spraying poly

[backyard fun]

I hope others that are spraying poly get on this thread because I would like to hear what others are doing. Always looking to improve my methods.

To start with, I use a HVLP (high volume low pressure) sprayer purchased at Harbour Freight. I use Minwax Poly and sheen doesn't matter as I have used them all. I am almost always finishing three games at a time, set up in a row on two sets of saw horses with 2 x 4 x 8's to sit on, so when I talk quantity of poly being used, it is enough for three games. I pour the poly through a tea strainer to eliminate any "chunks". My gun has a quart container and I usually fill it three quarters full. I never use that much, but I don't want it to run dry and end up just spraying air over the boards. Using normal continuous motions I start on a side and move to the top, one board at a time before going on to the next. Light coats work best, but not too light. You want them to look wet. After each coat, I pour the unused poly back in the can and clean the sprayer. I normally wait at least two hours in between coats, but a couple of bad experiences in the past have made me slow down when finishing boards. After three coats I sand and then apply at least two more coats.

Hope this helps some of you that have been thinking about spraying poly.

Steve

[backyard fun]

J2K66, I want you to know I voted for your boards for the best of 2009. With that being said, I "stole" your design and will be finishing my set this weekend. We have a few (three that I know of) Green Bay fans here in south east central Illinois and these were a gift for one that is a friend of mine. I will post a picture of my set so you can see that your's are still the best boards.

Steve

[billm75]

When I saw your title here, I was about to say NO NO NO!!! But I wasn't thinking that you were using HVLP, just spray bombs from the store. With that HVLP setup, I can imagine it's great to work with in that method. I wish I had that setup, it'd save me a ton of time.

[J2K66]

backyard fun... steal away! I just painted some boards, that's all

Now, as far as the HVLP guns go... what type of compressor are you guys using? I only have a small pancake compressor right now, used for nailers. I'm wondering how large of a compressor I'll need to step up to make spraying poly a reality.

[Evil Elf]

How much poly do you end up using per set? I have a sprayer for my compressor but I have found that I use a ton more paint than I would rolling it.

I tried to use an airbrush, but the flow is too low and it gunks up.

[DHtcqb7]

I have a 3 gallon air compressor that I use to shoot brads or air up my tires now and then... Could I just buy an HVLP gun / containers and start spraying poly?!?!?

[derricksmash]

I have a 3 gallon air compressor that I use to shoot brads or air up my tires now and then... Could I just buy an HVLP gun / containers and start spraying poly?!?!?

i have a massive air compressor too. i have a sprayer too that i've used on decks and stuff. but i wouldn't want to use an AIR sprayer to apply poly. if you try it, let me know =)

[DHtcqb7]

I was under the impression that HVLP was pneumatic in nature... is it not? if not how is the pressure generated?

[billm75]

I was under the impression that HVLP was pneumatic in nature... is it not? if not how is the pressure generated?

HVLP is air powered, just a low pressure system. Sometimes folks will confuse it with the standard air guns that you see auto body painters using which are definitely different and high pressure.

I think once you get your spray pattern figured out it would be gravy to poly coat some boards this way (HVLP)

[backyard fun]

This is the HVLP spray equipment I purchased from Harbour Freight.

44677.gif (30.36 KiB) Viewed 625 times

I am certain you could just purchase an HVLP spray gun and the owners manual would give you instructions as to recommended compressor pressure settings if that is the direction you wanted to go.

Steve
"If you play Corhnole, you are my friend."

[NixonsCornhole]

The system that backyard is using is called a Turbine System. It uses a small motor to deliver air. Very good for fine finishes and very low over spray.

The other HVLP gun is one that is typical gravity feed and uses a air Compressor. Some require different CFM comsumption. Some where around 5 CFM at 40lbs. I think. You start out with 40 to 50lbs.@ the tank and no more than 10lbs. @ the gun.

I tried both, and use a Turbine System. I never could get the HVLP gun with the compressor to produce a fine enough finish. It can be done but I had a Turbine System already from when I done cabinets.

[Navier]

I tried searching Harbour Freight for the HVLP pictured but couldn't find it. would it be possible for you to post a link to it or item number.
thanks

[TXwarsherThrower]

I noticed yesterday that Lowes had a few different Wagner HVLP handheld units. Didnt have enough time to actually stop and look/compare, but took note that they had them.


I'll look into them more next time Im in the store, but Im sure some of yall that have better knowledge of this subject know more about them/ if they are worth it...


-adam-

[backyard fun]

Navier,

At Harbour Freight's website type in "sprayers" or item Number 44677-OVGA. They have went up since I purchased mine for $69.99. Now they are $89.99.

Steve

"If you play cornhole, you are my friend."

[NixonsCornhole]

The Wagner ones from lowes have a recall on them. I notice the sign one day while returning something. Not real sure why.