up to empty the dirty fluid. The paint can be pumped out of the high-pressure hose using the spray and prime modes.
Keeping it cool
The turbine filters should be cleaned enough times to offer airflow to cool the motor and to atomize the fluid. It should be checked every day, and the manifold or the main filter should be cleaned every week. The paint on the sprayer should be cleaned after every use, as it can also cause overheating. While operating, using a motor cover is also recommended to keep the engine cool and functional.
Filtering out
Apart from the main filter, the gun filters should also be rinsed out. Besides, the suction filter should also be cleaned. It is located at the end of the suction hose and prevents sediments remaining in the paint from getting into the sprayer. It can be easily unscrewed and washed.
Clearing out the nozzles
Submerging the tip of the spray in the paint remover for a couple of minutes and then using a small brush to scrub either side of the nozzle does the job. An hourglass cleaning system containing the cleaning fluid can also be used. Blockages in the spray nozzles with other debris can be done away with nozzle needles. They can be guided into the nozzle channel to relieve the remaining paint.
Scrubbing the spray gun
Smaller sized cleaning brushes are required to get to the smaller parts of the spray gun. Aside from the gun’s filter and its nozzle, the gun itself, as well as the nozzle holder, should also be properly cleaned. The rubber and the plastic seals are easily broken, so a softer brush is recommended.
Oiling the machine
The oil level should be regularly monitored, and it should be changed after around 100 hours of operation. Piston pumps should receive a splash of oil before they are operated, and the inlet valve should be oiled after every use.
Bottomline
These few steps should keep any airless sprayer in tip-top condition. However, it is important to go over its manual thoroughly and do any necessary conditioning it may require. Regular cleaning and upkeep is the only way to ensure long life and save extra efforts.
