Compressor and filter Suggestions for Mini Paint Set Up.

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PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2021 6:11 pm
I think this may be only my second post in the forum. I read a lot of information here but rarely post.

I'm looking for compressor and filter suggestions for a mini paint set up. I paint and restore bicycles. I do about 1 or 2 frames per year- strictly a hobby. The past 10 years I have used a turbine sprayer with HVLP fuji knock off touch up gun. I spray Tamco clear solids, usually un-thinned. I get "ok" results with a bit too much orange peel for my tastes. I use a lot of elbow grease, wet sanding and polishing. This is not ideal for small intricate areas of a bike frame but with patience it can be done. 

Years ago I worked as an industrial model maker, I have an old, but hardly used Sata Mini Jet touch up gun, .8mm tip, circa late 80's early 90's. I was thinking it should be the perfect weapon for spraying bike frames and should give it a try, but I have no compressor or filter system. 

The mostly German literature seems to indicate air consumption at 2.8 CFM at 38 PSI. Spraying a frame is usually a 15-20 minute or so affair per coat. I'd like to keep the investment relatively small as well as the footprint due to space limitations. Could a modern mini or portable compressor be up to the task for this type of demand for spraying bikes? I am hoping this set up would help get a smoother coat of clear with less wet sanding. What else should I consider or be concerned about?

Any suggestions welcome.
thanks in advance..

here is a link to the image of the Sata mini jet operating instructions:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PGBYel ... sp=sharing



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PostPosted: Wed Sep 01, 2021 7:46 pm
I would suggest a 5 hp powered compressor with a 60-80 gal tank with a Good water trap and a filter system that includes a water filter oil filter and has a Desiccant drier.

Many may say its a bit over kill for what your doing BUT having a reliable clean air source cant be understated for any type of painting. Just because what your spraying is small doesn't mean you don't need a quality air source that's up to the Task.

Don't forget Hi flo fittings as well as its air flow you need for painting with any Paint gun not air pressure.

Plus you'll have enough of a system to paint anything you want going forward.
Dennis B.
A&P Mechanic, FCC General radio Telephone Operator
Line Maintenance A&P Mechanic and MOC Tech specialist.

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