Ransburg No.2 Electrostatic spray gun

Electrostatic spray painting can reduce the problems of uneven coverage and overspray that result from using a regular spray painter. The paint is electrostatically charged in a couple of different ways. One type of system applies a negative electric charge to the paint while it is in the reservoir. Other systems apply the charge in the barrel of the spray painter gun. Thepaint is propelled through the gun, rubbing against the side, and gaining a static electric charge.

Since the paint particles all have the same charge they repel each other. This helps to distribute the paint particles evenly and get uniform coverage. Usually the object being painted is metal and grounded but almost any product can be finished electrostatically. A metal object may need to be placed behind the object to create a ground or it can be sprayed with a conductive primer. The paint particles have a charge so they are attracted to the opposite charge of the object being painted. This makes the particles less likely to stay in the air.

Electrostatic spray painting has distinct advantages. It creates a strong bond. It also covers a three dimensional object more evenly with good edge and wrap around coverage. It saves paint by using the least amount of paint since it has a high tranfser efficiency. Also the finish will look better because it has a uniform paint thickness.

There are some disadvantages as well. Material to be sprayed must be conductive or made conductive for bonding. Care has to be taken with this equipment as guns can be delicate and bulky. It requires the use of grounding as improper usage can be a safety or fire hazard. Lastly it is more expensive to apply than regular spray painting

The equipment that normally comes with an electrostatic spray unit includes a spray gun, air and paint hoses, and a grounding cable. You will also two types of adapters. A round tip is for irregularly shaped objects and the flat tip adapter is for painting large flat objects.

In addition to the equipment you will need some other materials. Get tape for taping off areas not to be painted. a drop cloth and bucket for mixing paint will be needed. Choose the paint that you will use. Don’t forget personal protection items.

Here are the steps:

Select the Paint

Choose the right material to be sprayed. Your choice of paint will depend on the appearance you want and the item to bepainted.

Add the Paint

Load the paint to be sprayed into the bucket.

Test the Sprayer

Turn on the spray and prime the pump. Do a test spray to check that you have an even fan pattern. Now turn on the electrostactic and do another test of the fan pattern.

Spray the Object

Spray the object using even strokes and stepping back to checking for the coverage. When you are through painting double check the finish.

Clean up the Sprayer

When you are finished unscrew the tip and dump the excess material into the bucket or a waste pail. Clean out the sprayer thoroughly.

Powder Coating

If a powder is used instead of a liquid paint this process is called powder coating. This is a process commonly used on things like bike frames and metal file cabinets.

Safety First

When using this equipment you should take safety precautions. Work in a ventilated area where the heaters have been turned off. Protect yourself by using eye and ear protection along with clothing that covers most of your skin. These sprayers are under enormous pressure so never point the spray gun at yourself or anyone else.