At Spray Plant UK, we believe that choosing the right spray equipment makes all the difference, no matter the job. Whether you're a beginner or an industry professional, Graco offer a range of airless paint and plaster spray equipment designed for varying project demands. Today, we’re focusing on our favourite Graco units for different levels of work, from entry-level tasks to heavy-duty applications. Let's explore which machines are best for you, based on the type of work you do and the materials you need to spray.
1. Entry-Level Airless: Graco GXFF
The Graco GXFF is ideal for beginners or professionals focusing on smaller projects or touch-ups. Specifically designed for fine-finish work, it’s perfect for those working on trim, doors, cabinets, and furniture. Its lightweight and portable design allows for easy transport and setup, making it a go-to for jobs that require frequent movement or adjustments.
Materials It Can Spray:
- Water-based lacquers
- Varnishes
- Stains
- Enamels
Key Features:
- ProXChange Pump: A quick-change pump system that reduces downtime by allowing you to swap out pumps easily, ensuring you stay productive on the job.
- Fine Finish Tip: Delivers a smooth, professional finish without overspray, perfect for detailed work on cabinetry or furniture.
- Compact Design: The lightweight frame makes it incredibly easy to carry around, ideal for contractors constantly on the move.
The Graco GXFF is the perfect entry-level option for those needing precision in their work without the hefty price tag or learning curve of larger machines.
2. Professional Airless: Graco 595 or 695
Stepping up into more demanding jobs, the Graco 595 and Graco 695 Airless spray units are fantastic for professional painters who need a bit more power and versatility. These models are built to handle medium to large residential or commercial internal and exterior jobs with ease, offering more power and flow than the entry-level GXFF.
Materials It Can Spray:
- Acrylics
- Latex paints
- Primers
- Epoxies
Key Features:
- Endurance EXTREME Pump: Built for longevity, these pumps are highly durable, allowing for spraying thicker materials without excessive wear, delivering the longest life of any sprayer to date.
- SmartControl: This system monitors the pressure during spraying, ensuring a consistent spray pattern without pressure fluctuations—crucial for delivering professional-grade finishes.
- Easy Out Pump Filter: Reduces the risk of clogs and allows for faster cleaning, which is essential for high-volume jobs.
The 595 is often favoured for residential projects, while the 695 provides the extra power needed for larger commercial projects. Both models allow professionals to handle a range of coatings, from basic primers to thicker latex paints, making them a versatile choice for those taking on varied jobs.
3. Heavy-Duty Airless: Graco Mark V
For the toughest and most demanding projects, the Graco Mark V is the ultimate workhorse. It’s designed for industrial-grade tasks, including large-scale commercial work and jobs that require the application of heavy coatings. If you're dealing with high-volume, high-pressure projects, the Mark V is built to deliver.
Materials It Can Spray:
- High-build or chemical resistant coatings
- Elastomeric materials
- Fire retardant or Intumescent materials
- Heavy-duty industrial paints
- Plaster and textured materials
Key Features:
- Higher Output: With its ability to deliver up to 1.6 gallons per minute, the Mark V is perfect for large areas and thick materials, allowing for faster completion of high-demand jobs.
- SmartControl 3.0: The advanced SmartControl technology on the Mark V ensures even pressure distribution, vital for maintaining a consistent spray pattern, especially when using heavy-duty materials.
- Durability and Strength: This machine is built for extreme durability, with features like the Chromex rod and stainless-steel sleeve that extend the life of the pump, even in tough environments.
When you're dealing with large surface areas that need thick, protective coatings, the Mark V is unbeatable, offering speed and durability for jobs that other sprayers simply can’t handle.
4. Fine Finish Units: Graco GXFF or HVLP TurboForce
For those specialising in high-end finishing jobs, whether in woodworking or cabinetry, fine finish is crucial. The Graco GXFF, mentioned earlier as an entry-level option, also shines in the fine-finish category thanks to its ability to spray light coatings evenly.
For even more precision, the HVLP TurboForce is another excellent option. HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) technology is designed for situations where overspray must be minimised, and fine detail is crucial.
Materials It Can Spray:
- Lacquers
- Varnishes
- Stains
- Enamels
- Polyurethanes
Key Features of the HVLP TurboForce:
- Turbine-Powered Precision: The turbine motor provides precise air pressure control, allowing for incredibly smooth finishes without wasting material.
- FlexLiner Bag System: This feature reduces downtime and cleaning by allowing for quick swaps between materials and easy cleanup.
- Adjustable Spray Fan: Offers full control over spray patterns, making it easy to achieve the exact finish you want, whether you're working on intricate mouldings or broad surfaces.
The HVLP TurboForce is the go-to machine for professionals seeking a flawless, glass-like finish on delicate surfaces. Its precision and control make it ideal for detailed work that requires the highest level of quality.
Conclusion
From small touch-ups to massive industrial projects, Graco has the right machine for every job. The Graco GXFF is an excellent choice for beginners and fine-finish work, while the 595 and 695 models are robust enough for medium to large residential or commercial projects. If you're tackling the most demanding heavy-duty jobs, the Mark V provides the power and durability to handle the toughest coatings. And when fine detail matters, both the GXFF and the HVLP TurboForce deliver the precision and smooth finish you need.
At Spray Plant UK, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect equipment for your project. If you’re not sure which is the best machine for you or you are spraying a material which you haven’t sprayed before, get in touch. We can help.
With the right Graco sprayer in hand, you’ll be able to tackle any job with confidence and efficiency.