What do I need to know about HVLP ?

[Bendix]

picked up a new compressor the other day, now i think maybe i can do something tougher than rattle canning my rrbbo bike....what do i need to know about hvlp spray guns and suitable paints? thanks!

 

[Fireproof]

I'm watching this!

 

[JLarkin]

HVLP is more for production shops who are looking to comply with VOC laws and save on materials. Best bang for the buck: http://www.harborfreight.com/touch-up-a ... 66871.html

Get an adjustable regulator for the end of it like this and you will have a nice setup: http://www.tools-plus.com/sharpe-1010.html

I have sprayed two bikes with it and it works great.

 

[dougfisk]

HVLP is more for production shops who are looking to comply with VOC laws and save on materials. Best bang for the buck: http://www.harborfreight.com/touch-up-a ... 66871.html

Get an adjustable regulator for the end of it like this and you will have a nice setup: http://www.tools-plus.com/sharpe-1010.html

I have sprayed two bikes with it and it works great.

JL - how big is your compressor to operate that gun? Because of garage wiring constraints, I am somewhat limited in amperage draw. I painted cars extensively in the 70's and am not conversant with HVLP.

I too am watching this thread. Maybe I should start another thread called "what is the optimal bicycle painting setup?"

 

[JLarkin]

3hp, 20 gal. Mine is 220 volt, 25 yrs old Campbell Hausfeld. It runs everything I have except an impact wrench and a sandblaster; in the suburbs I have little use for either. The compressor only needed a double pole 20a breaker and I wired it with 12-2 Romex. You really don't need 12-3 unless you have some lying around.

 

[Rockit!]

HVLP is more for production shops who are looking to comply with VOC laws and save on materials. Best bang for the buck: http://www.harborfreight.com/touch-up-a ... 66871.html

Get an adjustable regulator for the end of it like this and you will have a nice setup: http://www.tools-plus.com/sharpe-1010.html

I have sprayed two bikes with it and it works great.

I bought that exact model for 9.95 because I needed it for one job, praying that it would last that long....it worked GREAT for 3 years, spraying everything from paint, to shellac, to ceramics glaze!!! Finally I accidentally killed it by dissolving the o-rings with acetone... :roll:

In general the HVLP guns are for larger jobs, like painting cars, and they're pretty pricey! If you're only gonna be painting bikes I would highly recommend a smaller touch-up style gun. I've done larger things than bikes quickly and efficiently with them.