HVLP vs conventional spray gun is a kind of a topic that can get two friends engaged in a game of brutal verbal chess. Both of them have their own advantages and disadvantages. Besides, the most annoying part is that everybody has a different opinion on this matter. Some people will tell you that the conventional spray gun is the best thing that has ever been invented.
On the other hand, some people will tell you that there is no parallel to the HVLP spray gun. So, in such a situation, you have to be your own lead and get a spray gun that best suits your own needs. This kind of decision can prove to be a bit challenging especially if you are an absolute beginner and don’t know much about spray guns.
However, don’t lose heart because in this article I am about to explain the major differences as well as similarities between the two in plain English so that you can easily understand it all. So, if you are really invested in this discussion and want to get the complete picture of this matter then I suggest you read through this entire article to the very end.
HVLP Vs Conventional Spray Gun Comparison
Benefits and Drawbacks Of HVLP Spray Gun
HVLP is short for High Volume Low Pressure. It means that a high volume of air is converted into a low pressure within the spray gun. This little maneuver facilitates the emission of paint at a lower pressure.
As a result, it gives a more efficient coverage while also reducing the overhead costs. The HVLP spray gun is best known for its cost-saving and utilizes acrylic spray gun paint more efficiently. So, you don’t have to worry about overspray an area just because of high pressure within the spray gun.
However, the most apparent drawback of using a spray gun is that it is a lot more expensive than a conventional spray gun. You can expect to pay two to three hundred dollars more for an HVLP spray gun compared to a conventional spray gun.
Furthermore, due to low pressure, an HVLP spray gun does not have the capability to atomize heavier coatings including Zinc and Epoxy. So, if that is what you need a spray gun for then you must avoid an HVLP spray at all costs.
Benefits and Drawbacks Of Conventional Spray Gun
A conventional spray gun is almost the exact opposite of an HVLP spray gun. In contrast to an HVLP spray gun, a conventional spray gun creates a much higher pressure within. This high pressure is perfect for atomizing heavier coatings including Zinc and Epoxy coatings
Besides, a conventional spray gun is much cheaper than an HVLP spray gun. So, if your needs include atomizing heavier coatings on a regular basis then you must get a conventional spray gun.
However, it does have a couple of its own drawbacks that you will have to cope with if you decide to get it. For instance, the high-pressure build-up within the spray gun can result in overcoating no matter how careful you are with its handling.
As a result, you end up consuming almost double the amount of paint that you would be required to use while using an HVLP spray gun. So, this long-term overhead cost is something you will have to endure in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between HVLP and conventional spray guns?
There are a lot of differences between an HVLP spray gun and a conventional spray gun however, the most evident difference is that an HVLP spray gun atomizes paint at a much lower pressure as compared to that of a conventional spray gun. Another distinguishing difference between the two that actually sets them apart is that a conventional spray gun atomizes heavier coatings quickly whereas an HVLP spray gun can not do that. And besides, an HVLP spray gun costs much higher than a conventional spray gun.
What is the advantage of an HVLP spray gun?
An HVLP spray gun has a very long list of benefits starting with the pressure buildup within. It releases the coatings with a lower pressure so that you can get more work done in much less time and that too with more efficiency. It is also a very environmentally friendly option since it produces much less air pollution. Besides, an HVLP spray gun wastes a lot less paint than any other kind of spray gun.
Does HVLP have less overspray?
Yes, definitely! An HVLP spray gun is best known for its reduced overhead costs. It wastes a lot less spray and saves you from the trouble of over spraying the same spot and leaving out other areas. So, it is a much better kind of spray gun to work with more expensive paints.
Concluding Conventional Vs HVLP Spray Gun Comparison
So, this was all from my side. I tried my best to explain everything in simple terms so that you would be able to understand no matter the level of your expertise. And if you have read through this entire article then you must be very clear about the benefits and drawbacks of using each of the two types of spray guns.
To sum it all up, I would like to remind you that an HVLP is a newer modified version of a conventional spray gun but comes with a higher price tag. However, a conventional spray gun is best for atomizing heavier coatings such as Zinc Epoxy, etc.
Hi, I am Pete Fagerlin, carpenter by profession and working on different DIY projects is my passion. For more than a decade, it’s been my weekend hobby to dig into different tools for my favorite DIY projects which helped me to become knowledgeable about different DIY tools. With a combination of my profession and passion, I am here to collaborate with Adam Wilson to share my DIY tools knowledge with the MechanicsGear readers.